Santa Luzia Estate Launches Its First Gastronomic Days Honouring Two Historic Figures from the Juan XXIII Group

Cooking is the art of happiness, much more than just fulfilling the human need to eat. This is well understood by the Juan XXIII Group, who have been delighting the people of Alicante with quality gastronomy for years. A history they wish to honour with the First Gastronomic Day at Santa Luzia Estate.

A tribute accompanied by haute cuisine and the finest pairing wines. A menu featuring the expertise of professionals like Dr. Queso, Olivas La Explanada, and Mar Menor salted fish, showcasing the best raw materials. Also, live showcooking from Molino Roca rice with marrow rice or barbecue with Vacum, finding the perfect space for the welcome cocktail in the gardens of Santa Luzia.

Carlos Corredor was the master of ceremonies for an event that began with the reflection that tributes should be paid to people while they are alive, not only after they have passed. In this spirit, José Gonzalez took the stage. He was the head waiter for over 42 years at the Juan XXIII Group, starting his hospitality career in 1970 at Casa Marcos in Callosa d'En Sarrià. Several years later, after military service, on April 28, 1974, he began working at the Juan XXIII restaurant, where he served as head waiter until his retirement on April 11, 2016, completing 42 years with the Juan XXIII Group.

Another honouree was Alfonso Caballero, the head chef for many years at the Juan XXIII restaurant. The chef was born in Cullar de Baza, Granada, and began his journey in Alicante hospitality in 1966 at Casa Domingo restaurant. He later worked at the Almirante Hotel and spent three years at La Piel del Oso restaurant in the Vistahermosa Complex. It was from 1993 that he joined the Juan XXIII team, where he was head chef until 2015, completing 22 years with the group until his retirement.

The surprise of the evening was the unexpected recognition of Luis Ángel Sainz de la Maza for being a fundamental part of the growth of the Juan XXIII Group.

Santa Luzia Estate begins its First Gastronomic Days this Monday, which will run until next Saturday, March 8. Sessions where enjoying gastronomy is just a step away from being fully booked. Each day pays tribute to personalities of Alicante cuisine. Monday's honourees are joined by others such as Pepe Ortín, Vicente Castelló, Rafael Reyes, and Susi Díaz. Each day's menu consists of dishes and pairings selected for the occasion. Additionally, attendees can enjoy live showcookings and gastronomic exhibitions in sessions designed to be finger-licking good.