Binh Thuan Cuisine in the Eyes of Japanese Tourists

Exciting Competitions

The Binh Thuan Delicacies Contest was held in the luxurious and beautiful setting of Bikini Beach, where the blue sea and golden sunshine create a perfect backdrop for a culinary exploration. Talented chefs showcased traditional dishes and unique specialties of Binh Thuan, from the flavors of the ocean to the rich local ingredients.

Each dish was meticulously prepared, both visually appealing and flavorful, promising memorable culinary experiences. Not only were the chefs skilled in cooking, but their seamless and refined combination of ingredients won the hearts of both domestic and international tourists.

Ms. Pauline, an Australian tourist, expressed her surprise at the ongoing chef competition. “The contest is wonderful, and the food is very appealing. I have tried Vietnamese food in Melbourne, but here, I particularly love the seafood; it looks beautiful and enticing.”

Many guests praised the chefs as they witnessed the cooking competitions among chefs from various restaurants, hotels, and resorts. They enjoyed a variety of delicious and distinctive dishes made from the rich ingredients of Binh Thuan, allowing the chefs to freely create dishes that can only be found here.

Mr. Tsunoda (in white shirt, from left)

Mr. Tsunoda, General Director of Kewpie Vietnam and a Japanese national, stated, “The chefs have balanced the strengths and flavors of the ingredients, and the presentation of the menu is very beautiful. For Japanese people, when thinking of Binh Thuan cuisine, they will think of delicious types of fish, fish sauce, and dragon fruit. These ingredients pair very well with Kewpie’s dressing sauces.”

42 chefs from 21 renowned restaurants and hotels from various provinces showcased their talents within 120 minutes, preparing both appetizers and main dishes. The competing dishes were required to include a presentation that explained the arrangement, layout, and display of the dish, as well as an introduction to the ingredients used, the cooking process, and the significance of the dish’s name.

As a judge and taster, Mr. Tsunoda affirmed, “The chefs have balanced the strengths and flavors of the ingredients, and the presentation of the menu is very beautiful. The combination of Binh Thuan’s ingredients with Kewpie sauce is delicious. I was particularly impressed with the grilled tuna dish paired with Kewpie sauce. Tuna is an ingredient familiar to Japan, so I find this combination very unique.”

Mr. Oyama Kansuke, who closely followed the chefs’ competition and tasted each dish, expressed his admiration, saying, “It’s very delicious. Your seamless combination of fresh, unique ingredients from Binh Thuan has created truly outstanding dishes.”