The mystery of the fake Gordon Ramsay at IFE 2025

https://video.wixstatic.com/video/7f5806_9fd6014a2fa440fdac76d69bc78ef2f5/720p/mp4/file.mp4

Ramsay lookalike at Taiwan Select exhibit. Video: Ambrose Man

Crowds at the ExCeL Exhibition Centre were abuzz when a man resembling celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay made a swift appearance at the Taiwan Select Pavilion.

Dressed in a crisp chef’s jacket and walking with elegance, the lookalike attracted attention but disappeared just as quickly as he arrived. Some staff that noticed tried to walk up and speak to him.

“I wanted to ask him to stay and try some of our food samples, possibly taking a photo with us,” said Athena Man, Account Manager of PRM, the agency managing the Taiwan Select exhibit.

That moment of confusion was over in less than 10 seconds, according to Owen Jones, a head staff member from Taiwan. “He moved too swiftly,” he said, “and barely stayed long enough next to the exhibit.”

The man’s identity remains unknown, though the on-duty photographer noted he'd seen the same impersonator at other food events. Whether it was an intentional act or simply a coincidence, the incident brought a sense of light-hearted excitement to the pavilion.

“I believe everyone knows Taiwan, and most would agree that Taiwan’s technology industry is globally competitive,” said Vincent Yao, one of the invited guests to the exhibit, Taiwan’s Ambassador.

The real spotlight of the event was still the Taiwan Select Pavilion itself, marking its debut at the UK’s largest food and drink trade exhibition. Organised by Taiwan’s International Trade Administration and TAITRA, the showcase featured 200 curated products from over 90 Taiwanese brands.

From savoury Gua Bao filled with braised pork belly to elegant pineapple cakes, the exhibit blends heritage with innovation. Visitors are also treated to health-focused snacks and sustainable packaging. The display combines both traditional and modern consumer values.

“We welcome everyone to try our free samples. Freshly made by our Taiwanese chef. New samples will be displayed every two hours. Don’t be shy and come have a taste,” said Maggie Lamoon, host of Taiwan Select venue.

Despite the brief and mysterious encounter with the Ramsay lookalike, Taiwan Select’s reception has been nothing short of enthusiastic. Crowds have gathered here daily to sample unique offerings and learn about the island’s evolving food culture.

“This Taiwan Select Pavilion is a perfect demonstration of how Taiwan combines food processing hard power with cultural soft power. I wish this event great success and hope everyone has a successful and rewarding experience at IFE and the Taiwan Select Pavilion,” said Yao.

Whether the mystery guest returns or not, the Taiwan Select Pavilion has already made a strong impression at IFE 2025. With bold flavours, innovative products, and a touch of unexpected drama, it’s proven to be one of the event’s most memorable shows.

And who knows—maybe next time, the real Gordon Ramsay will eventually show up and take a bite.

By Ambrose Man