This year, in November 2025, Chef Li Shujun, executive chef at Restaurant Yutangchunnuan in the White Swan Hotel, invites us on a mouthwatering tour of the Greater Bay Area. From the banks of the Pearl River to modern open kitchens, he shows how local communities turn fresh produce and centuries-old recipes into every bite.
One River, Infinite Stories
The Pearl River Delta has long linked Guangdong on the Chinese mainland, Hong Kong, and Macao. More than 70 million residents rely on its waterways for trade, travel, and, of course, the freshest seafood. Today, high-speed ferries and smart logistics networks ensure ingredients flow smoothly from coastal farms to city tables.
Three Culinary Traditions
- Cantonese cuisine: delicate dim sum, live seafood, and light sauces that highlight natural flavors
- Teochew cuisine: clear broths, artisanal tofu, and signature marinated meats
- Hakka cuisine: robust stews, preserved specialties, and hand-pulled noodles reflecting a migrant heritage
According to a regional food service report released this year, fusion kitchens in the GBA grew by 25% in 2025, as young chefs blend these traditions with global techniques like sous-vide and farm-to-table sourcing.
Innovation Meets Heritage
At Restaurant Yutangchunnuan, Chef Li’s steamed flower crab in aged Huadiao wine marinade feels timeless yet fresh. Diners can scan a QR code to trace each ingredient back to its village of origin, an initiative that supports local fishers and farmers while satisfying a tech-savvy audience.
A Journey for the Curious
Digital nomads and travelers can chart a week-long itinerary: start with dim sum in Guangzhou, savor beef hotpot in Chaozhou, explore Hong Kong’s dai pai dong stalls, and cap it off with pastel de nata in Macao. Rent an e-bike along riverfront promenades, dine at pop-up night markets, and join sustainable harvest experiences on oyster farms.
Whether you’re a foodie, entrepreneur, or explorer, the Greater Bay Area’s shared flavors deliver a taste of history, innovation, and cross-border connection—one river, three traditions, and endless possibilities.
Reference(s):
Shared Flavors of the Greater Bay Area: 1 river, 3 culinary traditions
cgtn.com
