ABSTRACT In the complex structure of the hospitality industry, food continues to occupy a central place. Satisfaction with the food is a significant prerequisite for overall satisfaction with the hospitality product. In the conditions of modern globalization trends in all spheres of human life, traditional food and culinary traditions become significant tools for differentiation from similar products on the market and gaining a competitive edge. The aim of this paper is to identify possible ways to preserve and promote authentic culinary traditions, leading to improved quality and competitiveness in hospitality products. In doing so, current efforts to preserve authentic food and culinary traditions in the Republic of Macedonia will be presented through an analytical method, with specific applications in the hospitality offer. This presentation should provide insight into the level of care for this aspect of our cultural heritage, promoting diversity and maintaining a connection with the past. KEY WORDS: traditional food, hospitality, quality, culinary tradition, authenticity