The 18th edition of Isabela Tiene Sabor, a food and culture festival in the Puerto Rico town of Isabela, brought more than 12 restaurants together at the Plaza de Recreo Manuel Corchado y Juarbe on November 7 and 8. The restaurants set up around the public square, giving visitors the chance to taste the region’s food offerings.
Over the two days, cooking shared the bill with music, crafts and other Puerto Rican cultural expressions, and the event also gave visibility to local merchants and talent. A main attraction was the Demo Kitchen, a space for live cooking demonstrations where food professionals shared techniques with the public. Participants included chef instructor Diego Loera, of Northbridge; José Susana, of ¡Qué Pica!; Raúl Correa, of Bacoa-Aldeana; Rafael Grau and Miraida Avilés, of La Crème; chef Vivone, of Travesías con Sabor; among others.
Local artisans displayed their work, and the artistic lineup featured live music, an encuentro de trovadores and performances by Guamanique with its show Tradición y Cultura, Emma Santiago & Cheko Musik, Eva Kristal and Barreto El Show, which closed the music. Producer Edgar Avilés said the public response in the event’s first hours was very satisfying.
Isabela Mayor Miguel "Ricky" Méndez said such initiatives contribute to the town’s economic activity and highlight its restaurants, artisans and artists. Livany Media Group and Events produced the festival for the Municipio de Isabela, and admission was free.