A New Table for Two Cultures: The Inaugural Exchange

On 17 May 2026, more than 100 guests gathered at Luna Private Banquets in Markham for the inaugural Canada-China Culinary Exchange—the first public gathering of the newly formed Association.

The afternoon brought together federal, provincial and municipal representatives, business and community leaders, chefs, media and neighbours. It was a room built around a simple premise: that the most human conversations often begin over a meal.

A first gathering

The programme opened with a traditional lion dance, including the eye-dotting ceremony and a ribbon cutting that marked the official opening of Luna Private Banquets. The energy in the room was celebratory, but the purpose was serious: to create a space where Canadian and Chinese culinary cultures could meet as equals.

The Association marked its founding at the same table. Founded by Lin Zongcheng, it is based in Markham and works across three pillars—cultural exchange, culinary exchange, and community and public benefit. The inaugural exchange was the first expression of that framework.

Recognition came from across the community, including a congratulatory letter from Prime Minister Mark Carney and messages from elected representatives at multiple levels of government.

Food as a shared language

The centrepiece of the afternoon was a forum hosted by Justin Poy, Honorary Patron of Asian Heritage Month (CFACI). The panel included Leo Chan, co-founder of the Cambridge Food and Wine Society; Jackie Lin, owner and chef of the Michelin-starred Shoushin; Sara Waxman, owner and editor of DINE Magazine; and James A. Thompson, author and history lecturer.

The conversation moved beyond “what we eat” to how food shapes business relationships, how hospitality differs across cultures, and how a shared table can make differences feel less abstract. The panelists spoke about tradition and reinvention, about the responsibilities that come with representing a cuisine, and about the quiet diplomacy of hosting.

“Culinary culture is not only about pleasing the palate. It connects people, cultures and communities.”Tim Lin, President, Luna Private Banquets

Tim Lin welcomed guests on behalf of Luna and spoke about the idea behind the space: not simply a restaurant, but a place where private dining, Eastern aesthetics, business conversation and cultural exchange could coexist. The room, designed with references to the cultural atmosphere of the Tang and Song periods, was intended to make that idea tangible.

A menu with two traditions

The evening menu was designed as a conversation in itself—Chinese technique and seasonal ingredients, presented with the restraint of a modern private banquet.

• Chef’s Selection of Delicacies — an opening display of Eastern cold dishes
• Traditional Handmade Dim Sum — a craft passed from hand to hand
• Garden Salad — a fresh, seasonal pause
• Lobster in Golden Broth — richness and ceremony
• Red Wine Braised Beef — patience, depth and time
• Fried Rice with Seasonal Vegetables and Mixed Grains — the generosity of the table

The evening in moments

Guests lingered long after the formal programme, moving between tables and conversations. The photographs below capture some of the people and moments that made the day.

Recognition and what comes next

The Association is grateful for the recognition the inaugural exchange received—from government representatives, community organisations, media and the many guests who gave their time. Those messages are not simply endorsements; they are an invitation to do the work well.

The next step is to build a programme that is as thoughtful as the first table. That means listening to partners, designing formats with real purpose, and creating opportunities for people on both sides of the exchange to contribute. The Association will share its 2026 programme as details are confirmed.

For now, the invitation is simple: if you believe food can do more than feed us, there is a place at this table.