Celebrating Culinary Excellence at the Fourth Edition of the Ruta de las Tapas de Fuerteventura
The beautiful island of Fuerteventura recently played host to the highly anticipated fourth edition of the Ruta de las Tapas, an event that brought together over 110 participants, 10 collaborating companies, and more than 1,000 enthusiastic consumers. This event wasn’t just a feast for the senses; it was a celebration of culinary creativity, community spirit, and gastronomic excellence.
A Night of Recognition
Held on May 3, 2023, at the Barceló Fuerteventura Castillo, the awards ceremony honored the most outstanding tapas from various local restaurants. The charismatic Carmen Ordiz, a gastronomist and founder of @GdeGastronomia, guided guests through the evening, making the event both engaging and informative.
Carmen Umpiérrez, the event organizer, expressed her joy about the overwhelming public participation, which tripled compared to last year, with nearly 800 entries submitted for a chance to win exciting prizes. After four months of hard work and 6,000 kilometers traveled in preparation, the success of the event was a gratifying sight.
Award Categories and Winners
One of the highlights was the presentation of various awards, categorized to highlight the incredible talents of the chefs involved.
Tapa Platino: This prestigious award was presented to Rigoberto Almeida from Restaurante Lo Nuestro, who won a cash prize of €1,000 for his innovative creation called “Perla de Fuerteventura,” a stunning tuna tartare served on a crunchy base, adorned with goat’s milk veil, cacao pearls, and prickly pear. As the winner, he will also represent Fuerteventura at the upcoming National Pinchos Contest.
Tapa Oro: Jorge Carballeira from Gastrobar A Poniente received the Gold Tapas Award along with a prize of €750 for his distinct culinary offering, showcasing the creativity prevalent in the local food scene.
Tapa Plata: The Silver Tapas Award, along with €500, was awarded to Giovanni Vocca of Locanda Il Gatto Rosso for his exquisite creation, further highlighting the diverse flavors from the island.
Tapa Bronce: Finally, Vicente Soto from Restaurante Asador El Majorero clinched the Bronze Tapas Award with a prize of €250, rounding out the talented group of awardees.
Honoring Culinary Pioneers
The event also paid tribute to several local establishments that have contributed significantly to the gastronomic landscape of Fuerteventura. Honorees included Restaurante Vesubio, Familia Matoso, Bar Cafetería La Cencerra, and Restaurante La Marquesina, celebrating their dedication and long-standing commitment to quality and community.
Municipal Winners
The awards did not stop at extraordinary culinary creations; individual municipalities were recognized for their contributions:
- In Pájara, the winners included Restaurante Lo Nuestro (Gold), Al Punto Steakhouse (Silver), and Rte. Desértico (Bronze).
- In Antigua, the awards went to Rte. Asador El Majorero (Gold), Dolce Vita (Silver), and Café Bar La Noria (Bronze).
- Puerto del Rosario saw La Puipana Restaurante take home the Gold, with Casa Toño 3.0. and A Mi Manera Gastrobar winning Silver and Bronze, respectively.
- In La Oliva, A Poniente Gastrobar grabbed the Gold, while Locanda Il Gatto Rosso won Silver and Rte. La Marquesina secured Bronze.
As the curtains fell on this remarkable culinary event, it was evident that the Ruta de las Tapas de Fuerteventura has not only elevated the island’s gastronomic profile but has also forged deeper community connections through a shared passion for good food and culinary arts.
