Gourmet Shanghai, an international food and wine festival, launched yesterday with an eyeful of food, drink and desserts from all over the world.

But visitors can do more than just look at the treats on show.

The festival, held in the Super Brand Mall in Pudong, incorporates cooking classes and wine tastings.

Up to 18 students at a time can be "chef for a day" and cook with professional chefs. Classes will include lessons on pastry making and cooking lahanodolamades, a Greek specialty. Start times for the course will vary, and interested would-be chefs are asked to check at the information booth at the entrance.

Entry tickets cost 50 yuan (US$6.25) each. Each visitor will get coupons worth 50 yuan to purchase products at the venue.

The event lasts from 10am to 9pm today, and tomorrow from 10am to 5pm. The Super Brand Mall is located at 168 West Lujiazui Road, Pudong New Area.

(Source: www.shanghai.gov.cn )