Chef Expo 2026 to Promote Indonesian Flavors to the World

Chef Expo 2026 serves as a platform to introduce Indonesian cuisine to the international community. The event, taking place from May 6-9, 2026 at NICE PIK 2, features renowned chefs, culinary industry players, and food enthusiasts from various regions.

Tourism Minister Widiyanti Putri Wardhana stated that Chef Expo 2026 is not merely a food exhibition, but also a collaborative space to strengthen Indonesia's image and flavors globally.

Over four days, visitors can witness various cooking demonstrations of Nusantara cuisine by famous chefs including Chef Juna, Chandra Yudasswara, Sisca Soewitomo, Chef Axhiang, and Chef Mutho.

Beyond cooking demos, Chef Expo 2026 also hosts competitions for both professional and junior chefs. Contests include Indonesian cuisine, cake decoration, fruit carving, modern plated desserts, and a Black Box Challenge judged by Chef Juna and Chef Ragil.

According to the Tourism Minister, culinary arts are closely tied to tourism. Many tourists visit countries specifically to experience authentic local cuisine and understand cultural traditions.

"The archipelago's gastronomic culture and Indonesian Tourism are inseparable. The more popular Indonesian food becomes, the greater Indonesia's appeal as a global Tourist Destination," said the Minister.

Widiyanti believes Indonesia has significant potential to become a global gastronomic powerhouse due to its rich spices, diverse cultures, and culinary traditions.

International recognition of Indonesian cuisine continues to grow. Global accolades like the New Destination Champion Awards 2026 from La Liste and Top 10 Best Cuisine in the World 2025 by Taste Atlas demonstrate Indonesian food's expanding worldwide recognition.

The Minister noted that Indonesia's culinary popularity enables more Indonesian Restaurants to establish internationally.

This development is expected to create new employment opportunities for Indonesian culinary professionals while attracting more foreign tourists to Indonesia.

"Ultimately, this will generate multiplier effects for the national economy through accommodation bookings, transportation, souvenirs, and food products," stated the Minister.

The government continuously strengthens Indonesian Gastronomy through programs like "Serasa," which aims to increase authentic Indonesian restaurants abroad.

Additionally, the Ministry of Tourism's Wonderful Indonesia Gastronomy program promotes tourism destinations and culinary offerings through integrated forums, SME promotions, media trips, and culinary events.

During the event, the Minister witnessed the signing of a collaboration between Indonesian Chef Association and CrescentRating to enhance halal gastronomy through the Certified Halal Gourmet Chef program and Halal Trip Gastronomy Awards 2026.