Madrid Fusión 2026 puts diners centre stage as global chefs lead culinary summit in Madrid

Gastro summit Madrid Fusión Alimentos de España 2026 will take place from 26^th to 28^th January in Madrid. Now in its 24^th edition, the event will focus on the evolving role of the diner in modern gastronomy, with the theme “The customer takes the lead”. For the first time in its history, the event will feature more international chefs than Spanish ones on its main stage, reflecting the growing global dialogue in the culinary world.

The conference will examine how the traditional relationship between chef and diner is shifting, as customers become more informed, critical and participatory. Organisers say this mirrors broader societal trends shaped by social media, open debate and a demand for authenticity, stating the relationship between kitchen and dining room is no longer vertical but horizontal, the audience setting the pace.

Among the first confirmed speakers are Mauro Uliassi (Uliassi, Italy), Bas van Kranen (Flore, Amsterdam), Bruno Verjus (Table Bruno Verjus, Paris), Akrame Benallal (Paris), and Pía León (Kjolle, Lima), alongside chefs from Asia, Latin America, and Europe. These chefs are noted for their emphasis on simplicity, local ingredients and customer interaction.

The summit will also see the return of Madrid Fusión Pastry, a major forum for pastry, bread, chocolate and coffee, featuring figures such as Albert Adrià, Jordi Roca and José Roldán. Other parallel events include the fifth iteration of The Wine Edition – Wines from Spain, and the third of Dreams #SPAINFOODTECHNATION, which focuses on food innovation and technology.

A new addition this year is the Madrid Fusión Experience stage, which will host live cooking presentations with audience tastings, aiming to make the experience more interactive. Traditional competitions will return, such as the best ham croquette and best escabeche, alongside new ones including the first World’s Best Flan Championship.

Rio de Janeiro has been named International Guest City, and Aragón will be featured as the Guest Region, both showcasing their respective culinary identities. Tickets for both in-person and online attendance are now available, with a full three-day pass priced at €250.

Food Desk

Madrid Fusión Alimentos de España 2026 takes place from 26^th until 28^th January 2026 at Pavilion 14, IFEMA, Corta San Severo, 10, 28042 Madrid. For further information or to book tickets, visit their website here.