Hanoi to host 2025 International Culinary Festival celebrating global and Vietnamese flavors

THE HANOI TIMES — The 2025 International Culinary Culture Festival with the theme “Trip of Flavors” will take place on November 22–23 at the Diplomatic Corps Area, 298 Kim Ma Street, Ba Dinh Ward, Hanoi.

The annual event honors the rich values of Vietnamese and world cuisine, serving as a platform to promote cultural diplomacy, tourism and international cooperation while spreading the image of a friendly, creative and globally connected Vietnam.

This year’s festival features nearly 120 culinary booths from embassies, consulates, foreign cultural centers, local foreign affairs departments and major enterprises.

Visitors can enjoy Hanoi specialties such as pho (noodle soup), Uoc Le sausage and Phu Thuong sticky rice.

According to Hoang Thu Nga, Deputy Head of the Organizing Committee, the festival tells stories about cuisine that demonstrate connection without borders.

“Through cuisine, we can highlight each country’s culture. We want to show that Hanoi, Vietnam is a place of warmth, peace and friendship. The festival brings together embassies from all continents and cultures to share and exchange, creating a unique and welcoming cultural space,” she said.

Different from previous editions, this year’s festival marks a major change in organization and experience. For the first time, the event introduces digital technology with a “Digital Interactive Corner”, allowing visitors to access program details, view event maps and explore signature dishes from participating countries.

Artisan Le Thi Thiet, Standing Member of the Vietnam Culinary Culture Association, said this year’s highlight is the live cooking demonstrations by international chefs. Vietnamese chefs will also showcase distinctive dishes from the country’s three regions to attract global visitors.

In an interview with The Hanoi Times, Elena Bezdetko, spouse of the Russian Ambassador to Vietnam, shared her delight at joining the event, where Russian culture and signature dishes were showcased to Vietnamese and international audiences.

“Our menu includes Russian salad, grilled meat, Pelmeni dumplings and smoked butter with black bread. These dishes, prepared by female embassy staff, reflect the warmth, openness and hospitality of the Russian Embassy.” she said.