What is Sustainable Gastronomy Day?
Celebrated annually on the 18th of June, Sustainable Gastronomy Day was established to recognise the important role that sustainable food systems play in promoting environmental protection, cultural heritage, and food security.
This year’s theme, “Celebrating Food Heritage”, highlights the importance of preserving and promoting traditional food cultures, culinary knowledge, and local ingredients that have been passed down through generations. The theme recognises food as an essential part of cultural identity, encouraging communities to protect their gastronomic traditions while embracing sustainable practices that ensure that food heritages can be enjoyed by future generations.
Sustainable Gastronomy at The Xara Collection
At The Xara Collection, we believe that gastronomy is much more than food and cuisine, it reflects the cultural traditions, local ingredients, and culinary practices that form part of the world’s rich natural and cultural diversity.
Executive Chef for The Xara Palace, Clint Grech comments: ‘Our islands are blessed with an abundance of exceptional local ingredients, each carrying a story shaped by generations. The inspiration behind our menus at The Xara Palace and within The Xara Collection, is deeply rooted in local trades, traditions, and craftsmanship. When creating a menu, the focus is on highlighting local ingredients and presenting them in a unique yet delicious way.’
At The Xara Collection, sustainability begins at Xara Gardens, the Collection’s agricultural project dedicated to growing fresh, seasonal produce. Supplying much of the fruit and vegetables used across the Collection’s portfolio, including at The Xara Palace Relais & Châteaux, de Mondion, Rosami, Xara Catering, and more. The gardens embody a farm-to-table approach rooted in environmental responsibility and preservation of natural resources, and minimising environmental impact. Through sustainable growing practices and the careful stewardship of natural resources, Xara Gardens helps in safeguarding local agricultural traditions while providing chefs with exceptional ingredients that celebrate the flavours of Malta.
The Xara Collection recognises the importance of sustainable gastronomy and remains committed to maintaining and strengthening these practices. The Collection continues to raise awareness of sustainable gastronomy while delivering an authentic and memorable dining experience for its guests.
The Xara Gardens