As part of a provincial promotion of delicious local food and cuisines, the contest has attracted 108 contestants from over 20 countries and regions, all of whom are working and studying either in Hangzhou or Nanjing, capital of Zhejiang's northern neighboring Jiangsu province.

Participants will be divided into 20 groups, to each cook a designated cuisine as well as create their own -- from their own countries' recipes if they wish -- and name it after one of Hangzhou's prestigious scenic spots.

Famed chefs from the cities of Hangzhou and Nanjing, both in east China area, have given short-term training to these contestants before the official contest.

As famous Hangzhou cuisines enjoy a high reputation for its leanness, delicate artistic presentation, moderate price and high quality, brand Hangzhou restaurants' outlets have been booming allover China.

(Xinhua News Agency January 2, 2003)