Shillong: Meghalaya is poised to become a haven for food enthusiasts as its tourism department, in collaboration with Meghalayan Age Ltd, announces ‘Culinary Cascade 2025’.
This highly anticipated three-day food festival will unfold at the picturesque Ward’s Lake in Shillong from May 1st to 3rd, promising a rich tapestry of the state’s culinary heritage.
From noon until 8 pm daily, the festival grounds will transform into a vibrant marketplace showcasing the diverse and unique food traditions of Meghalaya. A central theme of the event is to foster sustainability and cultivate stronger connections between those who consume and those who produce, with a significant emphasis on the region’s indigenous ingredients and time-honored cooking techniques, alongside contemporary culinary innovations.
Attendees can look forward to an impressive array of local producers, including pioneers in hydroponic farming, aromatic spice growers, and artisanal beverage crafters. The festival will offer a delectable journey through the flavors of Khasi, Jaintia, and Garo communities, complemented by locally sourced brews and aromatic coffee, providing a true taste of Meghalaya.
The culinary landscape of the festival will be further enriched by live cooking demonstrations led by a blend of international and homegrown talent. Notably, Jason White, renowned for his tenure at the Michelin-starred Noma, will share his expertise alongside the celebrated local chef Ahmedaki Laloo of A’origins. They will be joined by representatives from culinary institutes, esteemed food writers, and practitioners dedicated to preserving traditional cooking methods such as fermentation and smoking.
Street food aficionados will be delighted by a diverse selection ranging from beloved local delicacies like dohsnam and ktung to popular global trends such as ramen and boba, as well as innovative progressive baking. The event will also delve into the evolution of food through engaging discussions and displays of traditional culinary tools and vessels, offering a glimpse into the past and future of Meghalayan gastronomy.
Adding an insightful dimension to the festivities, a specially curated documentary screening will explore the underlying philosophy of ‘Culinary Cascade 2025’ – a harmonious blend of food, culture, environmental consciousness, and community engagement.
With free entry for all, ‘Culinary Cascade 2025’, set against the stunning backdrop of Ward’s Lake and featuring live music alongside the enticing array of food and local crafts, is poised to be a significant cultural highlight for Meghalaya this year, inviting everyone to partake in this celebration of taste and tradition.
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