The Minister of Economy, Finance and European Funds, and spokesperson for the Andalusian Government, Carolina España, highlighted «the significant tourism impact» that the hosting of the 2026 Michelin Guide gala in Málaga will have on Andalusia, where the new distinctions for Spain and Portugal will be revealed.
España participated in the event held at the Málaga–La Cónsula School of Hospitality, where the Minister of Tourism and External Affairs of Andalusia, Arturo Bernal, also took part in announcing the selection of the capital city of Málaga. The spokesperson expressed the satisfaction and pride of the Andalusian Government for the choice of Málaga, stating that it «will continue to showcase the ‘Andalusian brand’ around the world.» She emphasized that the Michelin Guide gala «transcends borders,» thus linking its celebration to Málaga, to Andalusia, enhances the «prestige» of the community as a host and organizer of major events, such as the Latin Grammy Awards (2023), the Davis Cup finals, or the Goya Awards. She also noted that the decision to hold the Michelin Guide gala in Andalusia, specifically in Málaga, was the result of months of collaborative efforts between the Andalusian Government, the City Council of Málaga, the Provincial Council of Málaga, and the organization itself.
The Minister explained that Andalusia is globally recognized for its history, quality products, and emerging agri-food sector, «with huge potential for the tourism and economy of our land.» She highlighted that the region welcomes millions of visitors each year who come to Andalusia to experience its gastronomy, a sector that is «gaining ground as one of the top attractions when choosing a destination to visit.»
According to the Minister of Economy, Andalusian cuisine is «one of the hallmarks of the ‘Andalusian brand’, which is now conquering the world through taste.» She referenced various studies indicating that up to 70% of travelers choose their destination «based on the gastronomic reputation of a place,» and up to «85% of travelers consider gastronomy as one of the key factors in deciding where to travel.»
Therefore, gastronomy, along with monuments or landscapes, «leaves a memory» based on the «good or bad food we eat in those places, and is transforming the way we travel,» impacting other areas such as culture and sustainability.
Additionally, Carolina España pointed out that gastronomy has tremendous potential, considering that the World Tourism Organization confirms that «gastronomic tourists spend about 25% more than others.»
Likewise, the Andalusian Government spokesperson emphasized that the community has much to offer in this sector, as it boasts «unique and exceptionally high-quality products that are internationally recognized,» a fact supported by the figures of Andalusian agri-food exports, where olive oil stands out as one of the primary products.
Moreover, España stated that «we are the European region with the highest combined number of Protected Designations of Origin (PDO), 28, and Protected Geographical Indications (PGI), 31, plus two that extend beyond the geographical scope,» complemented by the work of top chefs who choose the region not only for their professional development but also for training at institutions like La Cónsula in Málaga.
For the Minister, «the creators» of Andalusian gastronomy are «the best ambassadors we could have to elevate the ‘Andalusian brand’ to the highest level, even in the gastronomic world firmament.»
Michelin Stars
Carolina España also noted that our community currently boasts up to 27 establishments with the Michelin distinction, «one of the highest honors» any chef «can achieve in the culinary field,» rewarding the effort and dedication «to a passion» turned into a professional career. This work also requires «a tremendous responsibility to maintain the highest standards of creativity and quality,» values that resonate with the people of Andalusia.
She explained that out of these 27 establishments, 21 hold a Michelin star, four have two stars, half of which are located in Málaga, and two have three stars. For Spain, «if gastronomy speaks of the character of a territory, these distinctions say a lot about the character we Andalusians possess, the richness and quality of our products, the talent of our creators, our traditions, and our ability to innovate.» Therefore, she added that Málaga being chosen as the venue for the 2026 Michelin Gala «represents a unique opportunity to showcase our culinary richness and enhance its appeal, and that of Andalusia in general, as a top-tier destination for gastronomy lovers from all over the world.»
