‘Atalaya,’ the Michelin-starred restaurant in Alcossebre, held a charity event recently to celebrate the success of women within the culinary field. The event, organized by Alejandra Herrador and Emanuel Carlucci, aimed to recognize female chefs, front-of-house managers, and local suppliers and highlighted their importance to the local culinary scene.

The event brought together ten distinguished women from the culinary sector, including chefs Silvia Vives (Le Bistrot), Raquel Ferrer (Mesón del Pastor), Ángela Milián (Vinatea), Catalina Chiva (La Carrasca), and Carla Moldoveanu (Gasma student), as well as key figures from the front-of-house and wine production industries. Additionally, culinary students from Gasma University joined to gain insight into the industry’s challenges and opportunities.

The event included a roundtable discussion between attendees which was moderated by renowned culinary journalist Carla Centelles. Key topics included gender invisibility in the culinary world, work-life balance struggles, and the persistent “glass ceiling” in high-end gastronomy. Sonia Valero (Barón d’Alba) noted, “Men who don’t even work in this industry often question my expertise.” The discussion allowed participants to build connections within their community, strengthening the power of women in the culinary field.

Following the discussion, guests enjoyed a collaborative menu that was handcrafted by the invited chefs. Featured dishes included avocado ceviche with pickles and habanero oil, egg cream with cured beef, mushrooms, and almonds, and Iberian pork with rosemary, Port sauce, and caramelized onions. The €110-per-person proceeds were fully donated to MARI (Mujeres Admirables Resilientes y con Iniciativa), a project by ATISCE that supports women in vulnerable situations through social and professional integration initiatives.

The event also welcomed members of the Valencia Gastronomy Academy, including President Sergio Terol and Environmental Commissioner Romina Martínez-Colomer.

Atalaya’s ‘Dones Cuineres de Castelló’ was more than a celebration; it was a reflection on gender equality in the culinary world. By bringing together talent, tradition, and advocacy, the event showcased the importance of fostering an inclusive and equitable environment in professional kitchens.

​​Report by Karwan Ahmed

Article Copyright by ‘24/7 Valencia’

Atalaya

Carrer del Camí de L’Atall, 1A, 12579 Alcossebre, Castelló

Tel: +34 964 96 71 07

https://atalayarestaurante.com/

Instagram: @atalayarestaurante