Hanoi welcomes a new breeze from Taiwanese culinary quintessence

The essence of the pearl island is present in the heart of Hanoi

From November 7 to 9, the “Taiwan Corner” program took place at the InterContinental Hanoi Landmark72 Hotel, co-organized by the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Vietnam. The event brought together three famous Taiwanese chefs: Lee Chinh-sung, Chi Yit-ming and Chan Ka-mo – who have been in charge of state banquets, Golden Horse Awards ceremonies and international events.

With extensive experience in royal cuisine and high-end restaurants, the three chefs have brought to Hanoi a menu that combines tradition and creativity. Signature dishes such as braised pork, steamed seafood with oolong tea, or Taiwanese radish cake are prepared with modern techniques, but still retain the rustic, sophisticated spirit of the pearl island's cuisine.

Diners not only enjoy the flavors but also feel the story behind each dish — the story of the land, climate, people and customs, all blending into a symphony of culinary culture.

According to the representative of the Organizing Committee, the event aims to introduce the quintessence of Taiwanese cuisine to the Vietnamese public, while creating opportunities for chefs from both countries to exchange experiences and seek cooperation in the fields of culinary services and tourism.

Nick Wu – storyteller with flavors

The highlight of the series of activities is the presence of Nick Wu (Ngo Doanh Hien) - chef and founder of Bar Mood, a bar that has been honored many times in Asia's 50 Best Bars.

Bartender Nick Wu – founder of Bar Mood, one of the most famous bars in Asia – interacts and demonstrates mixing techniques with Vietnamese chefs and culinary experts in Hanoi. Photo: PV (Vietnam+)

Before participating in “Taiwanese Cuisine Corner”, Nick Wu held two special professional exchanges at The Halflington and Workshop 14 – two famous bars in Hanoi – on the nights of October 31 and November 1.

With the philosophy of "creativity from the local climate", Nick Wu uses local ingredients such as tea, herbs, grains and cinnamon flowers to create cocktails that are both artistic and culturally significant.

According to him, flavor can become a “common language” that helps people overcome language barriers, connecting emotions and cultures. Therefore, each drink he creates is a story – about memories, land and people of Taiwan (China).

The exchanges attracted a large number of bartenders and beverage culture lovers in Vietnam.

A cocktail with a strong Taiwanese flavor, created with local ingredients during a culinary cultural exchange program in Hanoi. Photo: PV (Vietnam+)

Cultural exchange through food and drink

The common point that is easily seen between the two events is the spirit of cultural exchange. If “Taiwanese Cuisine Corner” introduces the sophistication and depth of culinary art, Nick Wu’s exchanges bring a new perspective on the art of mixing – where each flavor becomes a bridge between people and culture.

Both demonstrate the modern approach of Taiwanese chefs and bartenders: taking local elements as the foundation, but always aiming for creativity, expanding the space of cultural communication through flavor.
This is also the general trend of Asian cuisine today – when culinary artists not only cook, but also “tell stories” through food and drinks.

Experts say the visit of Taiwanese chefs and culinary experts to Vietnam this time shows the open vision of both sides in promoting culture through cuisine.
From exquisitely prepared traditional dishes to creative cocktails, the culinary quintessence of the pearl island has been expressed in a natural, familiar way, but still retains its own distinct identity./.

Spreading the spirit of creativity

It can be said that the two events in Hanoi not only stopped at introducing new flavors, but also expanded the creative range for the Vietnamese culinary community.
Through Nick Wu's sharing sessions or the presence of famous Taiwanese chefs, attendees felt more clearly the role of cuisine in connecting people and promoting culture./.

Source: https://www.vietnamplus.vn/ha-noi-don-lan-gio-moi-tu-tinh-hoa-am-thuc-dai-loan-post1075834.vnp