Gastón Acurio is a Peruvian chef, restaurateur, author, and television presenter who is widely regarded as one of the leading figures in promoting Peruvian cuisine internationally and shaping its contemporary identity. His experimental approach and treatment of gastronomy as a research-based endeavour have contributed to the repositioning of Peruvian cuisine on the global culinary stage.

After studying law at the Pontifical Catholic University of Peru and the Complutense University of Madrid, Acurio shifted his career towards gastronomy. He subsequently studied hospitality in Madrid and trained at Le Cordon Bleu in Paris. In 1993, he founded the Astrid & Gastón restaurant in Lima with his wife, Astrid Gutsche. He later established numerous restaurants in Peru and internationally, including La Mar, Tanta, and Panchita.

From the mid-1990s onwards, Acurio played a leading role in the development of "New Peruvian Cuisine" by combining local Peruvian ingredients and traditional flavours with contemporary culinary techniques. This approach contributed significantly to establishing Peruvian gastronomy as a respected and innovative culinary tradition on the international stage and enhanced Peru's recognition as a gastronomic destination.

Through his television programmes and publications, Acurio has addressed gastronomy in relation to cultural identity, national branding, and economic development, contributing to the growing international recognition of Peruvian cuisine. His publications, including Perú: Una Aventura Culinaria and 500 Años de Fusión, have introduced Peruvian culinary culture to a broad audience. He has also influenced chefs such as Virgilio Martínez, Pedro Schiaffino, and Héctor Solís and is regarded as one of the leading international ambassadors of Peruvian gastronomy. He has received numerous national and international awards for his contributions to the global visibility of Peruvian cuisine.