Azerbaijan’s rich culinary heritage and vibrant cultural traditions captured the spotlight at the 13th International Culinary Culture Festival in Hanoi, delighting visitors with an immersive taste of the country’s flavors and history.
The Embassy of Azerbaijan’s booth captivated crowds, inviting visitors to discover its cultural and culinary highlights. Photo courtesy of the embassy
Currently taking place in downtown Hanoi, the annual charity-driven festival, organised by Vietnam’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, once again transforms the capital into a vibrant crossroads of global culture.
The Azerbaijani pavilion immediately stood out with an engaging display of souvenirs and historical photographs, inviting guests to explore meaningful milestones in the long-standing friendship between Vietnam and Azerbaijan.
Highlights included portraits commemorating the 1983 visit of national leader Heydar Aliyev to Vietnam, President Ho Chi Minh’s 1959 trip to Baku, and the recent meeting between Vietnamese Communist Party General Secretary To Lam and Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev during To Lam’s state visit to Baku in May. This thoughtful curation provided a cultural and historical backdrop that enriched the culinary experience awaiting visitors.
From history, guests were naturally drawn into the aromas of Azerbaijani cuisine, where traditional dishes were prepared on-site by Sahib-David Israfilov, a celebrated Azerbaijani chef and vice president of the World Barbecue Association (WBQA). As an official judge of the World Association of Chefs Societies (WACS), Israfilov brought both expertise and artistry to festival-goers as he introduced signature dishes such as gutab, dolma, pilaf, kebabs and fragrant Azerbaijani tea. His presence not only elevated the culinary showcase but also offered visitors a rare opportunity to watch masterful cooking techniques up close.
Thanks to this vibrant fusion of culture, history and gastronomy, the Azerbaijani pavilion became one of the most visited destinations at the event, attracting enthusiastic interest from local residents, international tourists and members of the diplomatic community. Its popularity reflected the broader energy of the 2025 festival, which brought together 128 booths, including representatives from 50 embassies, 20 provincial foreign affairs departments, as well as international organizations and businesses.
Over two days, the festival welcomed nearly 20,000 visitors, underscoring its growing appeal as one of Hanoi’s premier cultural gatherings. The event concluded on a heartfelt note, reaffirming its mission of cultural exchange and humanitarian support, with proceeds dedicated to aiding communities affected by natural disasters.
Through shared food, stories and traditions, the festival once again strengthened the bonds between Vietnam and its international partners that Azerbaijan standing proudly among them.
