Luis Suárez de Lezo

Born in Madrid in 1974, Luis Suárez de Lezo is a dynamic force in Spain's culinary scene, currently serving as the president of the Royal Academy of Gastronomy (Real Academia de Gastronomía, RAG).

Before ascending to this national role, Luis helmed the Madrid Academy of Gastronomy for seven vibrant years. During his tenure, he launched the Gastronomy Awards of the Community of Madrid, an event that's now a cornerstone in the city's food culture.

In September 2023, Luis's passion and vision earned him a unanimous vote to lead the RAG. His dream team includes Vice President Ángel Parada, General Secretary Miguel Loya, and Treasurer Rosa Vañó. Together, they're on a mission to spotlight Spanish gastronomy as an innovative and sustainable powerhouse, positioning the RAG as the go-to authority in the culinary world.

Luis doesn't just talk the talk; he walks the walk. With a background in law from the Complutense University of Madrid and further studies in public and private management, he's got the chops to back up his culinary endeavors.

But it's his love for food that truly sets him apart. Luis is all about diverse, accessible, sustainable, and top-notch gastronomy. He's got a soft spot for Spanish products, celebrating their variety and quality. His calendar is packed, with over 250 restaurant visits a year, both in Spain and abroad, keeping him in the loop with chefs, producers, markets, and food-related businesses.

Gastronomy as a symbol of Heritage

Luis sees gastronomy as more than just food; it's a cultural phenomenon that can drive economic and social progress. He believes it's a way to revive traditions, support local producers and artisans, boost tourism, and spark innovation. In his eyes, gastronomy is woven into the fabric of society, serving as a major economic asset and a champion of equality and sustainability. As he puts it, the Academy aims to be "the voice of Spanish gastronomy inside and outside our country and a symbol of Spanish Cultural Heritage."