Gastronomik, the leading professional gathering for Paraguay's gastronomic sector, will hold its 2026 edition on May 19 and 20 at the Centro de Eventos del Paseo La Galería, according to organizers. The event was officially launched Tuesday with participation from industry leaders.
This year's edition, themed #másalto, will host more than 70 exhibitors and over 100 leading brands across two days, from 14:00 to 21:00. Organizers expect over 5,000 professionals from the HORECA (Hotels, Restaurants, Cafeterias, and Bars) and Food Service sectors, as reported by El Nacional.
A highlight is the participation of Andrés Ugaz, promoter of the Ruta Gastronómica del Callao in Peru, whose appearance is made possible through cooperation between the Paraguayan-Peruvian Chamber of Commerce and Market Comunicaciones, the event organizer.
New features include the Ruta del Mbeju, an interactive initiative where the public can vote via Instagram for their favorite establishment preparing this traditional Paraguayan dish made from cassava starch, cheese, and fat. Additionally, the digital cookbook "Fuego Nuevo" will be presented, created by students from various gastronomy schools, showcasing young talent and strengthening academic training.
The event agenda includes 16 conferences, live demonstrations, guided tastings, and exclusive product launches. Categories cover the entire gastronomic business chain: food and beverages, professional equipment, management and point-of-sale technology, packaging, hygiene and food safety, tableware, furniture, and specialized services.
Gastronomik is designed to foster connections among chefs, restaurant owners and managers, hoteliers, café operators, gastronomic entrepreneurs, baristas, bartenders, and purchasing and operations professionals. The event aims to help visitors discover suppliers, test innovations, and close commercial deals directly on the exhibition floor.
Supporting institutions include Senatur, ARPY, ABAPY, the Polytechnic Faculty of the UNA, Centro Garófalo, IGA, and SNPP, along with numerous companies, sponsors, exhibitors, and allied media.
Oliver Gayet, head of the Association of Restaurants of Paraguay (ARPY), and Sara Garofalo were present at the launch, alongside representatives of sponsoring companies. Market Comunicaciones organizes the event, which has established itself as a reference platform for innovation, training, and industry development in Paraguay.