With the proliferation of television game shows, culinary culture is an increasingly popular theme. Many culinary game shows are now available, both on television and online platforms, giving audiences more opportunities to learn about traditional dishes from different regions. From these shows, Việt Nam's culinary culture will continue to be spread far and wide, piquing the interest of food and culture lovers.

According to Mr. Khôi Lê, Country Director of Meta's Vietnam market, “Food and travel are always among the most produced and watched content on both our Facebook and Instagram platforms. In addition to connecting Asian content creators, Meta is happy to be able to promote the image of the country, culture, cuisine and friendly Vietnamese people through its platforms such as Facebook and Instagram.”

In addition to game shows about music and models, culinary shows are becoming indispensable for the audience. Thiên Đường Ẩm Thực (Cuisine Paradise), Đấu Trường Ẩm Thực (Cuisine Arena), Muốn Ăn Phải Lăn Vào Bếp (Going to Kitchen if Wanting to Eat), Bản Sao Hoàn Hảo (Perfect Copy), Chuẩn Cơm Mẹ Nấu (Standard Mom's Meal), and Ẩm Thực Kỳ Thú (Wonderful Cuisine) are all shows that attract a high number of viewers. 

Regional dishes are introduced in “Ẩm thực kỳ thú”. Photos baovanhoa.vn

Adventure through cultural regions

With the slogan "Eat for your health, not just to be full" along with a humorous way of running the show and always inviting famous stars to participate, Thiên Đường Ẩm Thực has many million-view clips on social networking platforms right from the first broadcasts. The little-known dishes introduced in the programme have helped the audience better understand the richness and diversity of Vietnamese cuisine. Along with that, a lot of knowledge about healthy eating is also provided to the audience, helping the programme become a quality game show enthusiastically supported by the public.

Similarly, Ẩm Thực Kỳ Thú also conveys vivid images, helping audiences discover the beauty of many regions across the country such as Hà Nội, Sa Pa, Lai Châu, Buôn Ma Thuột and Phan Thiết. These unique and attractive dishes of ethnic groups are widely promoted, and the audience has since pocketed many new recipes to prepare dishes for their families. During the broadcast, Ẩm thực kỳ thú always promotes culinary culture, emphasising the long-standing traditions of Vietnamese cuisine, contributing to bringing the image of local tourism to local and global travellers alike.

Airing on VTV3, Của Ngon Vật Lạ (Delicacies) won the hearts of audience members through its reality and heartwarming aspects. The programme takes the audience on a trip through the small screen to localities to learn about the traditional culture and cuisine typical of these locales. At the studio, families unleash their creativity and love to create new, spontaneous versions of known recipes.

Culinary game shows also strengthen family bonds.

More than entertainment

While reusing an old formula of inviting famous stars, culinary gameshows still attract viewers through the art of presentation, piquing their curiosity and focusing deeply on the unique characteristics of each locality. Producers have recently focused on expanding the audience, specifically aimed to expand their young audience. Some programmes such as Thiên đường ẩm thực, Street Food Stories and Amazing Vietnam add English subtitles for foreign audiences to enjoy. These shows always have sky-high ratings without the need for drama or prime time.

One of the factors that make game shows about culinary culture successful is clearly the "reality" aspect. Without trying too hard at comedy, the familiar situations and challenges presented in the programme bring emotions and satisfy viewers. At the same time, the difficulties that the guests encounter are realistic. Many of the challenges are things people face every day, so it's easy for viewers to sympathise.

In terms of content, many game shows in this segment also help audiences form healthy eating and living habits to improve their health. During the process of preparing dishes, guests always try to incorporate tips to enhance flavour and make the result more nutritious. Many viewers shared that after watching the show, they felt more "in love with home cooking", and wanted to prepare meals for their families themselves. Culinary culture is also honoured and enhanced from here through stories about the origin and meaning of each dish. VNS