Costa Rican gastronomy is strengthened at the IV Gastronomic Meeting and the I Women´s Meeting 2024

The Costa Rica Convention Center will be the venue for the IV Gastronomic Meeting and the I Gastronomic Meeting of Women 2024, an unprecedented event that will take place from September 3 to 5, 2024, within the framework of EXPHORE.

This event is a joint initiative of the National Association of Chefs of Costa Rica (ANCH), with the support of the Costa Rican Tourism Institute (ICT), and has become a vital platform for the celebration, promotion and evolution of Costa Rican gastronomy.

"This meeting of culinary professionals is not only a showcase to show the best of our gastronomy, but also a crucial space to sow the seed of knowledge and expand the horizons of culinary education in Costa Rica. It is a unique opportunity to bring together key players in the industry, unify efforts and chart the path to professionalization, essential to position Costa Rica as a leading destination in gastronomic tourism," said Karol Alfaro Ceciliano, a specialist in gastronomic tourism, communicator and organizer of the event. She also stressed the importance of promoting sustainable and healthy cuisine in the country.

At the Costa Rican Tourism Institute (ICT), we are pleased to support an event that showcases the evolution of Costa Rican gastronomy and its flavors.

“Gastronomy is one of the main motivators for international tourists who visit us and for national tourists who travel to see the different regions of the country. For this reason, this meeting will allow us to innovate and improve the Costa Rican tourism product, which also consists of a pleasant experience for travelers to try 100% Costa Rican dishes and recipes,” said Rafael Quesada, head of the Advertising and Research Department at ICT.

During these three days, attendees will have the opportunity to participate in more than 20 presentations and discussions, led by national and international experts who will address key topics such as sustainability, culinary innovation and emerging trends in the industry, designed to encourage interaction and networking among participants.

Women chefs reinforce sustainable gastronomy

Carlos Rodríguez Rivera, president of the National Association of Chefs of Costa Rica, underlines the relevance of the 1st Women's Gastronomic Meeting, a novelty in this edition that seeks to give visibility and recognition to the fundamental role that women play in the industry.

"We are very excited to celebrate the first 'Women's Gastronomic Meeting.' It is a recognition of the extraordinary contributions that women are making in all aspects of gastronomy, from production to creation and teaching. This event marks a milestone in our history and we hope it inspires future generations,” she said.

The Women's Gastronomic Meeting not only celebrates culinary art, but also reaffirms the commitment of the Costa Rican culinary community to promoting healthy eating and sustainability. This commitment is reflected in the participation of leading women from the public and private sectors, including representatives from INAMU, INA, the Costa Rican Chamber of Pork Producers, the Food Bank, as well as content creators and industry advisors.

The event will feature the participation of prominent exponents such as chef Sebas Galluci, one of the five best in Latin America in the art of pizza. Also present will be chefs Henry Quesada, Kid Mey Chan and Aldo Elizondo, from the renowned Costa Rican restaurant Conservatorium, known as an authentic gastronomic laboratory.

These chefs will offer an innovative perspective on how to transform the kitchen into a healthy space.

The ambassador of Costa Rican gastronomy, Santiago Fernández, from Silvestre, will address essential topics such as gastronomy with identity, while Diego Mondragón, chef of the Enboca restaurant and awarded a Michelin star in Barcelona for his restaurant MAE, will share his experience and life story.

In addition, Merryam Alfaro Ceciliano, nutritionist and food technologist from NutriMe, will provide her valuable perspective on nutrition issues such as sustainable practices, healthy eating, good management of solid food waste, among other topics.

Chefs such as Marlon Acuña, who will speak about the cuisine of the south of the country, and Mónica Peñaranda, along with Sara Villavicencio, will stand out for their entrepreneurial ventures. Edgardo Gamboa will speak about innovative ecosystems, further enriching this event.

Additionally, chefs Paul Valerio and Saúl Umaña, great exponents of Costa Rican gastronomy, will share their knowledge and experience, making this meeting an essential space for learning and reflection for all actors in the culinary sector.

Details of the Meeting:
Dates: September 3 to 5, 2024.
Time: 11:00 am to 7:00 pm
Location: Costa Rica Convention Center (Heredia Hall)