Hakka Cuisine!

Hakka Cuisine!

29 June 2024

In the latest discovery from our BFI supported 'Reimagining the Film Archive' initiative, we're transporting you to 1960 and ‘The New China Garden’, one of the largest Chinese restaurants in Plymouth next to Derry's Cross.

Chef Moyra Babington and Mr Kim Wong discuss the rising popularity of Hakka and Cantonese cuisine such as braised meats, pickles, dumplings and seafood. Some more familiar examples include Chow Mein or stir-fried noodles!

This clip is about far more than Plymouth's history with cuisine though. Mr Wong speaks of the individual experiences of their Chinese employees, their enjoyment of football and love for cinema.

'The New China Garden' would often hire a cinema venue in Plymouth and rent films from the Chinese Embassy in London. Mr Wong’s invaluable insight points to the rich, diverse Chinese culture surrounding Plymouth and how communities assimilate into a society far from home, whilst sharing and practicing their culture.

One of our favourite ways to connect with the wider world is definitely through cuisine! Why not join us at The Box on the last Saturday in July, August and September for The Bazaar, featuring a variety of authentic international dishes?