'Sao Chọn' Reality Show to Explore Vietnam's Culinary Culture

The reality show 'Sao Chọn' (Chosen Stars), dedicated to exploring Vietnam's rich culinary culture and regional diversity, is set to debut as part of Vietnam iContent 2026. The program will run from August to November, featuring 10 episodes, each approximately 40 minutes long. 'Sao Chọn' aims to go beyond typical food review shows, using cuisine as a lens to introduce the culture, people, and unique values of various regions across Vietnam. The show will feature a lineup of renowned artists, influencers, inspirational figures, and popular hosts who will embark on a journey from North to South, experiencing the culinary delights of each locality. The program's concept is structured in three steps. First, in the 'Nomination' phase, chefs from the Vietnam Culinary Professional Training and Employment Association (VICA) and celebrities will propose dishes in three main categories: street food, family cuisine, and fine dining, along with suitable locations for the show. Second, during the 'Experience' phase, invited guests will visit two to three selected locations in each region, savoring characteristic flavors and listening to stories from restaurant owners, chefs, or artisans behind each dish. Interspersed within these journeys will be cultural experiences and explorations of local life, offering a vivid and authentic perspective on the values that define the culinary identity of each land. Finally, in the 'Verification' phase, guest representatives will present the 'Sao Chọn' commemorative award to nominated eateries, recognizing their outstanding flavors, quality, cultural identity, and contributions to preserving and promoting local culinary heritage. The production involves the Vietnam Culinary Professional Training and Employment Association (VICA), VnExpress, FPT Online, and T Production, among others. The Vietnam Tourism Development Support Fund and strategic partner Techcombank are also supporting the show. The program's objectives include spreading the spirit of loving the homeland and Vietnamese culture, fostering national pride, encouraging a positive and experience-rich lifestyle, and inspiring individuals to become ambassadors for promoting Vietnam's image to domestic and international friends. Furthermore, the series aligns with the government's Resolution No. 80 on developing Vietnamese culture and its initiative to promote the nation's image through digital media platforms. The 10 provinces and cities to be featured in the culinary exploration, the participating artists, and the hosts for each episode will be announced soon. The show will be broadcast on the travel section of VnExpress and various other digital platforms. Source: VnExpress