Conference 2026: Origins

Two days of talks, tastings and connections bringing together the minds shaping food business. Explore how heritage and innovation intertwine to define what we eat across cultures.

Topic: Origins

The talks will dive into ancestral ingredients and knowledge, migration and identity, cross-cultural influence on cuisine, and the modern reinterpretation of heritage in food and business.

From the humble beginnings of a brand to the evolution of award-winning menus inspired by indigenous ingredients, we invite you to uncover the origins of how we eat — and who we are — today.

Speakers & Guest Chefs

Virgilio Martínez

Founder & Owner of Central, MIL and MAZ
Pablo Rivero

CEO, Resy & VP Global Dining, American Express
Will Thompson

Founder, Sunny's Steakhouse
Alejandra Espinoza

Executive Chef and Owner Cotoa
Andrew Friedman

Author & host/producer of Andrew Talks to Chefs podcast
Jesús Brazón

Founder & Head Baker, Caracas Bakery
Kaja Sajovic

Journalist and Author
Michael Beltran

Chef/Owner, Ariete Hospitality Group
Norman Van Aken

Chef/Owner (Norman's Orlando) and Author
Teresa Gallina

Chef/Owner Recoveco
Tiger Saliba

Owner, BEYBEY
Luciana Giangrandi

Co-Chef/Owner Boia De and Walrus Rodeo
Lotta Jörgensen / Per-Anders Jörgensen

Creative Director, Co-founder Fool Agency / Photographer, Co-Founder Fool Agency