The prestigious James Beard Foundation in New York proved once again the perfect stage to showcase the flavours of South Aegean, European Region of Gastronomy awarded 2019.
As part of the Taste the Seasons programme developed by the region for its title year, on 1 May 2019 Aegean gastronomy was promoted to the American audience for the third consecutive year at the International: South Aegean Feast event, and enchanted the palates of specialised journalists in gastronomy and gastronomic tourism.
Delightful dishes based on simple and authentic products from the islands were prepared by the skilful hands of chefs and South Aegean ambassadors Konstantinos Bouyouris, member of the Dodecanese-Cyclades Chefs’ Club, Hippocratis Anagnostou, Athenagoras Kostakos, Dimitris Pamporis and Dimitris Rizogalas.
“We are very proud that the South Aegean has managed to conquer the international stage, as it is the first Greek region to cross the threshold of the James Beard Foundation for the third consecutive year” said Governor of the South Aegean Region, Mr. George Hatzimarkos. “The South Aegean proves to have consolidated its position on the world map of gastronomy and is now standing in equal measure next to Europe’s largest gastronomic destinations. This is also the reward for the excellent work done by all our associates” he continued.
Local ingredients used included South Aegean seafood, meat, hilopites (traditional Greek pasta), oil and herbs, masterfully combined into surprising dishes containing all the extraordinary flavours of the Aegean diet.
About the European Region of Gastronomy
Candidate and awarded Regions of Gastronomy from Europe, guided by IGCAT, are working together to raise awareness about the importance of their cultural and food uniqueness; stimulate creativity and gastronomic innovation; educate for better nutrition; improve sustainable tourism standards; highlight distinctive food cultures; and strengthen community well-being.
About IGCAT
IGCAT aims to empower local communities by raising awareness of the importance to safeguard and promote distinct food, culture, arts and sustainable tourism assets. This is essential to balance against globalised food trends that are impacting on our planet, health and local economies.
IGCAT is a non-profit institute established in 2012, working with regional stakeholder consortiums in the fields of gastronomy, culture, arts and tourism. It counts on the expertise of a worldwide network of experts and works in partnership with specialised intergovernmental organisations.
IGCAT provides the Region of Gastronomy Award and is the official secretariat for the European Region of Gastronomy Platform. Furthermore, the Institute has developed the European Young Chef Award the Local Food Gift Challenge, the Top Visitor Experience and the Food Film Menu.
3 May 2019
