IGCAT,update

 

PRESS RELEASE Cap Bon recommended for the title of World Region of Gastronomy 2028 8 May 2026

An international jury composed of four international experts accompanied by IGCAT’s President, Diane Dodd PhD, considered the application of Cap Bon region for the title World

IGCAT:International jury recommends Banat for the European Region of Gastronomy 2028 title

 

PRESS RELEASE Banat recommended for the title of European Region of Gastronomy 2028 17 April 2026

An international jury comprising of four international experts, accompanied by IGCAT’s President, Diane Dodd PhD considered the application of Banat region for the title European

IGCAT Newsletter First Quarter 2026

 

IGCAT Newsletter First Quarter 2026 IGCAT VOICE

In the heart of rural kitchens, under the shade of mango trees or beside open fires, women stir more than just pots. They stir memory, resilience, identity and the soul of a community. Across Africa and beyond, women have long been the custodians of culinary heritage, weaving together ingredients, stories, and healing traditions. Yet despite their central role in shaping gastronomy, their voices remain underrepresented in the policies that govern food systems, tourism, and cultural development.

IGCAT newsletter

 

PRESS RELEASE 19 March 2026 Looking for your next unforgettable foodie experience? Discover the Top 10 Foodie Websites 2026, curated by IGCAT to guide you through extraordinary culinary

IGCAT:International jury approves Jeddah-Taif for the World Region of Gastronomy 2027 title

 

PRESS RELEASE Jeddah-Taif approved for the title of World Region of Gastronomy 2027 5 February 2026

An international jury composed of four international experts accompanied by IGCAT’s President, Diane Dodd PhD, considered the application of Jeddah-Taif region for the title World Region of Gastronomy 2027. After reviewing the bid book: Jeddah-Taif, Everlasting & Abundant, submitted on 4 December 2025, they took part in a jury visit to the region from 1-4 February 2026. The aim of the visit was to assess the region’s appropriateness and readiness to host the title in 2027 and to prepare a comprehensive report to be sent to the stakeholders within two weeks.

INTERNATIONAL INSTITUTE OF GASTRONOMY,CULTURE, ARTS AND TOURISM,newsletter

 

IGCAT Newsletter Fourth Quarter 2025 IGCAT VOICE

The European Young Chef Award (EYCA) has grown over the years into a unique platform that celebrates talent, creativity, and culinary heritage across Europe. From its very first editions in Catalonia (2016), it has inspired young chefs to explore the richness of regional cuisines while fostering innovation and professional growth, therefore it is an honour to bring this competition back “home”. For participants, the EYCA, as organised by IGCAT, is more than a competition: it is an opportunity to connect with peers, learn from experienced mentors, and bring their own culinary stories to life.

IGCAT update

 

PRESS RELEASE 27 November 2025 Ioannis Liapakis from Crete European Region of Gastronomy 2026 was awarded European Young Chef for 2025 on 27 November. With the dish Erevinthos, Ioannis impressed the international jury, chaired by Xavier Pellicer - a leading figure in plant-based fine dining, from Catalonia, World Region of Gastronomy awarded 2025.

IGCAT:Nordland recommended for the title of European Region of Gastronomy 2028

 

PRESS RELEASE Nordland recommended for the title of European Region of Gastronomy 2028 14 November 2025

An international jury comprising of four international experts, accompanied by IGCAT’s President, Diane Dodd PhD considered the application of Nordland region for the title European Region of Gastronomy 2028. After reviewing the bid book: Nordland: Seasons Under The Light, submitted on 17 April 2025, the jury visited the region from 10-14 November 2025. The aim of the visit was to assess the region’s appropriateness and readiness to host the title in 2028.The jury will prepare a comprehensive report with recommendations to support the region’s journey.

IGCAT,update

PRESS RELEASE Celebrating Food Stories Across the Globe Food Film Menu 2025 27 October 2025 The Food Film Menu 2025 winners were officially announced at an inspiring Award Ceremony held in Gozo, Malta, on 27 October 2025, hosted by Gozo, European Region of Gastronomy 2026. The event gathered representatives from the Regions of Gastronomy, filmmakers, local and international experts at Ta’ Frenc Restaurant to celebrate the power of food, culture, and film in connecting communities. The ceremony was accompanied by a program of gastronomic and cultural experiences organised by the Ministry for Gozo and Planning. Participants enjoyed a rich cultural itinerary, including a visit to the Cittadella Visitors’ Centre, wine tasting at Tal-Massar Winery, and an excursion to Ta’ Pinu Basilica, DwejraInl and Sea, and the Xwejni Salt pans, showcasing Gozo’s deep connection between land, heritage, and cuisine.

IGCAT update

 

IGCAT Newsletter Third Quarter 2025 IGCAT VOICE

As Vice-President of IGCAT, I feel privileged to have witnessed and supported our organisation’s and our community’s evolution for over a decade. This year we celebrate ten years of the European Regions of Gastronomy, the World Regions of Gastronomy established as a global movement, and more than a decade since the Mediterranean Diet was recognised by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage. From the very beginning, IGCAT was right to insist that culture is a key element when talking about food and gastronomy.

