Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
If you have questions, this is where you'll find the answers.
About the Movement For Consumers & Travelers
What is Taste of Place?
Taste of Place is a global movement and digital platform where you can discover, learn about, and support authentic food cultures—from makers and markets to traditions and regional dishes.
When can we use it?
We’re preparing for a 2026 soft launch of the digital platform. You can sign up now for updates and early access opportunities. And please start spreading the word to other like-minded people already!
How is this different from Slow Food?
Slow Food does great work championing biodiversity and producers through advocacy and education. On Taste of Place, you will be able to explore and experience those same values—through stories, places, and people you can actually visit and buy from.
What will you find on the digital platform?
Curated stories, a living culinary heritage encyclopedia, and experiences rooted in local culture—so you can make choices that are meaningful, responsible, and memorable.
How can I support the cause?
The most important thing that you can do is to join as a member today. Members can also share with us your local tips or makers who we should know about, and pledge to support culinary heritage when you travel—or even right where you live.
How can I become an Ambassador or Guardian for Taste of Place?
Ambassadors and Guardians are passionate advocates who help share the Taste of Place vision in their countries and communities.
Ambassadors are volunteers who promote the movement locally - connecting with businesses, storytellers, and destinations that reflect authentic food culture. Anyone with experience or enthusiasm for culinary heritage and a dedication to the movement can apply to become an Ambassador.
Guardians are accomplished professionals who are recognized for their leadership and influence in food, culture, or sustainability. The role is invitation-only but suitable candidataes may be nominated by peers or existing partners.
Both roles help grow awareness of the movement, strengthen national and regional networks, and ensure that local voices are represented in the global conversation about culinary culture.
If you’re passionate about preserving and promoting your region’s taste of place, we’d love to hear from you.
For Destinations & Organizations
Why should you participate?
You will gain global visibility with culturally aware travelers, recognition for safeguarding culinary heritage, and a role in shaping shared standards for authentic food culture experiences.
How is this different from UNESCO or Slow Food?
UNESCO documents and recognizes heritage; Slow Food advocates for producers and biodiversity. You’ll use Taste of Place to activate that heritage—through storytelling, consumer discovery, and measurable destination engagement.
What happens with Culinary Capitals?
Culinary Capitals is integrating into Taste of Place. If your destination is certified, you keep your status and receive a distinct designation and expanded global reach on the platform.
What kind of travelers will you reach?
Travelers who value authenticity, culture, and local connection—the kind who stay longer, spread out, and support small businesses, rather than chasing the latest viral spot. But we also reach local consumers, enhancing the quality of life where you live and work.
What are next steps if you’re interested?
Request the partner materials, claim or explore your national seat in the Alliance, and schedule a short call so we can reflect your priorities in the launch roadmap.
For Businesses
What businesses can join?
If your work intersects with culinary culture or heritage, you can be part of Taste of Place: farmers, fishers, foragers; artisans and craft producers; markets; guides and educators; food lodgings; cultural venues; and innovators building on traditional products.
Can restaurants be listed?
Yes—when they’re truly unique to place (regional recipes, local ingredients, or heritage methods). There’s a short application and review process to keep quality high and avoid generic concepts and multinational chains.
How can Taste of Place help your business?
You gain visibility with cultural travelers and food-curious consumers, clear storytelling about what makes you special, and a verified profile that supports trust and discovery.
How is this different from Slow Food?
Slow Food elevates producers and biodiversity. You’ll use Taste of Place to tell your story to a wider audience—linking values to real experiences and visits.
What happens to GastroTerra members?
Your membership will be transitioned into Taste of Place. You keep your professional standing and benefits, and gain broader reach, better tools, and campaign opportunities within the new platform.
Interested in supporting the Movement but you have more questions? Book a meeting.
Let's discuss your specific needs so that we can provide you with the perfect solution.
