LO QUE ESTÀ EN ONDA | MARGARITA

Culinary Heritage and Community Impact

Introduction to Culinary Spaces

• The discussion begins with the introduction of specialized coffee bars, specifically "Tril," which has been operational for a year and a half within the spaces created by Guillermina.

• Mention of "la bodeguita de Pablo," highlighting its significance in showcasing an emblematic product of the country.

Historical Context in Gastronomy

• The conversation shifts to the importance of historical narratives in culinary experiences, referencing Juana la Loca as a connection to Spanish history and culture.

• A personal anecdote about explaining cultural references related to Isabel la Católica, emphasizing the need for understanding local history.

Building Culinary Identity

• Discussion on how culinary spaces are constructed around historical figures and events, such as Pablo's bodega, enhancing community identity through gastronomy.

• Emphasis on promoting gastronomic heritage and bringing national and international journalists to experience Margarita's cuisine.

Economic Empowerment Through Gastronomy

• The role of gastronomy is highlighted not just as food but as a means to support local fishing communities economically.

• Specific mention of Matariego's community dynamics, focusing on efforts to revitalize local economies through culinary initiatives.

Cultural Engagement and Education

• Reflection on attending a festival in Isla de Coche that showcases local traditions, illustrating the emotional investment from community members in their cultural expressions.

• Importance of deep cultural research for sustaining meaningful culinary discourse; highlights Carlos Guerra’s engagement with local festivities.

Bridging Gaps in Culinary Education

• Recognition of gaps in high gastronomy representation from Isla de Coche; plans initiated to provide educational opportunities for young chefs from this area.

• Initiatives discussed include creating programs that bring culinary training directly to Isla de Coche, addressing logistical challenges faced by aspiring chefs.

Developing Young Talent in Isla de Coche

Training Module for Culinary Skills

• The initiative aims to develop young talent on Isla de Coche through a training module focused on culinary skills, recognizing the island's significant potential.

• Plans are underway to revitalize the former Sumito school, with aspirations for Margarita to become a reference point for culinary education in Venezuela.

Revitalization of Educational Facilities

• The school was acquired last year but was in disrepair; efforts are being made to restore it despite financial challenges.

• Support from local authorities has facilitated the installation of necessary infrastructure, aiming to create a high-quality educational space that complements existing institutions like Ibero and INCE.

Specialized Culinary Education

• The goal is to establish an area for advanced studies in gastronomy, including specializations such as sommelier training and mixology.

• Emphasis is placed on comprehensive food and beverage management education, addressing the growing demand for skilled professionals in these fields.

Addressing Human Resource Needs

• With anticipated tourism growth, there is an urgent need for well-trained human resources within the hospitality sector.

• Business leaders emphasize their responsibility to train young talents, highlighting that success relies heavily on having a competent workforce rather than just physical facilities.

Future Aspirations and Community Development

• Ongoing projects include expanding cultural spaces and community engagement initiatives aimed at revitalizing local economies post-pandemic.

• Plans involve creating multi-use spaces that support local producers and foster cultural activities like open-air cinema and intellectual gatherings.

Casa Cacao and Culinary Ventures

Introduction to Casa Cacao

• Casa Cacao is a space that connects various Venezuelan products such as rum, coffee, and chocolate, aiming to create encounters with the world of Cholete.

• The initiative seeks to link important destinations like Chironi and Chuao, which are significant for cacao production.

Relaunching Catabar Restaurant

• The first restaurant, Catabar, is set to reopen; it was the original establishment that launched their culinary journey.

• The relaunch will return to its initial concept of being a restaurant with an adjoining bar.

Chef Iván García's Role

• Chef Iván García collaborates on the Bosque Bistró project, promoting Venezuelan cuisine internationally by showcasing local ingredients during his travels.

• He carries unique local products in his luggage for international events, enhancing the identity of Margarita through gastronomy.

Recognition in Gastronomy

• The Bosque Bistró has been recognized consecutively for two years in the Best Chef Awards due to their strong culinary proposal.

• This award is comparable to prestigious recognitions like Michelin stars or Soles Repsoles in Spain.

International Engagement and Expansion

• Chef Iván received awards at events held in Dubai and has expanded his culinary influence by cooking in Qatar and Serbia.

• His participation includes high-profile events like the Formula 1 in Qatar, where he presented Venezuelan cuisine.

Future Projects: 12 Metros

New Culinary Concepts

• A new venture called "12 Metros" aims to pioneer a marine cocktail bar experience inspired by successful models from Peru and Mexico.

• This establishment will focus on beach cocktails while integrating research and development efforts with local communities from Margarita Island.

Conclusion

• The discussion highlights Carlos's passion for sharing Venezuelan culture through food while emphasizing future projects aimed at expanding this vision globally.

Thank You and Invitation to Tomorrow's Gathering

Expression of Gratitude

• The speaker expresses gratitude towards the audience for their presence today, emphasizing the importance of appreciation in building relationships.

• An invitation is extended for the audience to join again tomorrow, reinforcing a sense of community and continuity.

• The speaker encourages mutual reciprocity in expressing thanks, highlighting its significance in social interactions.

• A farewell is given as the session concludes, with a reminder about reconvening at Onda 105 la superestación.