Home » Alternative tourism » Culinary Institute of America in US to Spotlight Mediterranean Cuisine at Twenty-Seventh Worlds of Flavor Conference: What You Need to Know
Published on
October 10, 2025
This November, the Culinary Institute of America (CIA) will host the twenty-seventh annual Worlds of Flavor International Conference and Festival at its Napa Valley campus in US focusing on the rich culinary heritage and vibrant culture of the Mediterranean. From November 5 to 7, chefs, food experts, and industry professionals from around the globe will convene to explore how centuries-old traditions inform modern dishes and how Mediterranean flavors continue to inspire innovation across US menus.
Titled “Roots of Culture, Seas of Discovery,” the event will delve into the historical influences and contemporary prominence of Mediterranean cuisine, reflecting its rising appeal in American dining ranging from fast-casual concepts to upscale restaurants.
A Hub for Culinary Innovation and Industry Insights
Widely regarded as a premier forum for culinary excellence, the Worlds of Flavor conference offers a unique platform for chefs and foodservice leaders to deepen their knowledge, connect with peers, and unearth new market opportunities. The three-day schedule integrates immersive cooking demonstrations, panel discussions, and networking events designed to unlock creativity and fuel business growth in the culinary sector.
Sessions spotlight the fusion of Mediterranean culinary roots with global influences, emphasizing sustainable practices, traditional techniques, and the vibrant, evolving identity of the region’s food culture.
Featured Sessions Illuminate Mediterranean Culinary Diversity
Among the key panels is “Eat the World: From Mediterranean Gastronomy to American Menus,” featuring expert voices from across the Mediterranean basin, including Sicily, Turkey, Iran, and Portugal. Speakers will share insights on how Mediterranean ingredients, cooking styles, and cultural perspectives are reshaping American culinary trends.
Another highlight, “Cultural Roots, Culinary Reach: Mediterranean Flavors Driving US Menu Innovation,” examines the business case for Mediterranean-inspired offerings in the competitive US foodservice landscape. Industry leaders from the Great Greek Mediterranean Grill and other prominent eateries will explore how authenticity and innovation combine to captivate contemporary diners.
Additional sessions such as “The Heart of the Silk Road” and “Shared Shores, Distinct Flavors” will explore culinary traditions transcending borders, underscoring the Mediterranean’s dynamic and diverse gastronomic landscape.
Exclusive Pop-Up Event by Renowned Chef Musa Dağren
As part of the festival experience, acclaimed Chef Musa Dağren, owner of Istanbul’s renowned Çiya Sofrasi, will host an exclusive pop-up event at The Grove at CIA Copia from November 6 to 8. This special engagement offers attendees the opportunity to savor authentic Turkish and Mediterranean dishes crafted by one of the region’s most celebrated culinary figures.
Industry Engagement and Continuing Education
The conference is tailored to a broad spectrum of professionals, including independent restaurateurs, hospitality operators, educators, and culinary students at various levels. Its rich programming reflects the CIA’s commitment to fostering leadership and innovation in the gastronomic community.
The event also highlights the CIA’s role as a global educational leader, offering degrees and programs that emphasize sustainable food systems, culinary arts, and hospitality management, crucial to cultivating the next generation of industry pioneers.
Tourism Impact and Cultural Exchange
By showcasing the depth and vibrancy of Mediterranean cuisine, the Worlds of Flavor conference serves as a catalyst for cultural tourism. Its influence extends beyond professional circles, inspiring travelers to explore Mediterranean destinations with renewed appreciation for traditional and contemporary food experiences.
The festival reinforces Napa Valley’s standing as a culinary destination that embraces global flavors and encourages cross-cultural exchanges, contributing to regional tourism development and economic vitality.
Registration and Further Information
Professionals interested in attending the twenty-seventh Worlds of Flavor are encouraged to register online and explore detailed session information through the official conference website. The festival promises a compelling blend of education, inspiration, and celebration of the Mediterranean’s profound impact on global food culture.
Dining and Cooking