Nearly 150 chefs from across Spain will attend the Suns of the Repsol Guide promotional gala, one of the most prestigious awards in Spanish gastronomy, in the city of Alicante. The event takes place February 27 at the ADDA, marking a milestone achieved through collaborative effort between the Generalitat Valenciana, the Provincial Council, and the Alicante City Council. Together they orchestrated this initiative, moving it from the Basque Country three years ago to establish Alicante as a national gastronomic hub.
The cooperation agreement between the three institutions and the Repsol Guide was unveiled yesterday at Santa Bárbara Castle in Alicante, which will host a series of gastronomy-related activities during the period.
In the Community of Valencia, there are 54 participating restaurants offering a total of 81 variations of tasting menus in the region, including 26 in the province and 7 in the city of Alicante. This remarkable figure reflects a gastronomic renaissance, especially in Marina Alta, according to María Ritter, director of the Repsol Guide, who spoke during the presentation ceremony.
We did not hesitate when they invited us to speak, and we are pleased that Alicante has become a key location for high-quality tourism. The ambassadorial chefs, the infrastructure, and the support from institutions create a strong foundation for this initiative.
One of the stated goals is to involve the community so the event feels inclusive and celebratory for everyone, a true citizen’s festival, as described by the organizers.
Regional Tourism Secretary Francesc Colomer commented that Alicante was chosen as a flagship for recognizing a city and province with exceptional gastronomy, talent, and tradition. He noted the sacrifices made to remain a reference at national and international levels and highlighted how the destination’s gastronomy is a cornerstone of its tourism appeal.
Colomer added that the event serves as extra motivation for young talents, underscoring gastronomy as a viable future career. He emphasized that the celebration honors hard work and dedication, with the belief that the labor behind the scene precedes any visible triumph. The aim is to reinforce Alicante as a premier gastronomic tourism destination.
If the president of the Alicante Provincial Council, Carlos Mazón, spoke for the region, he stressed the capacity to reinvent and elevate Alicante cuisine. He pointed to growing attractions, quality, and innovation that have positioned the province as a national reference. Mazón praised the determination and excellence of Alicante’s professionals and business leaders who drive this progress.
Speaking at the event, the mayor of Alicante, Louis Barcala, described the gala as a recognition of the city’s excellent hospitality industry. He highlighted the ongoing pursuit of culinary excellence and the defense of core strengths in product quality, service, and professionalism. Barcala also hinted at forthcoming editions of Alicante Gastronómica and the city’s role as the host of this major international benchmark, reinforcing Alicante as a top destination for gastronomy.
Deputy Mayor and Chair of the Alicante City & Beach Tourist Board, Mari Carmen Sanchez, stressed that Alicante’s culinary richness is a cornerstone in promoting tourism, with signature rice dishes standing out. Hosting the Suns Repsol gala in the city underscores the industry’s importance and promises a world-class event that brings together the best of Spanish gastronomy.
The attending chefs celebrated the event as a chance to elevate Alicante’s culinary profile on the national stage. Kiko Moya of L’Escaleta in Cocentaina described the opportunity as a testament to the profession’s significance in the region, expressing belief in Alicante’s growing influence.
María José San Román of Monastrell and Sustainable Sun called the news a dream realized. She recalled attending previous galas in the Basque Country and welcomed the prospect of holding the ceremony in Alicante, praising Repsol Guide for its credible and evolving philosophy. She added that there is a desire for more female participation, recognizing that women make up half of the hospitality workforce and should have equal opportunities in these high-profile events.
The chef, known for an optimistic outlook, expressed a drive to excel and a hope for future recognition. She noted that the work showcased in the guide over many years is reflected in this moment, and the team remains committed to continuous improvement, whatever the outcome may be.
With this momentum, Alicante’s culinary scene is poised to attract even greater attention, attracting national and international visitors who seek top-tier dining experiences and a vibrant, innovative gastronomic culture. The Suns Repsol gala in Alicante marks a turning point that could reshape the region’s culinary map for years to come, signaling a bright future for chefs, restaurateurs, and culinary students alike. [citation: Repsol Guide]