Perceptions of Residents of Porto Region on Traditional Gastronomy with a Generalized Q Analysis

Gastronomy is considered a stimulus for the development of the local economy and has been progressively recognized as a main strategy for promoting tourism. Contemporary tourists are increasingly seeking values of authenticity and gastronomy serves as a marker of cultural identity. In this context, the role of residents is essential who, through their knowledge, passion and dedication, ensure that gastronomic traditions are preserved and passed on from generation to generation. This dynamic not only maintains cultural succession but also provides tourists with valuable opportunities to explore and understand local heritage through gastronomy-related experiences. The primary aim of this study is to analyse residents’ perceptions from the North of Portugal regarding the recognition of gastronomy as a cultural heritage and its role as a tool for tourism development. To achieve this aim, structured questionnaires were distributed to residents in popular urban tourism areas of Porto. The Generalized Q Analysis on 262 valid questionnaires, with 20 simple responses and 1024 combined statements allowed the identification of 15 robust components. Combination of tradition with innovation, rather than the antagonism between these concepts, shows up as an important condition for the sustainability of culturally rooted gastronomy.