The Mekong region's rich culinary diversity will be celebrated at the upcoming Mekong Food Festival (MFF) in Phnom Penh from September 17 to 19, 2024. This inaugural event brings together hospitality schools from Laos, Myanmar, Vietnam, Thailand, and Cambodia, with each school represented by three young chefs showcasing their cooking skills and unique native ingredients. Renowned celebrity chef Bobby Chinn will oversee the festival, leading cooking demonstrations alongside the students.

The festival includes a Cocktail Event on September 18, where attendees can sample innovative culinary creations that blend traditional Mekong flavors with modern techniques. The celebration will conclude with the White Hats Gala Dinner on September 19 at the Raffles Hotel Le Royal. The dinner, featuring a collaborative menu by Bobby Chinn and Cambodian chef Luu Meng, aims to raise funds for the Naomi Scholarship Fund, supporting disadvantaged youth in hospitality careers.

High-ranking officials, including H.E. Hun Many, H.E. Dr. Hangchuon Naron, and H.E. Dr. Sok Siphanna, will preside over the gala, highlighting the event’s significance for Cambodia’s hospitality industry. The festival, backed by partners like Emirates Airlines and Dubai Cares Foundation, aims to enhance training standards across hospitality schools in the Mekong region, promoting opportunities for young culinary talents.

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