Santa Cruz Bids for 2027 Spanish Gastronomy Capital Title
Santa Cruz de Tenerife is bidding for the first time to become the Spanish Capital of Gastronomy for 2027, aiming to boost its economy and tourism through its culinary scene.
For the first time ever, Santa Cruz de Tenerife is hoping to be named the Spanish Capital of Gastronomy for 2027. The city plans to submit its official bid next June. According to Carmen Pérez, CEO of the Development Society, this move aims to establish Santa Cruz as a leading food destination in Spain. The winner will be announced at the next Fitur tourism fair, and city officials believe this recognition would significantly boost Santa Cruz's economy and tourism.
The Spanish Capital of Gastronomy (CEG) award has been given out since 2012. It's organized by the Spanish Hospitality Federation and Spanish tourism journalists. The award recognizes cities that excel at using their food culture to attract tourists. Past winners include Oviedo and Alicante, with Jerez holding the title this year. Food plays a huge role in Spanish tourism; figures from the Ministry of Tourism show that 15% of visitors come to Spain specifically for its food and wine.
Santa Cruz's plan to win the title builds on two years of work with its 'Degusta Santa Cruz Club' program. Thanks to this initiative, along with talented local chefs and high-quality local ingredients, the city has already taken part in major national and international food events like San Sebastián Gastronomika and Madrid Fusión. CEO Pérez explained that if Santa Cruz wins, it would host many culinary events, galas, workshops, and festivals featuring famous chefs. This, in turn, would boost local and 'zero-kilometre' (locally sourced) produce.
Santa Cruz already has a strong food scene, with restaurants and chefs holding prestigious awards like Michelin stars and Repsol Suns. It has even hosted the Repsol Gala. The Development Society believes these achievements show the city is well-suited for the title. Additionally, the City Council, through the Development Society, will continue promoting 'chicharrera' (local Santa Cruz) cuisine at events like GastroCanarias this year. This is part of a wider plan to boost tourism, which also involves making Santa Cruz a stronger MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) destination. An office dedicated to this will soon be put out to tender.