There is no doubt that Hong Kong is a fantastic destination for a foodie. It has a great combination of established, Michelin-starred restaurants that offer fine fare and humble street stalls that can turn dining on your feet into an amazing experience. The annual Hong Kong Wine & Dine Festival is a celebration of this fusion. It is now in its ninth year and will take place in 2017 over four days – from the 26th to the 29th of October.
Returning to the fantastic skyline and sea views of Victoria Harbour’s Central Waterfront, this year’s festival is a collection of over 400 booths that will showcase the best in food and drink to cater to the most selective gastrophile and oenophile. Several acclaimed chefs will make an appearance, and the schedule includes tastings, talks, forums and instructional courses.
However, entry is not restricted to the passionate and the zealous – if you are more of a sampler and light taster, there are more than enough opportunities to get a taste of local and international cuisine. If you are visiting as a tourist, the Trendy Food Zone is the best and fastest way to get an introduction to Hong Kong cuisine during the celebrations.
Entry is a very enticing HK$30 (less than US$4) per person and allows you access to not just Hong Kong’s delectable kitchen creations, but inspired imaginings to tempt the palate from around the region and across the world. The admission fee is halved for children between 3 and 12, seniors (those above 65), full-time students and people with disabilities. Entry is free for kids under the age of 3.
For those who wish to indulge in their passion for wine, there are special wine passes. The Classic Wine Pass Lite, Classic Wine Pass and Grand Wine Pass are priced at HK$100, HK$200 and HK$600 (about $10, $20 and $60) respectively. The last gives you access to the Grand Wine Pavilion and the liquid treasures within.
It is not just about wine and food; live music creates a lovely atmosphere which makes a day of discovery by the water an even more enjoyable affair. The festival begins on Tuesday, the 26th and is open from 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. On the 27th and the 28th, it runs from noon to 11:30 p.m. The final day of the festival sees the doors open at noon and the festival ends at 10 p.m. Tickets sales and admissions cease half an hour before closing time on each of the four days.
The city that loves food is celebrating its passion – you should definitely join the party.
