2026 Taiwan Culinary Expo: Hakka Affairs Council Launches 'Taste & Preserve Hakka' Themed Pavilion

The 2026 Taiwan Culinary Expo officially opened today (31st) at Taipei World Trade Center Hall 1. President Lai Qingde, Honorary Chairperson of the Taiwan Tourism Association Yeh Chu-lan, Chairperson Chien Yu-yan, Minister of Transportation Chen Shih-kai, and Director-General of the Tourism Administration Chen Yu-hsiu were among the distinguished guests who visited the Hakka Pavilion, experiencing the profound culinary culture rooted in Hakka village landscapes and time-honored traditions.

The pavilion introduced three signature welcome treats that blend tradition with innovation: the 'Fermented Vegetable Choux' representing the wisdom of 'drying,' the 'Hakka Orange Sauce Braised Snacks' showcasing 'fermentation and sauce-making,' and the 'Malia Red Tea Fufu' echoing the concept of 'terroir.' Through these thoughtfully crafted delicacies, guests were invited to explore the rich and contemporary flavors born from the accumulation of time, land, and human heritage in Hakka communities.

Chef Kuo Min-chang from the Hakka culinary brand 'Dad's Hakka Kitchen' made a special appearance to demonstrate live cooking. The Hakka Affairs Council explained that this year’s pavilion, themed 'Taste & Preserve Hakka,' centers on the core concept of terroir maturation, highlighting how Hakka communities transform the flavors of the land into enduring culinary traditions through time and craftsmanship, viewed through the lenses of 'drying,' 'fermentation,' and 'terroir.'

The opening day featured the 'Three Flavors Intertwined Hakka Banquet,' where Chef Kuo Min-chang presented three signature dishes: 'Fermented Tofu and Orange Sauce Fruit & Vegetable Salad with Salted Pork,' 'Phoenix Sauce Steamed Fish,' and 'Oriental Beauty Tea-Scented Radish Cake.' These refined dishes reinterpreted traditional wisdom into a modern gourmet experience. Additionally, the event showcased the distinctive traditional Hakka dish 'Pan-fried Jiann Gua Zai,' which also made a notable appearance in the recently acclaimed book 'Taiwan Travelogue.'

This year’s Hakka Pavilion brings together high-quality vendors from Hakka communities across Taiwan, offering specialty products. A special exhibition space titled 'Hakka Village Market – A Fun Experience' recreates a traditional market atmosphere, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the diverse ingredients and vibrant culture of Hakka markets.

Daily stage programs throughout the exhibition include 'Hakka Celebrities Guide the Way / Master Chefs Serve – Taiwan Travelogue,' 'Award-Winning Hakka Eateries,' 'Hakka Fusion Cuisine,' and vendor promotion sessions.

Exclusive on-site promotions are also available: visitors who spend over NT$1,288 will receive a limited-edition 'Taste & Preserve Hakka' insulated tote bag. Event participants also have a chance to win other premium gifts.

The public is warmly invited to visit the '2026 Taiwan Culinary Expo – Taste & Preserve Hakka Pavilion' (Booth A305) from July 31 to August 3 at Taipei World Trade Center Hall 1. Explore Hakka culture and terroir through your taste buds and savor the authentic, heartfelt flavors from Hakka villages.