Culinary Trail Project Launches First Pilot Training at HRC Culinary Academy

HRC Culinary Academy is proud to announce the successful launch of the first pilot training within the international project “Culinary Trail of the Ethnic and Local Cuisine in the Danube Region”, supported by the Interreg Danube Programme.

The project is dedicated to the preservation and promotion of ethnic and local culinary heritage, including viticulture, across the Danube Region. Its goal is to empower individuals and professionals with the skills and knowledge to promote authentic culinary traditions and strengthen cultural tourism throughout the region.

Developing New Training Programs for Culinary Heritage

Together with our international partners, HRC Culinary Academy developed three short training programs focused on ethnic and local gastronomy. These programs aim to connect traditional culinary knowledge with modern practices, helping participants discover the rich diversity of the Danube’s food culture.

The first pilot training, titled “Culinary Heritage Leading to the Future”, took place on October 9th, 2025 at HRC Culinary Academy. The session began with a train-the-trainer module led by Chef Viktorija Baltutyte-Bacheva, focusing on facilitation, storytelling, communication, and outreach techniques for educators.

In the second part of the training, Chef Yordan Kasabov (Bulgaria) and Chef Filip Solomon (Romania) led a hands-on culinary demonstration, presenting culinary heritage with modern adaptation and local ingredients. Participants had the opportunity to explore innovative ways of interpreting traditional dishes while preserving their authentic regional essence.

A Promising Start

The first pilot was met with great enthusiasm and active participation from attendees, marking an important milestone in the project’s implementation. The exchange of ideas, culinary techniques, and cultural perspectives created an inspiring learning atmosphere and a strong foundation for the next stages of the project.

Upcoming Trainings in Slovenia

The next two pilot trainings will take place at the Culinary Trail Demonstration and Training Center in Novo Mesto, Slovenia:

• Sommelier Beginner’s Course – 20 January 2026
• Pair Like a Sommelier Course – 11 February 2026

These sessions will focus on sommelier skills, local wine traditions, and the connection between food and wine, continuing the project’s mission to promote the cultural and gastronomic diversity of the Danube Region.

We extend our sincere gratitude to all project partners, trainers, and participants for their dedication and collaboration. Their commitment plays a vital role in preserving the culinary identity of the region and ensuring that local traditions continue to inspire future generations.