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Restaurant Week ran October 11–17, with standout menus at fixed prices that highlighted Aruba’s culinary scene.
Bucket List Experiences created lasting memories at Renaissance Island, Mercat, and Eskama at the St. Regis, offering unique settings and tastes that went beyond ordinary dining.
The Pavilion reached new heights, with the EPB students’ booth stealing the show. Their goat shoarma was a hit, proving fresh ideas and bold flavors can make a big splash.
Autentico 2025 reminded everyone that Aruba is a place to savor, explore, and celebrate culinary excellence.
The 2025 edition of the festival raised the bar even higher, serving up a vibrant mix of culinary experiences, entertainment, and meaningful connections. Here are some highlights from this year’s celebration.
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Bronx-born chef Christian Petroni has built a career around Italian-American comfort food with big flavors and even bigger personality. After winning Season 14 of Food Network Star, he became a fan favorite on shows like Chopped, Beat Bobby Flay, and Guy’s Grocery Games. He grew his first restaurant, Fortina, into seven locations in eight years and now runs Gabagool Media, producing content, consulting, and creating dishes that feel like home. You can try his viral garlic bread, meatballs, and tiramisu at Yankee Stadium, and his debut cookbook Parm to Table drops in September 2025. Christian will be in Aruba this October for the Autentico Aruba Culinary Festival, bringing his signature warmth and flavor to the island.
Chef Tim Golsteijn has built his career in various international renowned restaurants in Amsterdam, where he developed his passion for top gastronomy and pastry. He has great emphasis for flavours and aromas, that are linked to memories and giving his dishes emotional depth. With inspiration from his travels, he creates unique culinary experiences, which reflect the seasons. Tim loves to share his love of cooking with others, both in his restaurant Bougainville, and at collaborations, demos, or 4hand dinners at culinary events all over the world. His enthusiasm and creativity make him an inspiring person in the culinary world.
Chef Jaime Pesaque, founder of Mayta in Lima, is one of Peru’s most celebrated culinary figures. Trained at Le Cordon Bleu and in Michelin-starred kitchens in Europe, he has elevated contemporary Peruvian cuisine to global acclaim. Mayta has been recognized on Latin America’s 50 Best and The World’s 50 Best Restaurants lists, earning titles such as Best Restaurant in Latin America (2023, 2024) and World’s Best Restaurant (2022). Pesaque also leads several concepts in Lima and has expanded Peruvian flavors internationally. This October, he will bring his culinary vision to the Autentico Aruba Culinary Festival.
Don’t miss the chance to relive the best moments of the festival. Scroll through our gallery to see stunning photos that capture the magic of this year’s event!
Keep an eye out for updates and information. Until then, thank you for being part of the Autentico family!
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