Spring Gastro Lovers, organized by Spring Hotels at the Arona Gran Hotel in Los Cristianos, Tenerife, has become one of the most anticipated events in the world of fine dining. Held annually, this gastronomic gathering invites top chefs from across Spain to showcase their culinary mastery, offering guests an unforgettable dining experience at the hotel’s Jarea Restaurant. This year’s edition was no exception, with renowned Galician chef Pepe Solla, a Michelin-starred chef and holder of three Repsol Suns, bringing his Atlantic-inspired cuisine to the event.
A Masterful Display of Atlantic Flavors
Chef Pepe Solla, famed for his restaurant Casa Solla in Galicia, took guests on a culinary journey that showcased his profound connection to the sea. Known for his expertise in handling fresh, locally sourced ingredients, Solla’s menu was a true celebration of Atlantic flavors, a nod to the rich maritime heritage shared between Galicia and the Canary Islands. His specially curated tasting menu was an elevation of his roots, presenting the ocean’s bounty in a truly spectacular way.
An Exquisite Menu: Dishes That Dazzle
Solla’s menu, carefully designed for the event, captivated the guests with its innovative dishes, which paired Galician ingredients with Canary Island influences. Some of the exquisite courses included:
Cured scallop in kombu, with a bivalve and seaweed broth
Cockles with apple and meunière sauce
Sea urchins and codium
Catch of the day with its own emulsion and a salad of halophyte leaves
Pork jowl with cabbage cannelloni and broth
For dessert, Camellia tea with citrus and a Santiago cake bonbon
Each dish was a masterful combination of textures, flavors, and artistic presentation that transported diners to the depths of the Atlantic Ocean.
A Full Sensory Experience
Spring Gastro Lovers is not just about exceptional food — it’s about creating a sensory journey for all involved. The evening began on Saturday afternoon with a gathering on the hotel’s stunning rooftop bar, UP!, where guests enjoyed live music and a tasting of Gran Claustro cava from Perelada. The breathtaking views of Tenerife set the perfect atmosphere for an unforgettable afternoon.
The highlight of the evening was the degustation menu paired with wines from two esteemed local wineries: El Lomo and Viñátigo. These wines perfectly complemented Solla’s menu, reflecting Spring Hotels’ commitment to supporting local producers and offering guests an immersive experience in both cuisine and local culture.
A Connection Across the Atlantic
Chef Solla expressed his excitement at participating in the event, emphasizing the strong connection between Galicia and the Canary Islands, both of which are united by the Atlantic Ocean. “The gastronomic evening was truly unforgettable,” Solla remarked, reflecting on the synergy between the flavors of the two regions.
A Landmark Event for Fine Dining
With its exceptional culinary offerings, Spring Gastro Lovers 2025 reaffirmed its place as one of the most anticipated gastronomic events of the year. The combination of Michelin-starred cuisine, exceptional wine pairings, and the unique ambiance of southern Tenerife make this event a must for food enthusiasts, providing not just a dinner, but a full sensory experience that showcases the best of Atlantic cuisine.
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