Georgia showcases culinary tourism potential at Madrid Fusión 2025

Georgia’s gastronomic heritage and tourism potential is taking stage at Madrid Fusión 2025, one of the world’s most prestigious culinary congresses, set to take place in Madrid.

The National Tourism Administration of Georgia, led by Maia Omiadze, represents the country at the event.

The event is also attended by the National Wine Agency, which is hosting presentations for visitors.

Four renowned Georgian chefs, Guram Baghdoshvili, Davit Narimanishvili, Daduna Ghlonti, and Irakli Todadze, present Georgian culinary traditions.

Georgian restaurant “Nunuka” also features at Madrid Fusión 2025.

“Madrid Fusión is one of the world’s most influential platforms in the gastronomy industry, making our presence here crucial. Together with our renowned chefs, we are promoting Georgia’s gastronomy and tourism potential. The main stand is strategically positioned, and we are engaging in various activities. The National Wine Agency has a dedicated stand where guests can partake in wine tastings and learn about Georgia’s 8,000-year-old winemaking tradition”, Omiadze said.

Guram Baghdoshvili emphasised the significance of participating in the congress.

“Being here is a great opportunity. Madrid Fusión is the most important gastronomy and tourism congress globally. We presented Phkali, prepared without oil, using only natural fats from walnuts. This congress is essential for showcasing our culinary heritage”, he noted.

Davit Narimanishvili highlighted innovations in Georgian cuisine.

“This year, we introduced “Georgian Bite”, inspired by Kharcho, featuring beef. We also prepared Gebjalia in various styles, including with yogurt, and, of course, khinkali in different fillings, as it remains a signature Georgian dish”, Narimanishvili said.

Daduna Glonti noted the broader impact of such events, emphasising that these platforms were vital for Georgia’s global recognition.

“The more people discover our cuisine and products, the further we advance. It’s crucial to establish Georgia’s place on the world’s gastronomic map”, Glonti added.

Georgian FM Alexander Chkuaseli underlined the significance of Georgia’s presence at Madrid Fusión, noting that the participation of four Georgian chefs, along with wine tastings and masterclasses, underscored the bright future of Georgian gastronomy and its role in promoting the country.
The stand features an integrated “Show Kitchen”, where visitors and culinary professionals can experience live demonstrations of traditional Georgian dishes and wine tastings twice daily throughout the three-day congress.

International attendees shared their impressions of Georgian gastronomy.

“I was surprised - I didn’t know much about Georgian culture before. The red wine reminds me of Spanish varieties, and I really enjoyed the cheese and meat dishes”, congress participant Beatrice said.

Alfredo Parfoni, a participant of the gastronomy congress, expressed the belief that Georgia’s participation in Madrid Fusión was very important, as many people were not familiar with Georgian cuisine and wine, which offered unique flavors.

“I really enjoyed Khinkali. I think this is a great representation of Georgia at the event - showcasing a country’s cuisine is always a great way to get to know it”, he added.

The National Tourism Administration reported that Madrid Fusión had been held for 22 years, attracting over 25,000 visitors from more than 50 countries.

The congress brings together over 1,800 industry professionals and features more than 180 speakers.