Tenerife’s rich culinary heritage has taken centre stage in Monaco, where the island’s local produce, wines and fine dining were showcased during the Spanish Gastronomic and Cultural Days, held from 17th to 21st June.
The event, organised by the Embassy of Spain in collaboration with the Directorate of Cultural Affairs of the Principality of Monaco, marked the 150th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Spain and Monaco.
Tenerife Cuisine in the Spotlight
Representing the island was Chef Alberto Margallo, from San Sebastián 57 in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, who was selected to create the gala dinner menu served on 20th June at the prestigious Café de Paris Monte-Carlo.
The dinner welcomed distinguished guests, including Prince Albert II of Monaco, and featured a menu highlighting Tenerife’s local ingredients alongside wines from the island’s different Denominations of Origin (DO).
Promoting Tenerife on the International Stage
The initiative was supported by the Cabildo de Tenerife, through Turismo de Tenerife, as part of its efforts to promote the island’s gastronomy internationally.
Lope Afonso, Vice President and Councillor for Tourism at the Cabildo, said the event provided an excellent opportunity to showcase the quality of Tenerife’s local produce and the talent of its culinary professionals to an influential international audience.
Dimple Melwani, CEO of Turismo de Tenerife, described Alberto Margallo as “a true ambassador” for the island’s cuisine, highlighting how his work reflects Tenerife’s identity through local products, culture and contemporary gastronomy.
Celebrating Local Produce
For Chef Alberto Margallo, the event was an opportunity to introduce guests to some of Tenerife’s most distinctive flavours, including its papas, mojo sauces, papaya and locally produced wines.
He also emphasised the importance of sharing the stories behind these products and demonstrating that Spanish gastronomy extends far beyond the mainland, with the Canary Islands offering a unique culinary identity of their own.
The event forms part of Tenerife’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its reputation as a leading gastronomic destination while supporting local producers and showcasing the island’s food culture to international markets.