Lajes do Pico is one of the winners of 7 Wonders at the Table, highlighting traditional Azorean cuisine
The Regional Secretary for Energy, Environment and Tourism congratulated the Lajes do Pico Table for being one of the winners of the 7 Wonders at the Table competition, which raises the Azores to prominence by highlighting the gastronomic specificities of the archipelago.
"This is another evidence that the Azores have a lot to offer, not only in terms of nature products from the sea and the landscape but also in terms of the rich gastronomic heritage of all islands," said Marta Guerreiro.
The Secretary for Tourism stressed that the "identity of the Azores is what is shared at the table in a unique voyage of flavours, through an itinerary of excellence of gastronomic experiences."
"This gastronomic itinerary, together with our cultural heritage, our traditions, our landscapes and our people, allows us to be a different tourist destination, being the basis for sustainable development," added the government official.
Marta Guerreiro highlighted the "important role that wines and the wine tourism already play on the island of Pico, evidencing a promising growth." According to her, "there are several cultural and landscape touring itineraries, namely wine routes. In fact, the area classified as UNESCO World Heritage Site should be enhanced, where, in the unique concept of wine cellar, the art of hospitality is more important than making wine.
"This art of hospitality, which distinguishes the Azorean people, also through traditional cuisine, must continue to be part of our authenticity and, increasingly, with the professionalism that imposes itself in a sector such as tourism. It will allow us to know our people through the local specialities they make with dedication and pride in their roots," said the Regional Secretary.
The Lajes do Pico table was selected as one of the 7 Wonder at the Table, along with Albufeira, Bairrada ao Mondego, Mirandela - Maria Rita do Romeu, Monção, Terras da Chanfana and Vila Real, from a group of 14 finalists. It is part of a unique wine and gastronomic itinerary at national level.
The 7 winning tables were revealed at the final gala held in Albufeira last Sunday. The event aimed to promote the regions and the rural world through local cuisine and wines, thus fostering tourism and experiences in the territory.