934 KB76 KB201020262025Bestari, Ni Made PrasiwiMimaki, Caren AngellinaShantika, BudiWijaya, I Nyoman Cahyadiletnik:18številka:3str. 325-345, 349DOI:10.26493/2335-4194.18.325-345ISSN:1855-3303COBISSID_HOST:281596675URN:URN:NBN:SI:doc-SG728JZ0enUniversity of Primorska PressAcademica turisticagastronomski turizemgastronomy tourismmetasintezameta-synthesissistematični pregledsystematic reviewtourism typologyturistična tipologijaValidating gastronomy as a distinct tourism typology| a meta-synthesis systematic review|This study examines the intellectual development of gastronomy tourism as a distinct typology within the tourism discipline. Through a meta-synthesis of 63 peer-reviewed articles published between 1998 and 2025, the research identifies six major thematic clusters: cultural heritage, experiential practices, economic entrepreneurship, sustainability integration, social identity, and technological innovation. These clusters reveal how gastronomy has evolved beyond its traditional role as a cultural complement into a central driver of destination identity, competitiveness, and policy. The study also introduces a three-stage development model of recognition, integration, and specialization that describes how destinations institutionalize gastronomy tourism over time. Findings show that gastronomy engages in multi pledimensions: it preserves heritage, enhances visitor experience, stimulates local economies, promotes sustainability, strengthens community belonging, and adapts to digital platforms. This multi-dimensionality supports the argument that gastronomy has matured into a distinct tourism typology. The study contributes theoretically by synthesizing fragmented literature and practically by offering a framework for policymakers, destination planners, and entrepreneurs to integrate gastronomy strategicallyTEXTznanstveno časopisjejournalsSlovenian National E-content AggregatorNational and University Library of SloveniaZaložba Univerze na Primorskem