ABSTRACT
This chapter examines tourists’ perceptions of street food and food trucks in Hong Kong. The study revealed that participants generally have positive perceptions of food characterized by novelty, affordability, cultural authenticity, convenience, and good hygiene. They were, however, less impressed with the city’s efforts in promoting street food and food trucks to visitors, the locations of some of the designated venues, and the lack of facilities (e.g., seating areas, the supply of water). The chapter also highlights the role of government in enhancing the image of Hong Kong as a gastronomic destination by (1) managing the operating environment of street food vendors and (2) marketing food trucks as a tourism attraction. More importantly, this study explores the concept of food trucks in urban tourism in Hong Kong. Findings provide useful insights to marketers regarding tourists’ perceptions and suggest strategies for promoting Hong Kong as a gastronomic destination.
