The Barbate Tuna Gastronomic Week celebrates its coming of age, becoming a fundamental pillar of the province's culinary fair calendar. This event, running from April 23 to May 3, is divided into two main phases: the Tuna Route, a gastronomic competition among hospitality establishments that began on April 22, and the Tuna Fair, which starts on April 29.
The official presentation of this year's edition took place at a press conference attended by prominent figures such as Andrés Clavijo, Deputy for Development and Employment; Miguel Molina, Mayor of Barbate; and Susana Sánchez Toro, Deputy and Deputy Mayor of Jerez, the city to which this edition is dedicated. Francisco Ponce, Tourism Councilor, also participated, along with other representatives of the Barbate corporation, including provincial deputy Ana Moreno.
The importance of tuna in the La Janda region and, specifically, in Barbate, was a central point of the interventions. Its impact on local identity, job creation, cultural and tourist appeal, and international projection were highlighted. Mayor Miguel Molina stressed that this week is “one of the most anticipated of the year,” with record participation figures, such as the 40 establishments competing in the gastronomic contest. This increase is partly attributed to the incorporation of new restaurants launched by young restaurateurs who have decided to invest in Barbate.
“"Tuna is a symbol of pride not only for Barbate, but for the entire province."
In addition to the Tuna Route with its 40 participants, the event offers a varied program that includes about 20 stands in the municipal gastronomic tent, musical performances, showcooking sessions, wine and tuna tastings, guided visits to almadrabas (traditional tuna traps), and cultural activities exploring Barbate's rich history and tradition.
Susana Sánchez Toro, representing the Jerez City Council, expressed her gratitude for her city's designation as guest, especially in a year when Jerez holds the title of Spanish Gastronomy Capital. She emphasized the excellent combination of almadraba red tuna with Jerez wines, two emblematic products of the province. The week's program includes showcookings by Jerez restaurants and the participation of the Regulatory Council of Jerez Wines.
Miguel Molina emphasized that the success of the Tuna Week, after 18 editions, lies in its ability to merge gastronomy, culture, tourism, and sustainability. Visits to the almadrabas, for example, allow visitors to learn about a fishing practice that respects the environment and wild red tuna, while delving into Barbate's tradition. The mayor also highlighted the impact of the tuna industry on local employment, the training of young restaurateurs, and culinary innovation that combines tradition and avant-garde, contributing to a prosperous business fabric in the municipality.