IGCAT update

 

PRESS RELEASE IGCAT’s 30th Platform Meeting of the World Regions of Gastronomy successfully hosted in Catalonia 24-26 September 2025 The 30th Platform Meeting of the World Regions of Gastronomy took place in Catalonia, 24–26 September 2025, gathering representatives from more than 30 awarded and candidate gastronomic regions, international experts, and key stakeholders committed to harnessing food as a driver for sustainability, education, and cultural exchange.

IGCAT Newsletter Second Quarter 2025

 

IGCAT Newsletter Second Quarter 2025 IGCAT VOICE

The term regenerative has emerged as a powerful global benchmark, an aspirational standard that forward-thinking stewards of our planet are striving to understand, embody, and weave into their lives, work, and worldview. From chef to farmer, the connection completes the circle - a non-extractive cycle of giving, receiving, and restoring. Though I wasn’t consciously aware of it in my youth, the values of a regenerative life were instinctively woven into my upbringing, nurtured by the spirit of the Northern Rivers in Australia.

Imagine a region of lush volcanic landscapes, where mountains meet the sea, giving rise to nutrient-rich soils, pristine rivers, and thriving ecosystems filled with diverse flora and fauna - all living in harmony. This is my home. The Northern Rivers, at Australia's most easterly point, meets the Pacific Ocean and welcomes millions of travellers each year. Our community works diligently to preserve this natural beauty through shared values and mindful choices, embracing a regenerative connection between agriculture, gastronomy, and agritourism.

IGCAT update

 

*ENGLISH VERSION BELOW* NOTA DE PRENSA Manabí es oficialmente nombrada Región Mundial de la Gastronomía 2026 27 de junio de 2025 El Instituto Internacional de Gastronomía, Cultura, Arte y Turismo (IGCAT) ha otorgado a Manabí el prestigioso título de Región Mundial de la Gastronomía 2026, en reconocimiento a su destacado compromiso con la celebración de sus ricas tradiciones gastronómicas, su patrimonio cultural y un turismo sostenible impulsado por las comunidades. El premio está alineado con los valores fundamentales de IGCAT: fomentar la colaboración regional, salvaguardar la diversidad culinaria y cultural, y promover la innovación hacia un futuro más sostenible e inclusivo.

IGCAT:Central Dalmatia recommended for the title of European Region of Gastronomy 2027

 

PRESS RELEASE Central Dalmatia recommended for the title of European Region of Gastronomy 2027 23 May 2025

An international jury of five esteemed experts covering different sectors (including education, primary sector, biodiversity, culture, hospitality and tourism), accompanied by IGCAT’s President, Dr. Diane Dodd, convened to evaluate Central Dalmatia’s application for the title of European Region of Gastronomy 2027.

IGCAT update

 

PRESS RELEASE IGCAT’s 2025 World Food Gift Challenge Awards 12 Outstanding Products in Sicily 9 May 2025 In celebration of food heritage and cultural identity, IGCAT’s 6th World Food Gift Challenge recognised 12 exceptional food and food-related craft products, selected by an international jury of experts. Hosted by Sicily, European Region of Gastronomy awarded 2025, the competition brought international recognition to artisanal producers whose unique gifts represent the culinary and cultural richness of their territories. Held in the historic city of Catania, the World Food Gift Challenge 2025 took place on 9 May at the magnificent Palazzo Biscari. The competition gathered 34 food and craft gifts from acclaimed Regions of Gastronomy, including: Aseer World Region of Gastronomy 2024; Catalonia World Region of Gastronomy 2025; Manabí World Region of Gastronomy 2026; Menorca European Region of Gastronomy 2022; Trondheim-Trøndelag European Region of Gastronomy 2022; Saimaa European Region of Gastronomy 2024; Sicily European Region of Gastronomy 2025; Gozo European Region of Gastronomy 2026; Kvarner European Region of Gastronomy 2026; Crete European Region of Gastronomy 2026; Harghita European Region of Gastronomy 2027; and Dobrogea candidate European Region of Gastronomy 2029.

IGCAT newsletter

 

IGCAT Newsletter First Quarter 2025 IGCAT VOICE

Sawa Taste of Tunisia recognized among Top 10 Foodie Websites for two consecutive years: 2024 and 2025 We are incredibly honoured to share that Sawa Taste of Tunisia has been recognized as one of the Top 10 Foodie Websites for 2025 by IGCAT at the prestigious Top Websites for Foodie Travelers Award Ceremony in Harghita Region. This recognition, for the second year in a row, celebrates our ongoing commitment to showcasing Tunisia’s rich culinary heritage, blending authentic flavours, local stories, and immersive gourmet experiences.

Being included among the top foodie websites globally is more than just an award; it’s a testament to the vibrant food culture of Tunisia and the dedication of our team to share it with the world. The recognition highlights the growing interest in Tunisia as a must-visit destination for culinary travelers seeking meaningful connections through food and culture. This milestone strengthens our mission to create unforgettable culinary journeys that support local artisans, chefs, and producers while promoting sustainable tourism. It also opens new opportunities for collaboration and inspires us to continue curating unique gastronomic experiences that celebrate Tunisia’s diverse flavours. We extend our heartfelt thanks to IGCAT, our partners, and everyone who has supported Sawa Taste of Tunisia. Your encouragement drives us to continue telling Tunisia’s culinary story, one taste at a time. Stay tuned as we keep exploring, tasting, and sharing the best of Tunisia’s gastronomy with the world! Lamia Temimi Sawa Taste of Tunisia

News from IGCAT and the World Regions of Gastronomy