The topic of describing an event with excellent food is a popular one in IELTS Speaking tests. It allows examiners to assess candidates’ ability to discuss personal experiences, describe food and events, and express opinions. This topic has appeared frequently in past exams and is likely to continue being a common theme in future tests.
Describe a traditional event that you enjoy celebrating can be a great way to showcase your cultural knowledge and language skills. Let’s explore how to approach this topic effectively in each part of the IELTS Speaking test.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about food and events. Here are some possible questions:
- Do you enjoy cooking?
- What’s your favorite type of cuisine?
- How often do you attend social events?
Let’s look at a sample answer for the first question:
Examiner: Do you enjoy cooking?
Candidate (Band 7-8 answer): Absolutely! I find cooking to be a wonderful way to unwind after a long day. There’s something therapeutic about chopping vegetables and experimenting with different flavors. Plus, I love the satisfaction of creating a delicious meal from scratch and sharing it with friends and family.
Part 2: Long Turn
Here’s a sample cue card related to the topic:
Describe an event you attended that had excellent food
You should say:
- What the event was
- Where and when it took place
- What kind of food was served
- Why you thought the food was excellent
And explain how the food contributed to the overall experience of the event.
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
I’d like to share my experience of attending a lavish wedding reception that took place last summer at a picturesque vineyard just outside my hometown. It was a truly memorable occasion, not only because of the joyous atmosphere but also due to the exquisite culinary offerings.
The event featured a diverse array of cuisines, seamlessly blending traditional local dishes with international flavors. The centerpiece was undoubtedly the main course – a succulent roast lamb infused with rosemary and garlic, perfectly complemented by a medley of roasted vegetables and a rich, velvety red wine reduction.
What made the food truly stand out was the meticulous attention to detail in both presentation and taste. Each dish was artfully plated, resembling miniature works of art. The flavors were expertly balanced, with the chefs showcasing their culinary prowess through unexpected combinations that delighted the palate.
The culinary experience played a pivotal role in elevating the overall ambiance of the wedding. It served as a conversation starter, bringing guests together as they enthusiastically discussed their favorite dishes. The carefully curated wine pairings further enhanced the dining experience, perfectly complementing each course and adding an extra layer of sophistication to the event.
In retrospect, the exceptional quality of the food significantly contributed to making this wedding reception an unforgettable experience. It demonstrated how thoughtfully prepared cuisine can transform a special occasion into a truly extraordinary celebration.
Exquisite food at a wedding reception
Examiner: That sounds like a wonderful event. How do you think the quality of food affects people’s enjoyment of an event?
Candidate (Band 8-9): I firmly believe that exceptional food can elevate an event from good to unforgettable. High-quality cuisine not only satisfies our basic need for sustenance but also engages our senses and emotions. When people encounter exquisitely prepared dishes, it often sparks conversation and creates shared experiences, which can significantly enhance social bonding at events. Moreover, thoughtfully crafted menus that reflect the occasion’s theme or cultural significance can deepen guests’ appreciation and connection to the event itself. Ultimately, I think superb food acts as a catalyst for creating lasting memories, making it a crucial element in the success of any gathering.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Examiner: How have eating habits changed in your country in recent years?
Candidate (Band 7-8 answer): In recent years, there’s been a noticeable shift in eating habits in my country. One significant change is the increasing popularity of international cuisines. People are now more adventurous in trying foods from different cultures, which has led to a proliferation of diverse restaurants and food outlets.
Another trend is the growing awareness of health and nutrition. Many individuals are opting for healthier food choices, such as organic produce and plant-based diets. This has resulted in a surge of health-focused restaurants and meal delivery services.
Additionally, there’s been a rise in food delivery apps and convenience foods, reflecting our fast-paced lifestyle. However, this has also raised concerns about the decline in home cooking and traditional meal structures.
Describe a recent meal that you enjoyed could be an excellent way to showcase these changing eating habits in a personal context.
Examiner: Do you think traditional cuisine is at risk of disappearing in many countries?
Candidate (Band 8-9 answer): This is a complex issue that warrants careful consideration. On one hand, there are legitimate concerns about the potential erosion of traditional cuisines in many countries. The rapid globalization of food culture, coupled with the convenience of fast food and international restaurant chains, has led to a homogenization of eating habits in some areas.
However, I believe it’s overly pessimistic to suggest that traditional cuisines are at risk of disappearing entirely. In fact, we’re seeing a resurgence of interest in local and traditional foods in many parts of the world. This revival is often driven by a desire for authenticity and cultural connection, as well as concerns about sustainability and supporting local economies.
Moreover, many countries are taking proactive steps to preserve their culinary heritage. This includes initiatives to document traditional recipes, promote local ingredients, and incorporate traditional dishes into modern dining experiences. Culinary tourism has also played a significant role in keeping traditional cuisines alive and relevant.
Ultimately, while traditional cuisines may evolve and adapt to changing tastes and lifestyles, I believe they will continue to be an important part of cultural identity and heritage for many countries.
Preserving traditional cuisine
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
- Culinary offerings (noun phrase) – /ˈkʌlɪnəri ˈɒfərɪŋz/ – the food served at an event
Example: The culinary offerings at the wedding were diverse and exquisite. - Exquisite (adjective) – /ɪkˈskwɪzɪt/ – extremely beautiful or carefully made
Example: The chef prepared an exquisite five-course meal for the guests. - Artfully plated (adjective phrase) – /ˈɑːtfəli ˈpleɪtɪd/ – food arranged attractively on a plate
Example: Each dish was artfully plated, showcasing the chef’s attention to detail. - Delighted the palate (phrase) – /dɪˈlaɪtɪd ðə ˈpælət/ – pleased the sense of taste
Example: The complex flavors of the dessert delighted the palate of every diner. - Pivotal role (noun phrase) – /ˈpɪvətl roʊl/ – a very important or essential role
Example: The quality of food played a pivotal role in the success of the event.
Tips from an Examiner
To score high in the IELTS Speaking test when describing an event with excellent food:
- Use a variety of descriptive adjectives to vividly portray the food and atmosphere.
- Incorporate idiomatic expressions and advanced vocabulary related to food and events.
- Provide specific details about the event, food, and your personal experience to make your answer more engaging and authentic.
- Practice speaking about different types of events and cuisines to improve your fluency on this topic.
- Be prepared to discuss broader issues related to food, such as cultural significance, changing eating habits, and the impact of globalization on cuisine.
Remember, describe a time when you took part in a community event can also be an excellent opportunity to showcase your language skills in describing events and food.
By following these guidelines and practicing regularly, you’ll be well-prepared to discuss events with excellent food in your IELTS Speaking test, potentially leading to a higher band score.