Exploring Culinary Innovation at the 28th Annual Worlds of Flavor Conference

Dive into the Culinary Delight at the Worlds of Flavor®

The Culinary Institute of America (CIA) is set to host the 28th annual Worlds of Flavor® International Conference and Festival from November 4-6, 2026. This vibrant event is an invitation to food enthusiasts, chefs, and professionals to explore the latest trends in East and Southeast Asian cuisines. This year's theme celebrates the rich culinary legacies of countries such as Japan, Korea, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam.

As chefs from around the world gather in Napa, California, attendees can look forward to a groundbreaking lineup of sessions focusing on how these culinary traditions influence global dining experiences. Led by renowned chefs and food writers, the conference promises to be a fusion of cultural storytelling, culinary education, and hands-on demonstrations designed for practical application in today's culinary landscape.

Exploring Culinary Heritage

One of the opening sessions, "A Journey Begins: Heritage, Culture, and the Cuisines of Asia," features Khir Johari, a prominent food ethnographer, and Naoyuki Yanagihara, a scholar from Tokyo's Yanagihara School of Traditional Japanese Cuisine. Together, they will delve deep into the values and traditions intrinsic to Asian cuisines, igniting discussions on how these influences permeate modern culinary practices.

Korean Culinary Influences

Etser Choi, the dynamic chef behind New York's Mŏkbar, and Monica Lee, owner of the popular Beverly Soon Tofu in Los Angeles, will present "Korean Comfort: From Seoul to the American Table." This session will highlight the comfort foods that build bridges between cultures and foster community connections, demonstrating how Korean cuisine continues to resonate with the American palate.

Vibrant Flavors of Southeast Asia

Further enriching the program, Emily Lim, a chef from Singapore, and Alex Ong, Director of Culinary Excellence at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, will host a session on utilizing outdoor live fire cooking to showcase Singaporean street food. Their demonstration will explore innovative ways to adapt traditional flavors for a modern audience.

In addition to the core program, participants will have the opportunity to learn from various other distinguished chefs, including but not limited to Kyle Connaughton of SingleThread in California and Viet Hong from CieL in Vietnam. The conference provides a platform for exploring fresh ideas and potential collaborations among chefs of varying expertise.

Special Pop-up Dinner

A must-visit adjacent to the conference is the exclusive pop-up dinner hosted by celebrated chef Nini Nguyen. This Top Chef favorite will host a multi-course dinner on November 5, featuring dishes from her highly-anticipated cookbook, Đặc Biệt An Extra Special Vietnamese Cookbook. Attendees can engage with Nguyen during a VIP meet and greet following the dinner service.

Why Attend?

The Worlds of Flavor Conference invites chefs and foodservice professionals from various sectors, be it independent restaurants or large chains. This event is not only a chance to gain inspiration but also a wonderful opportunity to network within the booming culinary community while expanding knowledge on the depths of East and Southeast Asian cuisine.

So mark your calendars for an exhilarating three days of cultural and culinary exchange at the Culinary Institute of America’s Copia. To learn more or to register, visit www.worldsofflavor.com.

About the Culinary Institute of America

Founded in 1946, the Culinary Institute of America remains a pioneer in culinary education, focusing on developing leaders in food and hospitality. With various degree programs, executive education opportunities, and a vast global network of alumni, CIA is a hub for aspiring chefs and industry veterans alike. It fosters innovation and excellence, both in the classroom and beyond.