Cantabria: Spanish cuisine comes to Brussels

Located on the northern coast of Spain, between the Atlantic Ocean and the majestic Picos de Europa mountains, Cantabria (population 580,000) charms visitors with its contrasting landscapes and strong identity. Its capital, Santander, is a lively and elegant port, known for its bay, which is ranked among the most beautiful in the world. Beyond its wild beaches, fishing villages and rich historical heritage, Cantabria is now establishing itself as a leading destination for culinary tourism. Here, the bounty of the sea and the mountains come together in authentic recipes that celebrate flavour and tradition.

Represented in Brussels by the Regional Government Office of Cantabria and SODERCAN, the region’s development agency, Cantabria does more than just advocate for its economic and political interests: it also showcases its culture and gastronomy through a variety of events. The next one? Taste Cantabria, a gourmet celebration that promises to awaken all the senses.

Cantabria, a land of fine gastronomy

Taste Cantabria: a culinary experience in Brussels

On Monday 29 September 2025, the Excellis building (105A rue Colonel Bourg, 1140 Evere) will host an exclusive gastronomic event organised by Excellis/Horeca Magazine, in partnership with Sodercan and the Chamber of Commerce of Cantabria, to present for the first time in Brussels the agri-food products of the region. From 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Spanish chef Adrián Mancheño will orchestrate a live cooking show, transforming the region’s flagship products into tapas and refined dishes. At the same time, visitors will be able to chat with a dozen producers who have come especially to showcase their expertise.

A culinary journey through Cantabria in Brussels

The journey begins at the seaside, in Santoña and Castro Urdiales, where the tradition of conserve-industry remains alive and well. Hand-prepared anchovies, tuna belly and mussels are testament to centuries-old expertise, passed down from generation to generation. These seafood products, veritable salty treasures, have made the region internationally renowned.

Then head for the green valleys, where livestock farming and dairy production give rise to unique cheeses. The creamy and delicate Queso de Nata de Cantabria sits alongside the firmer and more fragrant Quesucos de Liébana, and the Picón Bejes-Tresviso, a powerful blue cheese matured in natural caves. These specialities embody the perfect marriage of unspoilt nature and artisanal expertise.

The journey continues with sweets and baked goods: artisan breads, cakes and fine pastries, not to mention delicacies that combine tradition and innovation. These creations offer a moment of comfort that perfectly complements a Cantabrian table.

Finally, it is impossible to leave the region without raising a glass. From the craft beers of Dougall’s, pioneers in Spain, to the premium spirits of the Siderit distillery – gin, vodka, vermouth and whisky – Cantabrian drinks reveal a bold creativity and international outlook. They are the perfect elegant accompaniment to the anchovies, cheeses and preserves tasted earlier.

Organisations working hard to promote Cantabria

If Cantabrian cuisine is now renowned far beyond its borders, it is thanks to regional institutions that ensure the quality and promotion of its products. The ODECA (Cantabrian Agri-Food Quality Office), attached to the regional government, plays a key role in supervising quality labels (PDO, PGI), supporting organic farming and promoting exceptional products under the ‘Sabe a Norte’ brand. The organisation also supports producers at major international events, raising the profile of Cantabrian specialities on the world stage.

For its part, SODERCAN plays a key role in supporting the international expansion of Cantabrian companies. A central part of its work is the organization of trade missions and promotional actions abroad, designed to help businesses explore new markets, establish partnerships, and increase their exports. In collaboration with the Cantabria Chamber of Commerce, ICEX Spain Trade and Investment, and the Spanish Chamber of Commerce, it is promoting the Cantabria Internationalization Plan 2025–2028, which aims to consolidate the presence of Cantabrian companies in foreign markets. By combining economic support and cultural promotion, these structures make Cantabria a region that knows how to promote both its flavours and its expertise.

An invitation to savour Cantabria

With its coastal and mountainous landscapes, rich culinary heritage and desire to share its identity, Cantabria confirms its place among Spain’s most gourmet regions. Taste Cantabria will be a unique opportunity to discover all its flavours in the heart of Brussels.

See you on 29 September at Excellis for a Cantabrian culinary spectacle!

List of exhibitors: an overview of Cantabrian expertise

• Aceites Alía: premium extra virgin olive oil.
• Anchoas de Santoña: anchovies and seafood products made using traditional methods.
• Cantabria Quesera: an association of iconic PDO cheese makers.
• Dougall’s – Cervezas Artesanales: pioneers of Spanish craft beer.
• Conservas El Capricho: high-end seafood preserves with an authentic taste.
• Conservera Castreña: preserves and salted fish from sustainable fishing.
• Delicatessen La Ermita: prestigious gourmet products.
• Destilería Siderit: gin, vodka, vermouth and whisky with a local touch.
• Horno San José: artisan breads and pastries.
• Olio Viridi: organic and premium olive oils.
• Quesería Javier Campo: PDO blue cheeses matured in natural caves.
• Santander Fine Food: consortium of premium food producers.

SODERCAN:

• 📧 Email : internacional@sodercan.es
• 🌐 Website : www.sodercan.es
• 📱 Social media: