
Star Chefs Jordy Navarra and Varun Totlani to Headline Macao’s 2025 Gastronomy Forum
Two of Asia’s most celebrated chefs—Jordy Navarra of the Philippines and Varun Totlani of India—will take center stage as keynote speakers at this year’s International Gastronomy Forum in Macao. The announcement was made by the Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO) as part of its lead-up to the 2025 International Cities of Gastronomy Fest.Set for July 14, the forum will explore the culinary and cultural value of herbs and spices, drawing on the diverse traditions represented by the speakers. Navarra helms Toyo Eatery in Manila, while Totlani leads the kitchen at Masque in Mumbai. Both chefs received Best Chef Awards in 2024, and their restaurants rank 42nd and 19th respectively on Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants list.
A Meeting of Global Culinary Minds in Macao
The International Gastronomy Forum will welcome representatives from approximately 30 cities recognized as UNESCO Creative Cities of Gastronomy. Culinary professionals, resort executives, and gastronomy scholars will come together to explore the festival’s theme, “The Spice of Life: Macao’s Culinary Connections.”In addition to the keynote sessions, the forum includes three expert-led panels featuring 15 distinguished figures from across Asia’s food and beverage industry. Panel discussions will be conducted in English, with free admission and simultaneous interpretation services provided. The sessions will run from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Convention and Exhibition Centre in Macau Fisherman’s Wharf.
More Than a Forum: A Full Culinary Festival
The Gastronomy Forum is part of the broader International Cities of Gastronomy Fest, which returns for its second edition from July 11 to 20. Among the festival’s highlights is the International Gastronomy Promenade—a bustling showcase of over 100 food stalls featuring global and local fare. The promenade opens from 3:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. on weekdays and extends until 11:30 p.m. on weekends.Recognized by UNESCO in 2017 as a Creative City of Gastronomy, Macao continues to cement its status as a global culinary destination through signature events like this. The city’s distinctive blend of Macanese cuisine, international culinary partnerships, and large-scale food events make it a vibrant hub for chefs, food lovers, and cultural ambassadors alike.