Gastro fest showcases cuisines from 60% of UNESCO cities

Over 60% of the world’s UNESCO Creative Cities of Gastronomy have gathered in Macau this week for the “2025 International Cities of Gastronomy Fest, Macao” at Fisherman’s Wharf, according to the Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO).

The ten-day event, themed “Spices and Herbs,” runs from July 11 to 20 and features 35 creative cities from 22 countries across six continents.

Visitors can enjoy an array of global cuisines, performances, and interactive experiences, with 1,000 dining seats and free admission, supported by shuttle buses throughout the city.

The event’s three major highlights include the International Gastronomy Promenade, the City of Gastronomy Showcase, and the International Gastronomy Forum.

The Promenade features 105 food booths from 15 creative cities, while the Showcase presents over 60 cooking demonstrations by chefs from 29 cities.

At Friday’s opening ceremony, MGTO director Maria Helena de Senna Fernandes hailed gastronomy as a universal language that unites people, praising Macau’s rich culinary heritage as a top destination for food lovers.

Meanwhile, Colleen Swain, Coordinator of the UNESCO Cities of Gastronomy subnetwork, highlighted the festival’s importance in bringing together creative cities from around the globe.

She noted that the event not only fosters international collaboration but also provides residents, visitors, and local businesses in Macau with a unique chance to discover and celebrate the rich culinary traditions of each participating city.

From 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. today, the International Gastronomy Forum will take place at the Convention and Exhibition Centre of Macau Fisherman’s Wharf.

The forum includes keynote speeches by Jordy Navarra of Toyo Eatery and Varun Totlani of Masque Restaurant, both Best Chef Award winners, and three panel discussions featuring 15 culinary experts.

Topics will range from the legacy of the spice trade to the role of spices in modern fusion cuisine and community building.