The Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) successfully held the first activation in its pioneering three-year global partnership with Art Basel from 18 to 20 October in Paris, France.
The HKTB welcomed visitors from all over the world to its Cha Chaan Teng, a Hong Kong-style café, within the Grand Palais for a three-day period.
Regarding this initiative, HKTB executive director Dane Cheng said: “It has been a pleasure to witness the enjoyment of visitors trying the authentic culinary offerings as well as appreciating the new installation by Trevor Yeung. We look forward to welcoming more fair attendees to immerse themselves in Hong Kong’s unique culture, and hopefully welcome them to Hong Kong in the near future.”
Art Basel Hong Kong director Angelle Siyang-Le added: “This showcase features Cha Chaan Teng as a quintessential diner concept that evokes Hong Kong’s rich culinary history and cultural diversity for our international guests. The Cha Chaan Teng is beautifully illuminated by a light installation from our local artist, Trevor Yeung, who proudly represents Hong Kong at this year’s Venice Biennale. This holistic presentation underscores the vital connection between artists and their local cultures. We eagerly anticipate welcoming guests to explore Art Basel Hong Kong next March and to experience the city’s vibrant and expanding cultural landscape.”
A taste of Hong Kong in Paris
This Hong Kong-style café delighted visitors at Art Basel with its vibrant atmosphere and authentic cuisine.
Visitors to the HKTB Cha Chaan Teng enjoyed an array of Hong Kong delicacies including roasted pork ‘char siu’ with rice, pineapple buns, egg tarts, mango pudding, and ‘Yuen Yang’ milk tea.
The dining space was embellished with a special illuminated chandelier-like art installation by Hong Kong-based artist Trevor Yeung.
This new artwork forms part of Yeung’s Chaotic Suns series, last seen at the 24th Biennale of Sydney (2024), perfectly illuminating the traditional décor of the cha chaan teng, with cosy booth seating and eclectic floor tiles.
The positioning of the Cha Chaan Teng within the locality of Paris encapsulates Hong Kong’s intrinsic ‘East-meets-West’ culture and fortifies Hong Kong’s position as Asia’s arts and culture hub. By spotlighting the city within the context of a world class arts platform, HKTB is proud to provide enjoyment and enhanced understanding of Hong Kong living culture for thousands of international art and culture lovers.
