Slow Food Cook Alliance's First Anniversary Celebration

The first anniversary of the Slow Food Cook Alliance was celebrated on October 23, 2023, at Yalı 77 in Beykoz, Istanbul, with the participation of chefs, producers, and prominent figures from the world of gastronomy. At the event, 33 different local products from the Ark of Taste list, which advocates for good, clean, and fair food in line with the Slow Food philosophy, were carefully prepared by chefs. As we approach the 100th anniversary of the Turkish Republic, both professionals from the gastronomy sector and young chefs gathered to emphasize the importance of local producers.

The menu, crafted with Ark of Taste products, featured traditional flavors such as Adana topağı olives, Fethiye rock figs, and Kastamonu pastrami, highlighting the efforts to preserve these endangered foods. Renowned chefs like Aylin Yazıcıoğlu, Cem Aydoğdu, and Claudio Chinali participated in this gathering, where roundtable discussions with producers allowed guests to learn more about local products. Throughout the event, the fading flavors of Anatolia were discussed, and the importance of supporting local production was emphasized.

The event also featured tastings of cheeses and wines made from grapes listed in the Ark of Taste. Yasmina Lokmanoğlu emphasized the importance of chef solidarity and stated that they plan to reach more chefs in the future to spread the Slow Food philosophy. She also mentioned upcoming projects, such as mapping the Ark of Taste products.

"Slow Food combines the pleasure of food with responsibility, sustainability, and harmony with nature."  Carlo Petrini

This gathering not only created a platform that brought together producers and chefs, raising awareness about sustainability in gastronomy, but also marked an important step towards preserving local flavors.