Chefs prepare dishes during the event. [Photo/Nantong Daily]

The 2026 "I'm the Chef" Competition and "Signature Nantong Dish" Food Carnival opened at the cultural and sports plaza of Sanxian Street in Nantong, Jiangsu province, on Sept 19, attracting a diverse crowd of visitors.

The event, which combines online and offline editions, aimed to enhance Nantong's leading culinary brand, promoting innovation in "AI+" consumer scenarios while showcasing the rich heritage and vibrancy of the city's signature cuisine.

At the competition, 16 culinary teams presented their seafood dishes with passionate slogans that energized the audience, each highlighting the essence of freshness through intricate knife skills and exquisite presentation, blending local culinary culture with the warmth of family reunions.

A major highlight was the AI-powered smart cooking experience zone, where local food online influencers used smart cooking equipment and AI-customized menus to create dishes. The AI kitchen appliance experience area also drew crowds, offering personalized recipe generation and hands-on experiences with smart appliances.

Beyond the competition, 50 bustling market stalls showcased signature flavors from Sanxian Street merchants and renowned eateries in Nantong. A special Mid-Autumn Festival themed area displayed mooncakes, family feast ingredients, and creative gifts. On-site traditional medicine practitioners offered dietary therapy advice and health consultations.

The event also distributed vouchers and free local delicacies, drawing large crowds and creating a lively, vibrant atmosphere.