At Saborea España Madrid Fusión 2024, La Palma has proven itself as a national benchmark in gastronomy and astrotourism. The island is not only renowned for its fresh, locally sourced products, but also for the creativity and innovation of its chefs, who skillfully blend culinary tradition with the fascinating world of astronomy. Here’s how La Palma nurtures its products, culinary talent, and territory, making it an unparalleled destination.
We Care for the Product: La Palma’s Tuna
La Palma takes great pride in its tuna, a zero-kilometer product caught using sustainable fishing methods. Known for its freshness and premium quality, this tuna plays a starring role in many local recipes. At La Lonja restaurant, Chef Juan Carlos transforms this delicacy into one-of-a-kind dishes, such as tuna with mojo rojo breadcrumbs, a dish that not only delights the palate but also tells a story. Inspired by the cliffs of Venus, this dish showcases how gastronomy and astronomy can merge to create a unique culinary experience.
We Care for Culinary Talent: Innovation Meets Tradition
The chefs of La Palma are redefining innovation, continuously pushing the boundaries of traditional cuisine. At Madrid Fusión, Juan Carlos and Antonio demonstrated how they combine culinary heritage with innovation. Dishes like their chilled tomato soup, which visually represents Jupiter’s atmospheric bands, exemplify how gastronomy can be transformed into an art form. This approach not only highlights local talent, but also attracts tourists seeking unique culinary experiences.
We Care for the Territory: Nature and Astrotourism
La Palma is more than just a gastronomic paradise—it is also a natural wonder and a global astrotourism hotspot. The island boasts over 1,000 km of hiking trails, black sand beaches, and stunning national parks, such as Caldera de Taburiente. Additionally, it is home to the Roque de los Muchachos Observatory, one of the most important astronomical observatories in the world, featuring the largest optical telescope on the planet.
Thanks to a special sky protection law, La Palma’s night skies are among the clearest and most star-filled in the world. With 14 astronomical viewpoints and themed star-gazing trails, visitors can explore the universe in a unique and educational way—both day and night. Local businesses organize family-friendly, educational activities, promoting a sustainable and enriching tourism experience.
A Menu of Stars: La Palma in Every Bite
La Palma can be compared to a full-course meal, where each dish represents a different aspect of the island. The hiking trails and beaches serve as the appetizers, the national parks and cultural activities act as the main course, and the starry skies provide the perfect dessert. Dishes such as Jupiter’s chilled tomato soup, Venus-inspired tuna with mojo rojo breadcrumbs, and a toast with quesadilla, burgados (sea snails), gofio crumble, and potato cream illustrate how gastronomy can tell the story of La Palma and its celestial wonders.
La Palma: A Destination That Cares
La Palma is a destination that cherishes its local products, nurtures its culinary talent, and protects its natural beauty. Whether enjoying a plate of freshly caught tuna or marveling at the stars from an astronomical viewpoint, visitors to La Palma are invited to immerse themselves in its authentic flavors and celestial landscapes.
To visit La Palma is to embark on a journey of culinary delights and breathtaking skies—an experience like no other.
