Discover the Flavors of Northern Spain with Chef Cody Taylor

Northern Spain is a destination that captures the imagination of food lovers from around the world. From the lively pintxo bars of Bilbao and the culinary excellence of San Sebastián to the prestigious vineyards of Rioja, every corner of the region tells a story through food, wine, and tradition.

Rich in history and fiercely proud of its culinary heritage, the Basque Country has earned a reputation as one of the world’s greatest gastronomic destinations. Here, family recipes are treasured, local ingredients are celebrated, and dining is considered an essential part of everyday life.

In December 2026, The Gourmet Vacation invites travelers to experience the very best of Northern Spain alongside Chef Cody Taylor and Chef Richard Gruica during an unforgettable culinary journey through Bilbao, San Sebastián, and Rioja wine country.

This immersive experience combines Michelin-starred dining, hands-on cooking, exclusive winery visits, cultural exploration, and authentic local experiences designed to showcase the true spirit of Northern Spain.

Whether you’re passionate about food, fascinated by wine, or simply seeking a deeper connection to one of Europe’s most celebrated culinary regions, this journey promises memories that will last a lifetime.

Meet Chef Cody Taylor

Chef Cody Taylor is the award-winning chef and co-owner of Heirloom Market BBQ in Atlanta, one of America’s most celebrated barbecue destinations.

Alongside his business partner, Jiyeon Lee, Chef Cody has built a loyal following by blending authentic Southern barbecue traditions with bold Korean flavors, creating a dining experience that is both innovative and deeply rooted in culinary heritage.

Heirloom Market BBQ has been recognized by Southern Living, Food Network, and Thrillist as one of the top barbecue restaurants in America. The restaurant has also been featured in The New York Times, Bon Appétit, and Eater, while earning recognition as one of the South’s Best Restaurants by Southern Living.

Known for his mastery of slow-smoked meats, thoughtful flavor combinations, and respect for culinary traditions, Chef Cody brings a unique perspective to culinary travel. His passion for food extends far beyond the kitchen, making him an ideal guide for exploring the traditions and stories behind Northern Spain’s extraordinary cuisine.

Throughout the journey, guests will have the opportunity to dine, learn, and explore alongside Chef Cody personally, gaining insights into the techniques, ingredients, and cultural influences that connect food lovers around the world.

Why Travel with The Gourmet Vacation

Founded by Chef Richard Gruica, The Gourmet Vacation specializes in creating immersive culinary travel experiences that go far beyond traditional tourism.

Rather than simply visiting destinations, guests are invited to experience them through the lens of food, culture, and meaningful connection. Every itinerary is thoughtfully curated to provide exclusive access to local producers, chefs, artisans, and experiences that reveal the authentic character of a region.

Chef Richard, a culinary travel expert who resides in Spain, brings extensive knowledge of the country’s food culture, wine regions, and hidden gems. His passion for connecting travelers with unforgettable experiences is at the heart of every Gourmet Vacation journey.

Together, Chef Richard and Chef Cody create a unique combination of culinary expertise, local knowledge, and authentic hospitality that transforms a vacation into something truly extraordinary.

Exploring the Culinary Heart of the Basque Country

The adventure begins in Bilbao, a vibrant city where modern architecture, historic neighborhoods, and exceptional cuisine coexist beautifully.

Guests will explore the city’s famous Casco Viejo, discover the lively atmosphere of Plaza Nueva, and experience the Basque tradition of pintxos—small, flavorful bites that showcase the region’s creativity and culinary craftsmanship.

A hands-on cooking class inside Bilbao’s renowned market offers travelers the opportunity to work with local ingredients while learning traditional Basque techniques from regional experts. These immersive experiences provide a deeper understanding of the people and traditions behind the cuisine.

The journey also includes visits to some of Northern Spain’s most iconic cultural landmarks, including the Guggenheim Museum, where contemporary art and striking architecture have helped transform Bilbao into one of Europe’s most dynamic cities.

From Coastal Villages to Michelin-Starred Excellence

As the journey continues along the stunning Basque coastline, guests will discover picturesque fishing villages, dramatic seaside landscapes, and culinary experiences that have earned worldwide acclaim.

One highlight includes a visit to Getaria, a charming coastal town famous for its fishing heritage and exceptional seafood. Here, guests will dine at the legendary Elkano, one of the world’s most celebrated restaurants, known for its mastery of grilled seafood and dedication to traditional Basque cooking.

Along the way, travelers will explore the unique traditions of the region, including an exclusive look at Jai Alai, the exhilarating Basque sport known as the fastest game in the world.

The experience also includes private tastings in the renowned Txakoli wine region, where guests will learn about the crisp coastal wines that perfectly complement Basque cuisine.

Ringing in the New Year in San Sebastián

Few destinations are better suited for a culinary celebration than San Sebastián.

Home to one of the highest concentrations of Michelin stars per capita anywhere in the world, the city has become synonymous with exceptional food and hospitality.

Guests will spend New Year’s Eve exploring the city’s historic streets, enjoying a guided pintxo crawl through beloved local establishments, and celebrating the arrival of 2027 with an unforgettable dinner at a Michelin-recommended restaurant.

Combining local traditions, world-class cuisine, and the festive atmosphere of one of Spain’s most beautiful coastal cities, the evening promises to be a highlight of the entire journey.

A Journey Through Rioja Wine Country

No exploration of Northern Spain would be complete without visiting Rioja, the country’s most iconic wine region.

Rolling vineyards, historic villages, and generations of winemaking tradition create a landscape that is as beautiful as it is flavorful.

Guests will enjoy private winery visits and tastings, including an exclusive experience at Bodegas Muga, one of Rioja’s most respected producers. Along the way, they’ll gain insight into the craftsmanship, patience, and passion that have made Rioja wines famous around the world.

The culinary experiences continue with unforgettable meals highlighting regional specialties, including the legendary Txuleta steak and traditional family-style feasts prepared over open fire.

From boutique wineries to rustic countryside restaurants, every stop offers a deeper appreciation for the relationship between food, wine, and place.

Luxury, Culture, and Connection

Throughout the journey, guests will stay in carefully selected boutique hotels that reflect the character and charm of each destination.

Luxury accommodations, curated excursions, exceptional dining experiences, and private transportation ensure a seamless and stress-free travel experience, allowing guests to focus entirely on enjoying the adventure.

More importantly, the journey creates opportunities for genuine connection—with local culture, with fellow travelers, and with the culinary traditions that make Northern Spain so special.

More Than a Vacation

A culinary journey through Northern Spain with Chef Cody Taylor is about more than incredible meals and exceptional wines.

It is about discovering the stories behind the food, meeting the people who preserve culinary traditions, and experiencing a culture where gathering around the table remains one of life’s greatest pleasures.

From bustling markets and Michelin-starred dining rooms to vineyard-covered hillsides and charming fishing villages, every moment is designed to inspire curiosity, connection, and appreciation for the remarkable flavors of Northern Spain.

Join Chef Cody Taylor and The Gourmet Vacation for an unforgettable culinary adventure and experience one of the world’s great food destinations in a way few travelers ever will.

Book your spot on the tour here: Flavors of Northen Spain