Govt mulls applying to UNESCO to list HK as 'City of Gastronomy'

The government intends to examine the experiences of other cities that have been recognized as the "City of Gastronomy" by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) to pursue the same title for Hong Kong, said the tourism chief.

Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism Rosanna Law Shuk-pui noted that six out of around 50 "Cities of Gastronomy" are in China, including Chengdu, Shunde, Macau, Yangzhou, Huai'an and Chaozhou.

She highlighted that Hong Kong boasts over 200 Michelin-starred or recommended restaurants and two are on the list of "The World's 50 Best Restaurants." 

Hong Kong has also won the top spot in Asia's 50 Best Bars for four consecutive years, Law added.

Her comment came after lawmakers suggested Hong Kong apply for the title of "City of Gastronomy" from the United Nations.

Meituan Dianping -- the mainland lifestyle portal with 800 million users -- recognized 39 Hong Kong restaurants in its "Must-Eat List" last August while hosting the Announcement and Award Ceremony in the city, showcasing its culinary excellence.

Currently, there are approximately 50 Cities of Gastronomy under the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN), including Jeonju in South Korea, Rouen in France and Tsuruoka in Japan.