Tenerife Partners With Basque Culinary Center to Elevate Island Gastronomy
The Tenerife Island Council has partnered with the Basque Culinary Center through 2028 to elevate the region's hospitality standards and promote local ingredients through specialized professional training.
The hospitality industry in the Canary Islands is set to reach new heights thanks to a major training partnership between the Basque Culinary Center and the Tenerife Island Council. Running through 2028, this collaboration aims to boost the island’s competitiveness by sharing expert technical knowledge and highlighting local ingredients.
This initiative is part of a broader trend in Spanish tourism: using specialization to stand out. By training local teachers and professionals to the high standards of the renowned San Sebastián-based institution, Tenerife is improving its culinary scene and supporting the local supply chain. This "gastro-diplomacy" was recently on display in San Sebastián, where a team of Tenerife chefs introduced students to unique local products like gofio, black pork, honey, and regional wines.
The training schedule for the remainder of the year includes twelve modules. These are split into two formats: an online program covering skills like baking, ice cream making, and cocktail preparation, and an upcoming in-person program focused on front-of-house service. These efforts build on the success of 2026, which saw 100 professionals across the island participate in workshops on pastry arts and beverage innovation.
For the Island Council, this project is a long-term investment in sustainable tourism. By prioritizing service quality and a deep understanding of local ingredients, Tenerife is strengthening its reputation as a premier gastronomic destination and ensuring the industry remains resilient in a competitive market.