The DIARIO DE AVISOS Foundation held its 41st National Gastronomy Awards last night at the El Sauzal Theatre, celebrating the best in contemporary cuisine. The event drew leading figures from the culinary, cultural, and institutional sectors, highlighting the importance of local produce, sustainability, and culinary innovation in driving the economy in Spain and the Canary Islands.
Among the notable winners was Priscila and Carlos Gamonal of Mesón El Drago, awarded the Manuel Iglesias Prize for their commitment to traditional cuisine and local ingredients.
Luna Zacharias from Famara, Lanzarote, received the Best Ambassador for Canarian Gastronomy Worldwide, recognised for her advocacy of local produce and sustainable practices. The Best International Cuisine award went to El Líbano in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, celebrated for its Lebanese dishes and cultural fusion.
The @ConsumeCanario Award was given to Cráter, a restaurant featuring a menu inspired by La Palma’s landscape. Bodega Ferrera won the Best Work in Winemaking for showcasing Canarian wine culture, while Rafael de León from El Cenador took home the Young Talent Award, recognising a new generation of chefs.
Dana Joher of Ave Pastelería in Las Palmas won the Best Pastry Work Award for blending French traditions with local ingredients. The evening also acknowledged major culinary figures, including Javi Estévez of La Tasquería de Javi Estévez in Madrid for Best National Restaurant, and Juan Cabrera of Brisa Marina in Lanzarote for Best Restaurant.
Samantha Vallejo-Nágera, a former judge on MasterChef, was awarded for her efforts in promoting gastronomy and enhancing the visibility of culinary culture in Spain.
The gala featured a festive atmosphere and marked the introduction of the Young Talent Award. It will be broadcast by Atlántico Televisión on Saturday, 18 July at 11:00 PM, as part of the official coverage supported by multiple sponsors, including TuTrébol and the Canary Islands Government.
The awards reaffirm the significance of tradition, innovation, and talent in showcasing the culinary excellence of the Canary Islands.
