On June 17, 2025, Shanghai Zhongqiao Vocational and Technical University hosted a vibrant culinary event in the lecture hall of the Information Building. Organized by the School of Culinary and Hotel Management, the event—titled “Craftsmanship and Dreams: Master Shen Wei’s Shanghai Fusion Cuisine Demonstration Class”—brought together university leaders, distinguished guests, and students for a celebration of culinary excellence and cultural heritage.
Zhu Fanxin delivered opening remarks, expressing heartfelt appreciation to Master Shen Wei and his team. He noted that the event was more than a cooking demonstration—it was a living classroom of craftsmanship, creativity, and professional spirit. He encouraged students to embrace the values of traditional excellence while exploring innovation in the culinary arts.
In a highlight of the ceremony, Dean Zhou Xiaoyan presented Master Shen with his official appointment as Visiting Professor of Zhongqiao University. He emphasized that Shen’s appointment is a key step in advancing the school’s mission of integrating industry and education through “craftsmanship-based teaching.” Guest speaker Li Ming further elaborated on the evolving definition of craftsmanship: a dedication to both preserving tradition and embracing innovation. He praised Master Shen’s teaching for conveying not only advanced culinary techniques, but also deep professional values and artisanal wisdom.
With over three decades of culinary mastery, Master Shen took the stage to share his personal journey. He described Shanghai fusion cuisine as a flavorful embodiment of the city’s spirit—“inclusive, open, and richly layered.” Its essence, he said, lies in “fusion”: rooted in traditional Shanghainese cuisine while embracing global influences and contemporary presentation.
Accompanied by three of his apprentices, Master Shen dazzled the audience with a live demonstration of three signature fusion dishes: Sichuan-style Dry Braised Sauce, Shanghai-style Smoked Tilapia, and Tomato Jelly Noodles. As he prepared each dish, he carefully explained the creative inspirations, ingredient selection, and technical execution behind them—while also reflecting on the cultural meaning and fusion philosophy each plate represented.
During the Q&A session, Master Shen answered students’ questions with patience and insight, emphasizing that “the future of the culinary industry belongs to young people who combine solid skills, a global perspective, and the courage to innovate. Craftsmanship must be preserved across generations—and continuously evolve with the times.”
The “Craftsmanship and Dreams” demonstration class was more than a showcase of elite technique—it was a powerful immersion into the spirit of professional excellence and collaborative education. The event provided students and faculty of the School of Culinary and Hotel Management with invaluable inspiration and firsthand exposure to modern culinary practices. It also marked a significant step in Zhongqiao University’s efforts to deepen its dual-track education model, combining classroom theory with kitchen practice under the mentorship of industry leaders. Through such experiences, students gain a deeper understanding of culinary innovation and the enduring value of true craftsmanship.
