In May 2026, the inaugural Food Capitals Summit takes place in Castelldefels, a Mediterranean coastal city where gastronomy is a powerful driver of tourism, identity, and sustainable development. Rooted between sea, farms, and city life, Castelldefels shows how food can connect landscapes, communities, and public and private actors. The Summit invites member cities to explore how gastronomy can strengthen destination attractiveness, support local food systems, and create meaningful experiences for both residents and visitors.

1) Discover How Castelldefels Uses Gastronomy as a Tourism Strategy

Learn how the city has built a clear gastronomic identity that strengthens its attractiveness as a Mediterranean destination, while supporting local producers, restaurants, and communities. A central example is the creation of the city’s signature dish, l’Arròs de Castelldefels, developed through collaboration between the municipality, local chefs, farmers, and the tourism sector. Through this case, cities will explore how gastronomy can strengthen public–private collaboration, connect tourism with local farming and fisheries, and position food as a lever for place branding, visitor experience, and year-round destination development (find out more in our latest Cities at the Table podcast episode!)

2) Experience Connection from Farm to Coast

From peri-urban agriculture to seaside cuisine, the Summit follows the full journey of food. Site visits to the Parc Agrari del Baix Llobregat, hands-on harvesting, and shared meals reveal how land, sea, and people are interconnected within a resilient local food ecosystem that supports both everyday life and the visitor experience. 

3) Take the Stage and Learn from Peers

The “Feast, The Flop, The Fix” session invites cities to share a best practice, a challenge, or a lesson learned from their food & gastronomy initiatives. More than a presentation moment, it is a space for collective reflection, where cities receive feedback, fresh perspectives, and practical ideas from peers facing similar realities. (Read more about last year's edition at the AGM in Lyon)

4) Learn Through Practice, Not Just Panels

This Summit is built around doing and sharing. Participants will cook together with international chefs, take part in various workshops, and explore real-world initiatives. Gastronomy becomes a hands-on learning tool of transmitting values, culture, and knowledge through experience.

5) The Beach as a Place of Connection

Castelldefels’ seaside will be more than a scenic backdrop; it will be a true space for exchange and reflection. Informal moments on the beach will frame the Summit experience, creating opportunities for dialogue, networking, and shared inspiration outside traditional conference settings.

Ready to experience Castelldefels? 
Member cities have received a pre-registration link in their inboxes (contact us if you haven't!). 

Is your city interested in finding out more about becoming a Food Capital? 
Contact us to explore how to attend as an "Observer City"!