On the afternoon of December 30, the Quang Binh Tourism Promotion Information Center, in coordination with the Phong Nha - Ke Bang Tourism Center, organized the Quang Binh Tourism Culinary Competition 2024.

The event filled the Phong Nha - Ke Bang area with a vibrant and inspiring atmosphere, attracting 16 teams from local restaurants, tourist areas, and tourism service businesses in Quang Binh province.

During the competition, each team had 60 minutes to prepare two dishes: one typical dish representative of their establishment and either an appetizer or dessert. This challenge showcased their creativity and sophistication in culinary arts.

The highlight of the competition was not just the appealing flavors but also the lively presentations and the stories behind each dish. This aspect helped the audience gain a deeper understanding of Quang Binh's unique culinary culture.

At the end of the competition, the Phong Nha Eco Village team took home the first prize with a unique dish that combined local ingredients with a modern cooking style, winning over the judges and the audience alike. The second prize went to the Phong Nha Town Women's Union and Ozo Park Ecotourism teams, while the Ganesh Indian Restaurant, 7th Heaven, and the Travel Guide Department teams won third prize. The Organizing Committee also awarded 10 consolation prizes to acknowledge the efforts of other outstanding teams.

The 2024 Quang Binh Tourism Culinary Competition served as both a platform for talented chefs to showcase their cooking techniques and an opportunity to honor the traditional culinary culture of the region. Dishes such as Quang Hoa pancakes, Phong Nha stream fish grilled in banana leaves and Hong Thuy lotus seed tea captivated diners with their delicious flavors and indigenous cooking methods.

Additionally, the competition provided a chance for participants to exchange ideas, learn, and share experiences aimed at enhancing and innovating menus to improve service quality for tourists. From selecting fresh ingredients and ensuring safe preparation methods to being creative in dish presentation, all efforts aimed to foster a professional and welcoming image for the Quang Binh tourism industry.

Notably, this year's competition took place amidst a series of events celebrating the arrival of the new year 2025. The lively sounds of performances and the bright smiles of visitors contributed to the creation of a truly unforgettable festival.

Photo source: Quang Binh Tourism*