Gourmet food judge Michelin Guide to feature Hanoi, HCMC

Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City are the latest destinations that will feature in the international selection of the famous Michelin Guide.

For the first time in the Guide's history, Michelin inspectors will evaluate quality restaurants in Vietnam's two largest cities.

“We have been looking at Vietnam’s gastronomic scene for quite a long time and we are delighted to finally announce the Michelin Guide’s arrival in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City,” said Gwendal Poullennec, international director of the Michelin Guide.

“With a fascinating food heritage and history, distinctive and unique flavours, iconic recipes and well-known delicacies, Vietnamese cuisine has carved its way to popularity around the world. Supported by locals where eating out has always been a true way of life, as well as by talented restaurateurs, Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City are two gourmet gems that deserve to be fully celebrated,” he added.

The restaurant selection will be unveiled at an event to be held in June 2023. It will also be available exclusively in digital format on all the Guide's interfaces: website, mobile applications, and social networks.

The Michelin Guide writes in a release: “As the country’s capital, Hanoi has centuries-old architecture and a rich food heritage due to its links to the sea and historical trade connections. The city’s cultural charms and culinary traditions are everywhere - on the streets and in small shops - and gourmets can enjoy in Hanoi an abundance of Vietnamese dishes, using fresh local ingredients and aromatic herbs made from traditional recipes and techniques.”

Meanwhile, “Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam’s economic hub dotted with high-rise buildings is shaping to be another Asian destination for dining. Local chefs, whom many have gained experience in kitchens abroad, are very often adding their own interpretations to Vietnamese cuisine. Mixed with European influences and local traditions, the food scene in Ho Chi Minh City is lively and vivid with an array of offerings ranging from small shops to high-end restaurants.”

The Michelin Guide was created in 1900 by the Michelin tire company to support the growth of automobile mobility. Since then, it has remained loyal to its original mission: to settle in mature gastronomic destinations to guide international travellers and local foodies to the best restaurants, highlight world culinary scenes and promote travel culture.

One Michelin star is awarded to restaurants for “high-quality cooking that is worth a stop,” two for “excellent cooking that is worth a detour,” and three for “exceptional cuisine that is worth a special journey.”