If playback is interrupted, you can restart it.
TAIPEI, Taiwan– The Guam Visitors Bureau (GVB) introduced the island’s rich CHamoru culinary traditions to thousands of visitors during the 2026 Tianmu Festival in Taipei, strengthening Guam’s tourism presence in one of its key Asian source markets.
Held on July 18–19, the annual festival attracted more than 200,000 attendees and over 100 food and beverage vendors, providing a major platform for Guam to showcase its culture through food, live demonstrations, and community engagement.
GVB partnered with Capitol Kitchen, led by Guam chef Casey Castro, and Taipei-based SEMI CLUBto present authentic CHamoru flavors to festival-goers. The collaboration featured a special menu inspired by Guam’s traditional cuisine, offering Taiwanese visitors an opportunity to experience the island’s culinary heritage while learning more about Guam as a travel destination.
“Food is one of the most meaningful ways to connect people with our island,” said Régine Biscoe Lee, President and CEO of the Guam Visitors Bureau. “Partnerships like this allow us to share Guam’s rich CHamoru culture authentically, connect directly, and invite Taiwanese travelers to discover our island firsthand.”
Guam also took part in the festival’s opening ceremony, where attendees joined in the traditional CHamoru celebratory cheer, “BIBA.” Taipei City Mayor Chiang Wan-An and members of his delegation visited the Guam pavilion and sampled several signature dishes prepared by Chef Castro.
Throughout the event, Chef Castro and the SEMI CLUB culinary team conducted live cooking demonstrations featuring traditional favorites, including the Hågun Suni Bowl, Kelaguen Wraps, and a Fiesta Plate Beef Burger topped with Dinanche Sauce. Visitors also participated in interactive activities designed to introduce Guam’s history, culture, and hospitality.
Chef Castro, owner and executive chef of Capitol Kitchen, worked closely with SEMI CLUB to recreate authentic CHamoru flavors while adapting selected recipes for Taiwanese diners. Following the festival, the partnership will continue with a limited-time Guam-inspired menu at SEMI CLUB. The restaurant’s signature Fiesta Plate Beef Burger with Dinanche Sauce will remain available for one month, extending the cultural exchange beyond the festival.
Culinary tourism has become an increasingly influential factor in destination choice, with travelers seeking authentic local food experiences as part of their journeys. By highlighting CHamoru cuisine at one of Taipei’s largest outdoor festivals, GVB aims to strengthen awareness of Guam’s unique cultural identity and inspire more Taiwanese travelers to visit the island.
Taiwan remains an important tourism market for Guam, and initiatives that combine food, culture, and community engagement continue to play a growing role in the destination’s international marketing strategy.
Leave a Comment