Italian flavours toast Việt Nam with culture and health
First launched in 2016 by Italy’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, the global initiative highlights the excellence of Italian gastronomy and its contribution to international dialogue on food, sustainability, and well-being.
HÀ NỘI — The Embassy of Italy in Hà Nội is serving up a feast for the senses with the 10th Week of Italian Cuisine in Việt Nam, celebrating the country’s rich culinary heritage and its growing role in promoting health, culture and innovation.
First launched in 2016 by Italy’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, the global initiative highlights the excellence of Italian gastronomy and its contribution to international dialogue on food, sustainability and well-being. This year’s theme, Italian Cooking: health, culture and innovation, underscores how traditional Italian cuisine continues to evolve, blending centuries-old culinary practices with creativity, research and modern techniques.
The 2025 edition is also inspired by Italy’s nomination of its cuisine for UNESCO’s List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The candidacy celebrates the Italian philosophy of transforming simple, high-quality ingredients into a shared cultural identity — a way of life where food is both nourishment and a social bond.
In Hà Nội, the programme brings to life quintessential symbols of Italian culture, from bread and flour to wine and the timeless ritual of the aperitivo. Each activity highlights not only Italy’s culinary traditions but also the country’s modern approach to food science and sustainability.
This year’s programme features a masterclass titled From Wheat to the Oven: The Art of Italian Breadmaking – A Masterclass in Tradition and Innovation, held in collaboration with Molino Casillo and Pegasus International College on November 17–18. The session will explore both artisanal breadmaking techniques and the science behind balanced nutrition. It is reserved for guests.
On November 21, the Italian Touch, The Art of Aperitivo event will bring together the flavours and atmosphere of Italy’s aperitivo culture at the Apricot Hotel, also for guests.
The week concludes with the Casa Italia Wine Festival 2025, organised by the Italian Chamber of Commerce in Việt Nam (ICHAM). Open to the public, the festival will take place on November 22 at Casa Italia, offering visitors the chance to experience a wide selection of Italian wines from 10am to 10pm. — VNS
