Inspiring exchange as the world’s flavours met in Macao
It was an inspiring encounter with global gastronomy for two of the county’s chefs when they took part in the Macao International Gastronomy Fest in March this year. Maria Magnusson, Brasserie Kerstin in Bruksvallarna, and Anna Nyberg, Fjällkonditoriet in Myrviken, not only had the chance to try new flavours and make new contacts, but also the opportunity to present a dish each to an international audience in the form of show cooking.
During a few intense days in Macao, the two chefs Maria Magnusson and Anna Nyberg from the region had the opportunity to represent Jämtland Härjedalen on the international food scene. The programme included show cooking, among other things.
Working in an international team was exciting, and we were positively surprised by the support we received. Among other things, we got help from three students to take care of the preparations, Maria and Anna say.
The preparation of their two dishes—a flötgröt and a princess cake with a taste of the forest—was greatly appreciated by both the audience and the organisers. Even though they themselves would have liked the chance to discuss plating and content a little earlier in order to further sharpen their stage presentation.
Unexpected and new flavours
The collaboration in the kitchen, where they had the chance to taste and learn from other participants, is what both Maria and Anna feel gave them the most from the exchange. But they are also taking with them the memory of some entirely new flavour experiences;
– The Saudi rice with rose water was an unexpected and fascinating combination!
Another memorable moment was when a tip about a kitchen shop, via a garage and an industrial lift, led to an unexpected treasure trove. High above the city streets.
– That excursion really symbolises the whole trip—surprising, educational and full of opportunities!
If returning to the event becomes an option, both are keen to make it a longer stay and try running their own food sales.
– The atmosphere around the food stalls was fantastic. It seemed both fun and profitable, so we would like to try that.
Inspiring and well-organised event
Both Maria and Anna agree that the Macao International Gastronomy Fest felt well organised and gave a very positive overall impression.
– The biggest challenge was the long journey!
Despite the long journey, both see clear benefits from the visit and are taking home experience, confidence and new ways of working to Sweden. They also highlight how greater participation by Swedish chefs could strengthen both the network and the sense of community within it.
– This is truly something we recommend. You grow, you get inspired, and you feel part of something bigger.
Read more about international exchanges:
Facts
The chefs
Maria Magnusson
Brasserie Kerstin in Bruksvallarna
Dish: Flötgröt
Anna Nyberg
Fjällkonditoriet Myrviken
Dish: Princess cake with a taste of the forest
International Cities
of Gastronomy Fest, Macao
Location: Macao, China – near Hong Kong in the rapidly growing Greater Bay Area
Status: UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy since 2017
When: 20–29 March 2026
Visitors: approx. 100,000 participants over nine days
Organiser: Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO)
Macao is a global destination with around 42 million tourists annually. The city’s gastronomic profile is characterised by a unique blend of Portuguese and Chinese influences after 500 years as a Portuguese colony.
The festival brings together representatives from UNESCO’s network of Cities of Gastronomy – this year, delegates from 28 cities worldwide took part. The aim is to highlight the history and future of food culture and contribute to sustainable urban development through creativity.
Main features:
