The culinary world is turning its attention to Mexico’s Pacific coast as Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit prepare to host the 17th edition of the Nayarit-Vallarta Gastronómica festival. Set to take place from October 12th to 19th, 2025, at the Paradise Village Hotel, this highly anticipated event will bring together some of the greatest minds in global cuisine.
The festival, a premier gathering of chefs, sommeliers, and mixologists from Mexico, Latin America, and Europe, is poised to showcase the region’s rich culinary heritage. The event’s theme, “Connecting Minds, Connecting Souls,” highlights its role in fostering a community of passionate professionals who are pushing the boundaries of gastronomy.
A Global Gathering of Talent
The lineup for this year’s event is truly exceptional. Guests can expect to see Michelin-starred chefs, winners from The World’s 50 Best Restaurants awards, and even Top Chef contestants.
Among the international guests are:
- Nacho Manzano, the renowned Spanish chef with three Michelin stars for his restaurant Casa Marcial.
- Janaina Torres of Brazil, who was named the Best Female Chef in 2024 by The World’s 50 Best Restaurants.
- Heinz Wuth from Chile, who has gained a massive following with his innovative Ciencia y Cocina (Science and Cooking) project on social media.
Mexico will be represented by a stellar group of chefs, including Carlos Gaytán, the first Mexican chef to earn a Michelin star, and Mario Hernández, whose taqueria, El Califa de León, recently received a Michelin star.
More Than Just Food
According to Michelle Fridman Hirsch, Jalisco’s Secretary of Tourism, the event’s impact goes far beyond the plate. She emphasized that gastronomy is a powerful economic engine, benefiting hotels, guides, artisans, farmers, and fishermen, and energizing the entire tourism sector. With nearly 30 percent of global tourist spending allocated to food, promoting culinary tourism is a strategic move that enhances visitor experiences and supports local communities.
Paco Ruano, the executive chef and creator of Guadalajara’s Restaurante Alcalde, praised the festival for its long-standing commitment to promoting Mexican cuisine. “It’s a clear example of Mexico’s potential to support, project, and mobilize the world through its gastronomy,” he stated.
The festival will feature exclusive dinners, tastings, and workshops, all open to both culinary professionals and the public. Expert speakers, including Daniela Mijares, the Michelin Mexico Liaison, and Valentina Ortiz Monasterio, the President of 50 Best Latin America, will also be on hand to share their insights on the future of food.
This year’s Vallarta Nayarit Gastronómica solidifies Jalisco’s reputation as a global culinary leader, celebrating tradition, innovation, and the warm hospitality for which Mexico is known.
For more information and to see the full lineup of chefs and events, visit the official website, or Facebook page.
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