Singapore – Mastercard has announced that it has sponsored the Netflix gastronomy series ‘The Mavericak Academy’. To commemorate this initiative, an exclusive ‘Lap of Luxuries Around Asia’ tasting menu, jointly curated by Chefs Alvin Leung and Yuda Bustara, the program’s winner, will be launched at LUMA, making the mouthwatering moments leap from screen to plate.
By purchasing the menu, diners will also be contributing to Mastercard’s Priceless Planet Coalition reforestation initiative.
On the show, LUMA, the first concept restaurant introduced by Mastercard in the Asia-Pacific region in partnership with LUBUDS Group, plays host to the final Maverick challenge and witnesses the crowning of The Maverick Academy Top Scholar. This reflects Mastercard and LUMA’s aim of spotlighting the capabilities of Hong Kong’s homegrown culinary talent while welcoming the electric energy of guest chefs from around the world.
As the winner of ‘The Maverick Academy’, rising culinary star Yuda Bustara has been granted an invaluable opportunity as Chef Alvin’s protégé and business partner. For the next three months, Yuda will be stationed at LUMA, which will serve as the culinary stage for his boundary-pushing collaboration with Chef Alvin who will co-curate an exciting Asian-inspired tasting menu that showcases signature dishes in their own unique style.
With the theme, ‘Lap of Luxuries Around Asia’, the chefs have curated The Maverick Academy exclusive tasting menu, featuring a creative symphony of vibrant Asian flavors. From the appetizer combining signature Asian dishes from Hong Kong, Indonesia, India, Thailand and the Philippines, to the main dishes that incorporate lavish ingredients such as LUMA’s signature Hung Wan Farm ping yuen chicken, every dish is a masterclass in culinary flair and artistry.
Julie Nestor, executive vice president of marketing and communications for Asia-Pacific at Mastercard, said, “LUMA, as a culinary incubator, provides a platform for emerging chefs to showcase their passion and talent. By sponsoring The Maverick Academy and collaborating with Chefs Alvin and Yuda to create an exclusive tasting menu, Mastercard is thrilled to unite culinary talents from around the world at LUMA, while inspiring international travelers to experience Hong Kong’s vibrant culinary scene.”
Meanwhile, Helena Chen, managing director for Hong Kong & Macau at Mastercard, commented, “Mastercard is thrilled to support and take part in the filming of The Maverick Academy finale, a testament to our partnership with LUBUDS Group. This initiative underscores Mastercard’s dedication to fuelling culinary passions and mission to re-establish Hong Kong as one of Asia’s gastronomic capitals. To satisfy the cravings and culinary curiosities of international visitors and local diners alike, Mastercard looks forward to continuing to collaborate with strategic partners to curate more Priceless Experiences for cardholders worldwide.”
