On October 23, the Hong Kong Tourism Board kicked off the “Hong Kong Wine and Dine Festival” at the Central waterfront, showcasing the city’s allure as a “Gastronomy and Wine Capital.” This event allows residents and visitors to enjoy global wines and popular dishes against the stunning backdrop of Victoria Harbour, immersing themselves in Hong Kong’s vibrant culinary culture.
During the opening ceremony, the Acting Financial Secretary of the Hong Kong SAR Government, Paul Chan, noted that last year’s festival attracted around 140,000 participants, indicating its immense popularity. He emphasized that Hong Kong is gradually becoming a global wine hub, where wine enthusiasts can sample a curated selection of fine wines from around the world. Additionally, the presence of several Michelin-starred restaurants at accessible prices highlights the city’s culinary landscape.
The Chairman of the Tourism Board, Pang Yiu-kai, expressed that this year’s festival showcases the rich diversity of Hong Kong’s food culture. For the first time, the event has been extended to five days, running through October 27, with hours extended until 11 PM to invite more residents and tourists to experience the festive atmosphere.
The festival features high-quality wines from 35 countries and regions, including classics from France, Italy, and Spain. Notably, the representation from China has increased to 22 booths, with 29 wineries from mainland China participating, showcasing products from regions such as Ningxia, Sichuan, and Yunnan.
New this year is the “Gourmet Zone,” which invites renowned chefs from Michelin-starred restaurants and famous bartenders to create exquisite food and beverages live for the participants. Additionally, 19 themed “Tasting Workshops” provide interactive opportunities where top chefs and professional sommeliers lead sessions, exploring food and wine pairings and offering guests a unique tasting experience.
