Marriott Bonvoy Launches ‘Gourmet Journey’ New Banquet Concept in Greater China

Marriott Bonvoy in Greater China introduces the new banquet concept of ‘Gourmet Journey’[...]

Marriott Bonvoy in Greater China introduces the new banquet concept of ‘Gourmet Journey’. Banquets are an essential part of China’s social culture. The banquet teams of Marriott Bonvoy hotels have always been committed to providing personalized and high-quality services to create memorable gatherings for guests.

On July 20, 2023, in Shanghai, China, Marriott Bonvoy announced the launch of a new banquet concept—‘Gourmet Journey’. This concept was first experienced at the Guangzhou Ritz-Carlton Hotel on July 21, 2023.

The concept of ‘Gourmet Journey’ draws inspiration from the award-winning restaurant philosophy of the brand, extending exceptional dining and service to banquet events.

Published on July 22, 2023, at 10:43 AM.

Michael Malik, Chief Operating Officer of Marriott International in Greater China, said, ‘The introduction of the ‘Gourmet Journey’ concept aims to elevate and innovate the banquet experience. By leveraging the brand’s renowned chefs and distinctive services, customized menus and atmosphere designs are presented to meet the increasingly refined and diverse needs of today’s consumers.

This new concept will gradually be promoted to more destination hotels under the brand and will offer customized banquet services. With skill and craftsmanship, guests are invited to appreciate the beauty of culinary art and create unforgettable ‘Gourmet Journey’ memories in banquets and gatherings.We hope that whether hosting large events or small gatherings, guests can find the anticipated delicious food and experiences at Marriott Bonvoy.

The ‘Gourmet Journey’ skillfully showcases high standards of dining and service, inviting guests to embark on a journey to explore the essence of cooking and leave unforgettable moments in memory through the universally understood language of taste.

The ‘Gourmet Journey’ experience first presented at the Guangzhou Ritz-Carlton Hotel features a creative menu crafted by Chef Huang Shangfeng, the executive chef of the Michelin one-star restaurant Li Xuan. He skillfully interprets an immersive taste journey through time and space. Chef Huang draws inspiration from the rich and diverse customs and dining traditions of the ancient Lingnan region (present-day Guangdong and Guangxi, among others). He meticulously selects ingredients from different regions and unique cooking methods, interpreting them with modern culinary techniques. This pays homage to the thousand-year history of Lingnan cuisine, showcasing the profound heritage and unique charm of Lingnan’s food culture to diners.

From left to right: Lingnan Headliner · Tangerine Sea Snail Stew with Fish Maw, Overseas Chinese Flavor · Pan-fried Taishan Semi-dry Golden Oysters.

The ‘Gourmet Journey’ Lingnan flavor menu includes four appetizers, two soups, three hot dishes, one staple, and one dessert.

The special appetizers highlight various Lingnan flavors. For example, Fengcheng Yu Mixiang · Fengcheng Shuixiang Fish Skin represents the rich and profound food culture of Shunde area in the Pearl River Delta.The soup dish, Lingnan’s top choice · Stewed Fish Maw with Kumquat and Conch adheres to the principle of ‘harmonizing five flavors and combining properties’ of Cantonese people, reflecting the Lingnan food wisdom of accompanying seasons with soup.

Among the hot dishes, Qiaoxiang Flavor · Pan-fried Taishan Semi-dry Golden Oyster is sourced from the famous overseas Chinese hometown Jiangmen Wuyi area in China. Here, there are rivers, mountains, seas, lakes and everything. Thanks to its unique natural environment, many excellent ingredients are bred.

Another hot dish, Northern Guangdong Nostalgia · Braised Tiger Palm (Beef Tendon) with Pickled Cabbage reflects the unique flavor of Shaoguan area. This cuisine has a relatively heavy seasoning and a refreshing and spicy taste, forming a unique school in the Cantonese cuisine system.

The menu ends with an old Cantonese favorite · Concubine Lychee Crystal Noodles dessert, which is popular in the streets and alleys of Guangdong, drawing a perfect end to the whole delicious journey.

‘We are very pleased to let ‘Wanxiang Zhenlu’ start from Guangzhou and unveil it at The Ritz-Carlton Hotel, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s luxury brand portfolio,’ said Jennie Toh, vice president of brand marketing and brand management for Asia Pacific at Marriott International. ‘Luxury dining has always been one of the guest experiences we focus on creating. We will continuously refine and integrate the ingenuity and creativity of star chefs and the high-standard service of excellent catering teams into guests’ delicious journeys, giving food a deeper level of enjoyment and meaning.Marriott Bonvoy is relentless in its pursuit of culinary adventures. With the launch of a new banquet concept, Marriott Bonvoy aims to expand ‘Wanxiang Zhenlu’ to an even greater number of hotels and destinations across Greater China. The brand plans to introduce tailored banquet packages in various locations, designed to immerse guests in the local gastronomy. These packages will not only offer exceptional catering and service but also initiate unique ‘Wanxiang Zhenlu’ journeys that highlight the distinctive characteristics of each destination.