Salamanca to Host International Gastronomy Summit: An Opportunity to Discover Castile-León Treasures

Salamanca is set to become the epicenter of haute cuisine on May 19 and 20, 2025, as it welcomes the International Gastronomy Summit of Castile-León under the theme A Monumental Cuisine. This prestigious gathering will bring together more than twenty internationally renowned chefs, including culinary Spanish icons such as Nacho Manzano (Casa Marcial, 3 Michelin stars, Asturias), Paco Morales (Noor, 3 Michelin stars, Córdoba), Oriol Castro (Disfrutar, 2 Michelin stars, Barcelona) or Carme Ruscalleda and Raül Balam (Moments, 1 Michelin star, Barcelona).

The summit will be held at the historic Colegio Arzobispo Fonseca, with additional activities taking place in various heritage locations throughout the city. The goal is to merge the excellence of haute cuisine with Salamanca’s rich artistic and historical legacy, celebrating the traditions of Castile- León while embracing the evolution of modern gastronomy.

The province of Salamanca stands out for its exceptional food products, protected by the prestigious Denomination of Origin and Protected Geographical Indication seals. The legendary jamón ibérico Guijuelo PDO, a treasure of Salamanca, is a symbol of Spain’s charcuterie excellence, celebrated for its delicate texture and rich flavors. Another local gem is the Lenteja de la Armuña PGI, a lentil of unparalleled quality that has earned its place in some of the most traditional and innovative dishes of Castile and León. Salamanca also has two wine DOs (Denominations of Origin): Arribes and Sierras de Salamanca, known mainly for their reds made from indigenous grapes such as Juan García and Rufete.

What to eat in Castile-León

Beyond Salamanca, Castile-León boasts an extraordinary variety of protected products that highlight the region’s gastronomic richness. The bold and flavorful Queso Zamorano PDO, made from the milk of native Churra and Castellana sheep, brings the essence of Zamora’s pastures to every bite. Cheese lovers will also delight in the intense and blue-veined Queso de Valdeón PGI, a masterpiece from the Picos de Europa, while the delicate Queso Los Beyos PGI made from cow’s, sheep’s, or goat’s milk, offers a creamy, slightly tangy experience that captures the essence of mountain cheesemaking.

There are also some meaty temptations! The hearty and rustic Botillo del Bierzo PGI, a traditional cured meat packed with history, tells the story of León’s culinary traditions. The irresistible Torrezno de Soria IGP, with its crispy exterior and juicy interior, has become one of the most beloved delicacies of the region. The iconic Morcilla de Burgos PGI, packed with rice and spices, offers a taste of one of Spain’s most recognizable black puddings. And the Cecina de León PGI, a smoked and cured beef delicacy, provides a savory experience that reflects the region’s time-honored preservation techniques.

For those with a sweet tooth, Castile-León has Mantecadas de Astorga PGI, buttery pastries that melt in your mouth. And let’s not forget the butter Mantequilla de Soria PDO, with its creamy texture and rich, velvety taste, embodies the excellence of Soria’s dairy tradition, making it an essential ingredient in both sweet and savory dishes.

A paradise for those who love wine

Wine aficionados will find a true paradise in Castile-León, home to some of Spain’s most prestigious wine regions. The world-famous Ribera del Duero DO captivates with its robust and fruity red wines, while Rueda DO shines with its fresh and aromatic whites made from the Verdejo grape. The deep, complex reds of Toro DO carry centuries of tradition in every sip, and the elegant Bierzo DO wines, crafted from the Mencía grape, reflect the unique character of the region’s mountainous landscapes. Cigales DO, long known for its vibrant rosés, is now making waves with its refined reds, while Arlanza DO offers distinct and expressive wines that contribute to the reputation of Castile-León’s winemaking tradition.

With this incredible showcase of culinary excellence, the International Gastronomy Summit in Salamanca will not only bring together the greatest chefs of our time but also provide the perfect stage to celebrate the authentic flavors of Castile-León.