Mastercard has taken center stage in Hong Kong’s culinary landscape with the grand finale of “The Maverick Academy” held at LUMA. This gastronomic series, featuring Michelin-starred chefs and a unique tasting menu, goes beyond showcasing culinary talent, embodying Mastercard’s dedication to inspiring international and local diners alike.
Uniting Global Talent on an Asian Stage
Led by Canadian-born chef Alvin Leung, famously known as the “Demon Chef” and a culinary pioneer in Asian fusion cuisine, “The Maverick Academy” is a Netflix series that celebrates creativity and entrepreneurship among young chefs. For this season finale, the culinary competition culminates at LUMA, a Mastercard concept restaurant developed with LUBUDS Group, offering guests a chance to savor an exclusive “Lap of Luxuries Around Asia” tasting menu.
“LUMA, as a culinary incubator, provides a platform for emerging chefs to showcase their passion and talent,” said Julie Nestor, Executive Vice President, Marketing and Communications, Asia Pacific, Mastercard. “By sponsoring The Maverick Academy and collaborating with Chefs Alvin and Yuda to create an exclusive tasting menu, Mastercard is thrilled to unite culinary talents from around the world at LUMA, while inspiring international travelers to experience Hong Kong’s vibrant culinary scene.”
A Tribute to Asian Flavors and Creativity
The exclusive “Lap of Luxuries Around Asia” tasting menu, designed by Chefs Alvin Leung and Yuda Bustara, combines culinary traditions from Hong Kong, Indonesia, India, Thailand, and the Philippines. From the Smoked Quail Egg Wu Gok appetizer to the main dish of Hung Wan Farm Ping Yuen Chicken with Yi O Rice, each dish showcases bold flavors and top-tier ingredients.
“The Maverick Academy finale highlights Mastercard’s commitment to re-establishing Hong Kong as a premier culinary hub,” noted Helena Chen, Managing Director, Hong Kong & Macau, Mastercard. “To satisfy the cravings and culinary curiosities of international visitors and local diners alike, Mastercard looks forward to continuing to collaborate with strategic partners to curate more Priceless Experiences for cardholders worldwide.”
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Supporting Sustainability through the Priceless Planet Coalition
In line with its sustainability goals, Mastercard’s partnership in this event also aligns with its global reforestation initiative, the Priceless Planet Coalition. For every reservation of the tasting menu, a tree will be planted, contributing to a greener planet.
About Mastercard
Mastercard empowers economies across over 200 countries through its secure, accessible digital payment solutions. The company’s initiatives, including Priceless Experiences, aim to create sustainable growth and digital transformation.
About The Maverick Academy
Created by Anne Chan and Chef Alvin Leung, “The Maverick Academy” is a Netflix series dedicated to cultivating culinary talent across Asia, spotlighting the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit of the region’s most promising chefs.
