Michelin Guide unveils the riches of Vietnamese cuisine

According to RMIT University Vietnam academic Dr Pham Huong Trang, this global recognition has not only elevated Vietnamese cuisine to new heights but also introduced international flavours and techniques to the local culinary landscape.

“Amidst this culinary transformation, one aspect remains constant – the unwavering focus on preserving and celebrating the local touch that defines Vietnam's rich culinary heritage. At the heart of Vietnam's culinary renaissance lies the elevation of local ingredients,” said Dr Trang, who has over 15 years of experience in higher education teaching and consultancy in the fields of tourism and business management.

She elaborated that Michelin-starred restaurants have embraced the abundance of Vietnam's fertile lands, sourcing their ingredients directly from local farmers and markets. This emphasis on local produce ensures freshness, promotes sustainable farming practices, and showcases the unique flavours and textures that define Vietnamese cuisine.

“From fragrant herbs and aromatic spices to exotic fruits and vegetables, these restaurants celebrate the essence of Vietnamese gastronomy,” Dr Trang said.

Thriving Southeast Asian destinations: A journey with the Michelin Guide

Dr Trang remarked that the Michelin Guide has had a significant impact on various Asian destinations, raising their culinary status and attracting an increasing number of international tourists. Countries like Thailand, Singapore, and Malaysia have experienced impressive transformations in their food scenes, with street food vendors and local eateries gaining recognition and acclaim.

Thailand, renowned for its gastronomic scene and delectable street food, welcomed the Michelin Guide in 2018. The country now boasts 35 Michelin-starred restaurants, with the iconic street food eatery Jay Fai standing out.

Despite its modest size, Jay Fai has earned a Michelin star since 2018 and serves nostalgic dishes like crab omelettes and spicy stir-fried noodles. Diners are willing to wait in long queues, arriving as early as 7-7:30 am, for a chance to savour its renowned delicacies. Jay Fai has become an iconic destination for both locals and tourists, showcasing the international acclaim that Thailand's culinary offerings have garnered.

When the Michelin Guide arrived in Singapore, it was met with excitement and anticipation from the city-state's culinary community. Singapore, known for its diverse and vibrant food scene, initially had 38 restaurants featured in the guide's first edition, with one establishment earning the prestigious three-star rating.

Over the years, the guide has expanded, and Singapore now boasts three Michelin three-star restaurants, along with numerous two- and one-star establishments. The inclusion of street food vendors in the guide has also been celebrated, highlighting the significance of this aspect of Singaporean food culture.

Vietnam's culinary potential on the world map

Dr Trang believes that the much-anticipated arrival of the Michelin Guide in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City “has firmly established Vietnam as a premier culinary destination”. 

She pointed out that even before that, Vietnamese cuisine had consistently earned high rankings on global food lists, with its desserts and street food often celebrated. CNN Traveler has dubbed Ho Chi Minh City the "culinary capital of Vietnam," while The Telegraph has recognised Hanoi as one of the world's cities with the most enticing street food.

"Vietnamese street food embodies a harmonious fusion of flavours, affordability, and the authentic stories behind local vendors. The Michelin Guide's presence in Vietnam is expected to further spotlight the country's culinary diversity and bolster its emergence as an irresistible gastronomic destination,” Dr Trang stated.

To realise such a future, RMIT Vietnam's Senior Program Manager of Tourism and Hospitality Management Dr Jackie Ong advocates for a strong local touch in Michelin-starred restaurants across Vietnam. She opines that the Michelin Guide would have a positive impact on the country's tourism as the culinary landscape evolves and establishments diligently preserve the authenticity of traditional Vietnamese cuisine.

“From bustling street food stalls to sophisticated fine-dining venues, chefs strive to showcase the breadth of Vietnam's culinary traditions and highlight local ingredients. By infusing creativity and innovation into these authentic flavours, these restaurants offer a dining experience that enthrals both locals and international food enthusiasts,” Dr Ong said.

Guided by the Michelin Guide's inspectors, these establishments maintain standards of excellence while remaining true to the essence of Vietnamese gastronomy.

“Consequently, with the Michelin Guide's recognition, restaurants in Vietnam would become more proactive in engaging with local communities, including farmers, fishermen, and artisans, to foster sustainable practices and economic empowerment,” Dr Ong stressed.

“By supporting local suppliers and producers, these establishments could contribute to the preservation of traditional livelihoods and the overall well-being of local communities.”

Both Dr Trang and Dr Ong anticipate that with the resounding recognition and support of the Michelin Guide, Vietnam's Michelin-starred restaurants will continue to captivate both locals and international food enthusiasts, solidifying the country's position as a vibrant and diverse culinary destination.

Masthead image: Lukas Gojda – stock.adobe.com