MALAYSIA – Food Affair with Mark Wiens is a fresh and invigorating journey of food obsession in Singapore. It is experienced through the eyes (and mouth) of popular food vlogger Mark Wiens.
The HBO Asia Originals’ production is the first non-scripted food series hosted by Wines. Watch on as he discovers the untold stories, personalities, and history behind Singapore's smorgasbord of delicacies, from haute to hawker cuisine.
The six-episode series is set to premiere on 18 November on HBO (Astro Ch 411), HBO Go and will debut same time on HBO Max in the US.
With over 9 million subscribers on YouTube, Wiens is no stranger to sharing his love for street food. And for the first time, Wiens assumes his role as programme host in a food miniseries, Food Affair with Mark Wiens.
Through the series, Wiens deepens his understanding of Singapore’s dynamic food culture. He acquaints himself not only with Singapore’s popular street food but its fine dining experiences as well.
Each episode features a star-studded panel of guests comprising a fine-dining chef, culinary veteran, and a hawker hero. Through conversations, Mark uncovers Singapore artistry and stories, as well as its distinct and rich culinary heritage.
This has made Singapore home to more than 50 Michelin-starred establishments and over 60 Bib Gourmand locations, including street food and hawker centre stalls.
“It was a huge honour to be a part of the Food Affair series. I am immensely thankful for this opportunity, and grateful to everyone who has made it possible," said Wiens.
Apart from trying all the food and exploring Singapore's culturally rich cuisines, "it was most rewarding to learn the stories of each restaurant owner and how they have followed their passion (sometimes against many challenges), which is truly reflected in the taste of their food. I
"t’s undeniable that food is at the centre of all our lives, and that's what brought us all together,” he added.
Directed by Gillian Tan and executive produced and created by pre-eminent filmmaker and consummate foodie, Eric Khoo, who also created the HBO anthology series Folklore 1 & 2 (2018, 2021) and the award-winning Food Lore (2019).
“Singapore is a delightful melting pot of mouth-watering food from the woks of street hawker fare to high-end Michelin-starred restaurants – a reflection of our multicultural society and heritage.
"Through food, I want to share with the rest of the world the diversity of what this tiny island has to offer,” said Khoo.
Food Affair with Mark Wiens kickstarts a three-year partnership between Singapore Tourism Board and Warner Bros. Discovery, which will see both parties collaborate on a suite of entertainment and lifestyle content, as well as joint marketing, to spotlight and inspire travel to destination Singapore.
Stream or download Food Affair with Mark Wiens from 18 November on HBO Go. Subscribe to HBO Go online at https://www.hbogoasia.my/ or the mobile app via the App Store or Play Store for as low as RM23.30/month.
You can also access HBO Go via Astro. HBO Go is also available on Android TV, Apple TV, LG TV and Samsung Smart TV – and comes with AirPlay and Google Cast functionality.
Download the app at App Store or Play Store and get a free trial today. – The Vibes, October 21, 2022