2026/5/29
“Niú ròu miàn hǎo chī!”
“Yán sū jī zàn!”
What kind of magic gets nearly a hundred local politicians and community leaders to eagerly learn and practice Mandarin in just one evening?
The answer lies in a table full of authentic Taiwanese cuisine.
Recently, TECO-LA partnered with the City of Villa Park in Orange County to host the "2026 Taiwanese Food x Mandarin Learning International Tour" at the official residence of Mayor Jordan Wu. Born in Taiwan, Mayor Wu enthusiastically shared his hometown flavors, hoping that as American friends fall in love with Taiwanese food, they will also gain a deeper understanding of Taiwan, care about its international situation, and ultimately lend Taiwan greater support.
With a mouth-watering feast featuring beef noodle soup, popcorn chicken, three-cup chicken, and Hakka desserts prepared by Chefs Te-Chung Fan and Chih-Long Lee, Taiwan Center for Mandarin Learning (#TCML) teacher Che-Yu Chu guided the guests through practical "culinary Mandarin." The interactive lesson was met with enthusiastic participation and endless laughter.
In his remarks, Director General Jason Ma thanked the chefs and the organizing team, noting, "There is no better way to celebrate friendship than by sharing the flavors of home."
Beyond culinary diplomacy, DG Ma echoed Mayor Wu's hopes, extending this Taiwanese "passion to help" to Taiwan’s WHA advocacy. He highlighted that Taiwan offers not only rich cultural charm but also profound public health expertise. "Taiwan's motivation to participate in the WHO and WHA is very simple, rooted in a spirit of dedication: 'We want to help, we can help, please let us help.'"
A bowl of beef noodle soup and a newly learned Mandarin phrase may seem like everyday dining moments, but they represent Taiwan's boundless enthusiasm to share with the world. From culinary arts to global public health, we hope the world sees that Taiwan is not just a friend with great taste—but an indispensable partner to the international community!
