About Us
Why Dobrogea?
Dobrogea – Europe’s Best Kept Secret
In this land born between the Danube and the Black Sea, food is not just what we eat, it’s how we remember, how we connect and how we celebrate. Dobrogea is a place where over 15 cultures living in peace, share their stories through spices, recipes and age-old traditions. We invite you to taste what brings us together!
With simple, honest ingredients and flavors rooted in family recipes and timeless rituals, every bite speaks of belonging. This is why Dobrogea is proudly a European Region of Gastronomy Candidate for 2029, joining a vibrant network of places that honour the land through food, creativity and community.
Why this title matters
Being part of the World Regions of Gastronomy means more than recognition it’s a commitment to a sustainable and meaningful future. The title, awarded by the International Institute of Gastronomy, Culture, Arts and Tourism (IGCAT), highlights regions that use food as a driver for innovation, education, tourism, and well-being. It gives us the tools to:
- Protect our culinary and cultural heritage
- Inspire children to value real food and real stories
- Encourage creativity and sustainable practices
- Support local producers and small businesses
- Attract visitors through authentic, seasonal tourism
- Strengthen community identity and pride
- Promote Dobrogea on the international stage as a living example of harmony, taste and cultural richness
Dobrogea follows in the footsteps of inspiring regions like Sibiu (Romania, 2019), Kuopio (Finland, 2020), Menorca (Spain, 2022), Hauts-de-France (France, 2023) or Sicily (Italy, 2025) and joins current candidates such as Gozo (Malta, 2026), Harghita (Romania, 2027) and Banat (Romania, Candidate 2028) — all of which build bridges between gastronomy and sustainability. (all regions here)
The people behind the project
Whether you’re a local producer, educator, event organizer, hospitality operator, or part of a cultural community — your voice matters. Be part of Dobrogea’s journey toward becoming a European Region of Gastronomy.
Become a Partner!
Who is IGCAT?
IGCAT (International Institute of Gastronomy, Culture, Arts and Tourism) is a global non-profit organization founded in 2012. Based in Barcelona, it brings together experts, universities and institutions to support regions in leveraging their local food cultures for economic, cultural and ecological impact. IGCAT is the official body awarding the Region of Gastronomy title and fosters collaboration between member regions through events like the European Young Chef Award, World Food Gift Challenge and the Food Film Menu.
