Culinary Institute of America Spotlights East and Southeast Asian Cuisine Trends at 28th Worlds of Flavor Conference
Event summary
- The 28th annual Worlds of Flavor International Conference and Festival will take place from November 4–6, 2026, in Napa, California.
- The event will focus on the culinary trends and cultural influences of Japan, Korea, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam.
- Over 20 chefs, food writers, researchers, and food and beverage professionals will present at the conference.
- A pop-up dinner featuring Chef Nini Nguyen will be held adjacent to the conference on November 5, 2026.
The big picture
The Culinary Institute of America's Worlds of Flavor conference underscores the growing global influence of East and Southeast Asian cuisines. As consumer demand for authentic and innovative dining experiences rises, the event serves as a platform for culinary professionals to exchange ideas and adapt traditional flavors for new audiences. The conference highlights the strategic importance of cultural heritage in shaping modern gastronomy, positioning the CIA as a leader in culinary education and trend forecasting.
What we're watching
- Culinary Innovation
- How the blending of traditional and modern culinary techniques will influence global food trends.
- Market Expansion
- Whether the increased interest in East and Southeast Asian cuisines will drive growth in the foodservice industry.
- Cultural Impact
- The pace at which cultural storytelling through food will become a key differentiator for restaurants.