Reconsidering the Chinese Identity: Cultural Reproduction in Phuket Gastronomy

Abstract

This study aims to explore the culinary cultures of Chinese descendants in Phuket and their mobile practices amidst the cultural dynamics of globalizing communities. Phuket is recognized by UNESCO as one of the creative cities of gastronomy in 2015. This reflects the constructive outcomes in culinary reproduction and tourism promotion in the city. This paper utilizes ethnography in gathering the subjective experiences of the Chinese descendants and expatriates related to the narratives of cuisine. The findings include the following significant points: First, the communication technology becomes a way to inherit traditional cuisines entailing paradoxical results—the wide propagation and transformation of such cuisines. Second, the transnational connection among the domains of Chinese descendants has changed the food process in which knowledge, ingredients, and necessary utensils are interchanged. Third, the modern economic sphere of gastronomy incorporates both local and international cuisines within Phuket locality. Simultaneously, the cuisines are distinguished by their subtle factors—tastes, ingredients, and historical biographies of such cuisines.KeywordsChinese cuisineCultural reproductionMobile practicesPhuket gastronomy