The Aficionado

Food is undoubtedly a fascinating and important aspect of the ASEAN culture. From street food to high-end restaurants, the ASEAN taste bud has definitely acquired the ability to discern good food wherever it is found. In addition, ASEAN is the classic example of cultural diffusion, being the multi-racial, multi-lingual and multi-religious region that it is. There is perhaps more colour, variety and hybridity here than in any other region in the world. The Aficionado's main goal is to cultivate an appreciation of ASEAN cuisine. It celebrates, nurtures, and honours ASEAN's diverse foods and food lore through sessions that educate and inspire. The programme will cover the language, culture and heritage of the people behind the food, highlight the ability to discern ordinary from extraordinary food, and last but not least, will motivate and inspire participants through ASEAN’s fascinating culinary diversity.