In an exciting announcement for food and beverage professionals, the Lengua Conference 2026 is set to feature world-renowned chef Virgilio Martínez as its headline speaker. Scheduled for April 14–15, 2026, at Sanctuary MiMo Miami, this year’s theme, Origins, promises to delve deep into the intersection of heritage, identity, and the culinary arts. As a chef who has significantly shaped the modern understanding of cuisine, Martínez’s participation is a testament to the conference’s commitment to exploring the cultural narratives that inform our food systems.
Why Chef Virgilio Martínez?
Chef Virgilio Martínez is not just another name in the culinary world; he is a visionary who has transformed the way we perceive food through his acclaimed restaurants Central, MIL, and MAZ. His approach to cuisine emphasizes biodiversity, altitude, and ancestral knowledge, all of which resonate deeply with the Origins theme of the conference.
According to Nidal Barake, CEO and Culinary Director of Gluttonomy, the organization behind the Lengua Conference, “Virgilio’s work embodies what Origins represents. He has reshaped how the world understands cuisine — not just as food on a plate, but as a living expression of land, history, and identity.” This perspective is essential for anyone involved in the food and beverage industry today.
The Conference Lineup
The Lengua Conference is not only about one voice but a chorus of influential leaders in the culinary world. Alongside Martínez, the event will feature:
- Vivianne Bernui – General Manager LatAm, Diageo
- Will Thompson – Founder, Sunny’s Steakhouse
- Luciana Giangrande – Chef/Owner, Boia De and Walrus Rodeo
- Mike Beltran – Influential Chef
- Norman Van Aken – Influential Chef
These speakers will engage in keynote talks, panel discussions, and curated tastings that explore the cultural foundations influencing modern food practices. The diversity of perspectives promises enriching conversations that cater to culinary professionals, marketers, and food enthusiasts alike.
Exploring Origins
The Origins theme focuses on the cultural and historical narratives that shape food today. This includes:
- Ancestral Ingredients: Understanding how traditional ingredients inform modern cuisine.
- Culinary Traditions: Exploring how cultural practices influence cooking techniques and presentation.
- Migration Stories: Discussing how migration shapes local food scenes and culinary innovation.
As the food landscape continues to evolve, recognizing the roots of our culinary practices is crucial. The conference aims to spark dialogue around these topics, guiding attendees toward a deeper understanding of their culinary identities.
Networking Opportunities
One of the highlights of the Lengua Conference is the emphasis on networking. Attendees will have the chance to connect with industry leaders, exchange ideas, and build relationships that can enhance their culinary journeys. This is particularly essential in a post-COVID-19 world where collaboration and innovation are more vital than ever.
“With Origins, we are spotlighting the cultural foundations that influence how food is created, communicated, and experienced today,” says Carolina Duarte, Head of Marketing and Production of Gluttonomy and Lengua Conference. “Virgilio’s perspective brings global relevance and depth to that conversation.”
Get Your Tickets Today!
Tickets for the Lengua Conference 2026 are available now at lenguaconference.com. This is an unparalleled opportunity to learn from some of the best in the business and to engage with the pressing issues shaping the future of the food and beverage industry.
The Lengua Conference 2026 is poised to be a transformative event for all food, beverage, and hospitality professionals. Don’t miss your chance to be part of these crucial conversations about the direction of contemporary gastronomy. We encourage our readers to share their thoughts on what heritage and identity mean in the culinary world in the comments below.
Join us in shaping the future of our industry!
Written by Michael Politz, Author of Guide to Restaurant Success: The Proven Process for Starting Any Restaurant Business From Scratch to Success (ISBN: 978-1-119-66896-1), Founder of Food & Beverage Magazine, the leading online magazine and resource in the industry. Designer of the Bluetooth logo and recognized in Entrepreneur Magazine’s “Top 40 Under 40” for founding American Wholesale Flora, Politz is also the Co-founder of the Proof Awards and the CPG Awards and a partner in numerous consumer brands across the food and beverage sector.
