Matosinhos asserts itself on the national gastronomic scene with nominations for the AHRESP Awards

The city of Matosinhos, widely recognised for its rich gastronomic tradition, bolstered its presence on the Portuguese tourist scene, obtaining multiple nominations at the prestigious 7th Edition of the AHRESP (Association of Hotel, Restaurant and Similar Industries of Portugal) Awards. These awards annually distinguish the most innovative and qualified players in the sectors of Catering, Accommodation and Tourism Promotion in Portugal.

In this edition, more than 300 applications vied for recognition in 13 categories, with the Selection Committee, composed of 43 members, specialists and professionals from the areas of catering, hospitality and gastronomy, as well as journalists, critics and recognised gastronomes, selecting five finalists in each category.

Matosinhos, with its dynamic gastronomic ecosystem, secured a prominent position with four nominations in the following categories:

• Revelation Destination of the Year: Matosinhos

• Innovative Concept: Companhia das Conservas – Bistro & Store, which values canned fish in its culinary proposals

• Product of the Year: Conservas de Portugal Norte – Porthos Smoked, canned goods produced through the traditional wood smoking process

• Gastronomic Revelation: Seiva Restaurant, under the guidance of chef David Jesus, whose creativity is based on the use of plants in gastronomy

The nominations for Matosinhos in the AHRESP Awards highlight the city's importance on the national and international gastronomic scene. Matosinhos' gastronomic identity, which melds a rich maritime tradition with innovation trends, mirrors the evolution of gastronomy on a global scale. Sustainability, the use of fresh local products, and the reinvention of traditional dishes with modern approaches, are aspects increasingly valued worldwide, which Matosinhos has been incorporating into its gastronomic panorama.

With the ambition of joining the UNESCO Creative Cities Network, Matosinhos confirms its commitment to promoting creativity and culture as drivers of sustainable development. This aspiration contributes to enriching its gastronomic offering, positioning Matosinhos as a relevant protagonist on the global stage.

The nominations achieved in the AHRESP Awards reinforce Matosinhos' role in promoting excellence and innovation in gastronomy, aligned with global trends and principles of sustainability. Matosinhos remains committed to elevating its gastronomy, asserting itself more and more as an unmissable destination reference in the national and international panorama.