A taste of Taiwan in Chennai

Chennai, July 9:

The Taipei Economic and Cultural Center (TECC) in Chennai brought a burst of Taiwanese flavor to South India through the 2025 Taiwan Culinary Arts International Tour, held on July 8 at Zhouyu Restaurant and July 9 at SRM Institute of Hotel Management. Organized by Taiwan’s Overseas Community Affairs Council (OCAC) and guided by the newly appointed Director General Mr. Stephen S.C. Hsu, the event celebrated the 30th anniversary of TECC in India and marked a milestone in Taiwan-India relations, especially  cultural and people-to-people’s exchanges.

For the first time, Taiwan’s international culinary tour — typically held in the U.S., Europe, and Southeast Asia — arrived in South India. Despite challenges in sourcing authentic ingredients, the event succeeded in delivering a rich culinary experience, underlining DG Hsu’s belief that food is a “universal language” that connects people and cultures. He also expressed hopes of seeing more Taiwanese restaurants open in Chennai in the near future.

The event was graced by dignitaries including Mr. S.Vijayakumar IFS, Regional Passport Officer Chennai/from the Ministry of External Affairs, Ms. Chindi Varadarajulu of Zhouyu Restaurant, Mr. Eric Chang, President of the Taiwan Chamber of Commerce, Mr. Chozha Naachiar, President of the Tamil Nadu Chamber of Commerce, Dr. C. Muthamizhchelan, Vice Chancellor of SRMIST, and Dr. Rajat Gupta,Vice Chancellor from Vel Tech, alongside members of the Friends of Taiwan Alumni Association and hospitality students.

Renowned Taiwanese chefs Chef LI, Chia-Chi and Chef LIAO, Tai-Chun led the culinary demonstrations, wowing audiences with signature dishes like Three Cup Chicken, Steamed Shrimp with Garlic Sauce, and Crispy Tofu with Fresh Fish. Chef LI’s illustrious background and international awards added prestige to the occasion, turning the kitchen into a stage for cross-cultural storytelling.

The event was a collaborative effort between TECC, SRMIST, the Taiwan Chamber of Commerce, Taiwan Maami, and Taiwan Education Center. With over 250 participants, the tour became more than a tasting session — it was a celebration of friendship, learning, and shared heritage.

As TECC Chennai celebrates three decades of presence, this culinary initiative marks a flavorful new beginning in Taiwan-India relations — reminding us that through food, bonds are strengthened and cultures come closer.