We turn gastronomy into a symbol of hope after Dana at a Barceló Hotel Group event
At the beginning of 2025, we received a very special commission: to organize the annual convention of directors of Barceló Hotel Group, after the decision of the hotel firm to transfer this event to Valencia as a gesture of support for the economic reactivation of the city after the Dana.
The dinner was inspired by one of the most emblematic traditions of Valencia: the Battle of Flowers, the oldest floral battle in Spain, held since 1891. We designed a menu in which each dish became a metaphor for transformation and hope, incorporating edible flowers, humble roots and wild herbs, ingredients that grow on the margins and that became a symbol of resilience on this occasion. Because, as Xoel López’s song says, “the most beautiful flowers are born from the mud”.
Thus, the gastronomic proposal became a tribute to the city after the ravages of La Dana, celebrating the life, resilience and solidarity of the Valencian people.
“The key was for gastronomy not only to feed, but to tell a story and convey a message. We wanted each dish to talk about Valencia’s ability to flourish in adversity,” he explains. Carlos Gonzalez, Executive Chef of Gourmet Catering & events.
The concept was completed with a comprehensive staging: decoration, setting, staff costumes and pairing, all inspired by the battle of flowers.
“It was very important to choose proximity products and work with suppliers affected by Dana. Of the most difficult situations, the most beautiful thing can flourish, and this dinner was demonstrated,” he says. Montserrat Gil Najera, General Manager of Barceló Valencia.
Finalist for the 2025 EventPlus Award for Best Catering
With this event we have been finalists for the second consecutive year in the category of Best Catering in the prestigious EventPlus Awards, which annually distinguish the most outstanding projects in the event and meetings sector of Spain and Portugal. After obtaining the award in 2024, this year we have been recognized in the Bronze category In an edition that has received 261 applications for 19 different categories, with a very high level.
“This recognition belongs to all our team and the city of Valencia. We have shown that, even in the most difficult moments, creativity and union can be transformed into memorable experiences,” says Raquel Vicente, general director of Gourmet Catering & events.
In addition to creativity and innovation, the EventPlus awards especially value the responsible impact: sustainable production, social purpose and the ability to generate positive change. All these elements are part of the DNA of Gourmet Catering & events, whose proposal is defined as gastronomy with purpose: a kitchen that communicates, moves and transforms.
