Culinary Magic on Fuerteventura: Rigoberto Almeida’s Vision

Introducing ‘Magic Celebration by El Pellizco’

Rigoberto Almeida has recently launched an innovative catering service, called ‘Magic Celebration by El Pellizco,’ bringing the flavors of his culinary universe to special events across Fuerteventura. This new venture is based in the kitchens of his restaurant, ‘El 19,’ located in the Jandía Golf Hotel, expanding Almeida’s reach beyond his usual venues and into the hearts of island celebrations.

A New Culinary Adventure

This initiative emerged shortly after the unveiling of Almeida’s summer menu, ‘Experience,’ which includes an array of five distinct dishes. Unlike the more formal offerings at El Pellizco Costa Calma, this new catering service adopts a relaxed and casual culinary approach, making gourmet dining accessible to various events and settings.

Comprehensive Event Organization

What sets ‘Magic Celebration by El Pellizco’ apart is its all-encompassing service for event planning. This offering goes beyond food, incorporating comprehensive event organization that includes décor, ambiance, music, DJs, entertainment, and even audiovisual components. Whether it’s an intimate gathering or a grand celebration, Almeida’s team can adapt the service to perfectly fit any chosen venue, including unique dining experiences aboard a yacht.

Menu Options and Pricing

The catering service features a selection of three fixed menus alongside an enticing tapeo option. Pricing ranges from 45 to 130 euros, allowing flexibility for varying budgets. Among the standout dishes, guests can enjoy:

• Smoked peto tiradito with passionfruit aguachile, mango, trout roe, and microgreens
• Handcrafted goat charcuterie made by Almeida himself
• Slow-cooked black pig brioche
• Sirloin with habanero chimichurri and crispy Fuerteventura potatoes
• Prawns in sweet potato curry with crunchy yuca

Additionally, delightful tapas include Canary nachos, goat cheese croquettes, and a creative brownie infused with flavors reflecting the island’s culinary heritage.

Sweet and Savory Additions

To further enhance any event, clients can opt for additional services such as a dessert table, open bar, and signature cocktails. This flexibility ensures every celebration can be tailored to meet the specific desires and requirements of the host.

Rigoberto Almeida’s Culinary Journey

Almeida’s culinary journey is deeply rooted in his heritage. Born in Cuba to a Canary family, he grew up helping out at his grandparents’ restaurant in Havana, also named El Pellizco. He pursued a degree in Food Chemistry, worked at La Bodeguita del Medio, and eventually moved to Fuerteventura alongside his partner, Yahimara Ferrand.

His professional path flourished at San Borondón, where he eventually became head chef. Further enriching his skills, he trained at the prestigious Cordon Bleu, leading to the opening of El Pellizco in Morro Jable back in 2018. His accolades include a graduate degree from the Basque Culinary Institute.

The Atmosphere at El Pellizco by Rigoberto Almeida

In 2023, Almeida’s vision expanded with the debut of El Pellizco by Rigoberto Almeida in Costa Calma. This contemporary establishment, overlooking the sea, features three distinct spaces for dining: a tasting menu area, a covered terrace, and an outdoor lookout terrace, all boasting magnificent views of the Atlantic.

The restaurant spans 600 square meters and accommodates 16 guests per service. Its wine list features 220 selections from various regions, ensuring a thoughtful pairing with every dish. Yahimara Ferrand oversees the restaurant’s operations, expertly combining her sommelier skills with Almeida’s culinary artistry.

Tasting Menus and New Ventures

Currently, the restaurant offers three tasting menus: ‘La Guantamera’ at 110 euros, ‘La Majorera’ at 80 euros, and ‘Experience’ at 40 euros. The introduction of the catering service now allows Almeida to share his culinary creations at weddings, parties, and corporate events throughout Fuerteventura, further enriching the island’s dining landscape.

Awards and Recognition

Almeida’s talent has not gone unnoticed. He has received multiple accolades, such as the Gold Medal for ‘La tapa del bonito’, the Platinum Tapa award in Fuerteventura, and he was a finalist in the 2023 National Tapas Competition in Valladolid. He was also honored as the Revelation Chef of the Canary Islands by the Guía Qué Bueno 2025 and is recommended by Repsol.

Future Prospects

Looking ahead, Almeida is set to further diversify his culinary influence as he prepares to serve as a consultant for ‘El 19’ in the Jandía Golf Hotel, with plans to officially open on November 19. This is the epicenter of operations for ‘Magic Celebration by El Pellizco,’ as Almeida aspires to share his passion for food in an array of celebratory formats throughout Fuerteventura.