Chef Javier Fuentes del Río, de Ibéricos Torreón, finalista V Concurso Internacional de Cocina con Ibérico 2025

Javier Fuentes del Río, chef of Ibéricos Torreón, finalist in the 5th International Iberian Cooking Competition

At Ibéricos Torreón, we're celebrating. Our chef Javier Fuentes del Río has been selected as a finalist in the prestigious 5th International Iberian Pork Cooking Competition, a contest that recognizes culinary excellence in one of the most emblematic products of our cuisine: the Iberian pig.

Chef Javier Fuentes del Río, from Ibéricos Torreón, is a finalist in the 5th International Iberian Cooking Competition 2025.

Javier isn't just the chef of our experiences; he's undoubtedly a key player at Torreón. His work leading the Torreón Iberian Experiences , which increasingly attract more visitors from both within and outside Spain, has been instrumental in connecting the public with the flavor, culture, and tradition we've championed for over 40 years.

Since joining the team, Javier has demonstrated a profound respect for the product and an innate talent for creatively reinterpreting it without losing its essence . His dishes are not only a delight for the palate, but also a tool for telling stories, highlighting each phase of the process that transforms our Iberian products into unique pieces: from aging in the pasture to artisanal curing in our natural drying rooms.

His selection as a finalist is no surprise to those of us who see him work every day. Rather, it is recognition of a consistent, passionate, and committed career with quality . And also, why not say it, a source of immense joy for the entire Torreón team, who see in him a reflection of our values: tradition, innovation, excellence.

Chef Javier Fuentes del Río and Carmen Blázquez, his assistant at the 5th International Iberian Cooking Competition

Javier Fuentes leads a gastronomic project with soul

The Torreón Iberian Experiences have established themselves as a culinary landmark in Castile and León. Javier plays a leading role in them, leading tastings, cooking demonstrations, and workshops that allow visitors to experience Iberian pork from the inside, with a close, educational, and sensorial perspective. It is precisely this closeness that has won over international media outlets such as Roads & Kingdoms, who chose our restaurant as an essential part of their journey through Salamanca's culinary culture.

For all these reasons, this latest achievement by Javier is also a success for Ibéricos Torreón. And we want to share it with all lovers of fine products, with industry professionals, and with those who believe—like us—that Iberian ham is much more than a food: it's culture, it's territory, and it's also talent.

From here, we can only say: Congratulations, Javier! And thank you for representing Torreón with such pride at such a special event. We're with you, and we're sure this is just the beginning of many more recognitions.

Finalists of the 5th International Iberian Cooking Competition 2025