The vibrant city of Valencia, renowned as the birthplace of the iconic dish Paella, has been announced as the host of The World’s 50 Best Restaurants 2023 awards. The prestigious event, organized by 50 Best, will take place in June 2023 and will bring together the crème de la crème of the culinary world.
Valencia will showcase the epitome of haute cuisine during the month-long celebrations. The program promises a series of remarkable events that have become synonymous with 50 Best Restaurants, including the enlightening thought-leadership forum #50BestTalks. Additionally, a series of collaborative dining experiences called 50 Best Signature Sessions, will be open to the public, allowing food enthusiasts to indulge in extraordinary culinary creations. The Chefs’ Feast will present the finest produce and cooking from the Spanish region, while the awards ceremony and countdown will be the highlight of the event. Notably, esteemed chefs from around the world will share their expertise with local culinary students through an educational event organized by 50 Best. The exact date of the awards ceremony will be announced in the upcoming months.
Valencia’s ascent as a top international gastronomic destination has been meteoric in recent years, bolstered by various accolades and events that have celebrated its culinary prowess and sustainable initiatives. Noteworthy honours include the Michelin Guide Spain & Portugal 2022 gala, where the city earned three new Michelin stars, bringing the total to an impressive nine. Furthermore, Valencia was named Smart City 2022 and European Green Capital 2024, highlighting its commitment to sustainability and innovation. These accolades have firmly positioned Valencia as a smart and sustainable city at the forefront of the global food and cuisine scene.
One of Valencia’s greatest assets is its dedication to food sustainability. The city boasts a unique advantage, sourcing and supplying seasonal produce with minimal carbon footprint. From the Albufera Natural Park, where a variety of local rice cultivars are grown, including the essential ingredient of the iconic Valencian dish paella, to the abundant offerings of the Mediterranean Sea, Valencia’s culinary landscape thrives on fresh fish sourced from the Marina de Valencia fish market and local restaurants. Additionally, the city embraces urban beekeeping, with approximately twenty hives installed on the rooftops of public buildings, contributing to the pollination and biodiversity of Valencia’s picturesque parks.
To further celebrate Valencia’s gastronomic heritage, Visit Valencia hosted an Irish gastronomic experience and private paella cooking demonstration by Chef Robert Curley, a chef who represented Ireland in Valencia’s World Paella Day Cup. The evening included an exclusive cooking demonstration, providing insights into the history and cultural significance of paella, as well as its traditional preparation and tasting. Paella holds a special place in Valencia’s gastronomy and culture, being a dish steeped in tradition and cherished by the locals who have been preparing it for centuries.
Valencia promises an extraordinary gastronomic journey that will leave foodies craving for more. With its vibrant food markets, delectable street food, and world-class dining establishments, Valencia is a must-visit place for food lovers seeking to embark on an unforgettable culinary adventure.
