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For three days, the heart of Querétaro will be transformed into a grand feast of flavors and gastronomic culture, where the historic Jardín Guerrero, in the heart of the city, will be filled with aromas, textures, and culinary creativity during the III National Pinchos and Tapas Competition of Mexico, on September 26 and 27, and the II Tapas Competition of the Americas, on September 28.
Fernando Villalba, Consejero de Turismo Embajada de España en México; Eva García Cuervo, Directora General del Concurso Nacional de Pinchos y Tapas México y del Concurso de Tapas de Las Américas; Halina Gama Arriaga, Directora Clúster Vitivinícola de Querétaro; Rodrigo Ibarra, Director de Promoción Turística; Citlali Camacho, Directora de CANIRAC Querétaro
More than a competition, this is a high-level gastronomic gathering that consolidates Querétaro as a culinary epicenter of international reach. It is no coincidence that this state has been distinguished as the Ibero-American Capital of Gastronomy, a title that celebrates the fusion of cultures through cuisine.
The event is open to the public with free admission and promises to be a sensory spectacle. Under a large 1,000-square-meter tent, there will be seven live kitchens, bleachers for spectators, tapas exhibitions, and a market area with wines, craft beers, cheeses, local products, and handicrafts. The atmosphere promises to combine the best of the gourmet world with the warmth of a popular festival.
The road to Valladolid, Spain
The chefs competing for first place in Querétaro will not only win the recognition of the public and the jury, but also a ticket to the World Tapas Championship in Valladolid, Spain, in November. The winner of the national competition will represent Mexico, while the top three in the continental competition will take the flavors of America to Iberian lands.
Eva García Cuervo, general director of the contest, announced that there are already more than 200 chefs registered from 26 Mexican states and more than 80 participants from 14 countries in the Americas. Registration is open until August 24 at www.pinchosytapasmexico.com
Querétaro, land of flavors and alliances
The strategic alliance between Querétaro and Valladolid has borne exceptional fruit. In this regard, Rodrigo Ibarra, director of Tourism Promotion for the state, pointed out that this partnership has enhanced the region's tourist appeal, strengthening its identity as a gastronomic destination of excellence, backed by a rich wine offering and nationally and internationally awarded labels.
Halina Gama Arriaga, director of the Querétaro Wine Cluster, confirmed the participation of several local wineries, reinforcing the perfect pairing between tapas and wine. Citlalli Camacho, representative of CANIRAC Querétaro, emphasized that these events showcase the high level of national cuisine, which is winning over more palates every day both inside and outside the country.
Michelin stars, tradition, and innovation.
The jury will be composed of internationally renowned chefs, many with Michelin stars, such as Mikel Alonso, who will chair the panel, Álvar Hinojal, Jonatán Gómez Luna, Pedro Martín, Patxi Irisarri, Guy Santoro, Juantxo Sánchez, Olivia González, and David Quevedo, who, through their extensive experience, guarantee a rigorous evaluation.
A feast open to the world
Pinchos and tapas, two concepts that are simple in appearance but encompass centuries of history, tradition, and innovation. Whether you attend as a food lover, in search of new experiences, or as a curious visitor, this event promises to leave you with an excellent taste in your mouth, but above all, with a desire to return.
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