A Tour of Michelin-Starred Restaurants Across Vietnam with 7 restaurants in 2024

The Michelin Guide, an authoritative reference in the culinary world, has long been synonymous with excellence and prestige. Established by the Michelin tire company in 1900, the guide initially aimed to encourage more road travel, and consequently, tire purchases. Over the decades, it evolved into a culinary benchmark, awarding stars to restaurants that exhibit exceptional quality, creativity, and consistency in their culinary offerings. The coveted Michelin stars range from one to three, reflecting a restaurant’s caliber from ‘very good’ to ‘exceptional’ dining experiences.

Vietnam’s inclusion in the Michelin Guide is relatively recent, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s gastronomic journey. The Michelin Guide began recognizing Vietnamese restaurants in 2019, a testament to the country’s rich and evolving culinary landscape. This recognition brought with it a new wave of international attention, spotlighting Vietnam’s unique fusion of flavors, ingredients, and culinary techniques.

The impact of Michelin recognition on the local culinary scene has been profound. For Vietnamese chefs and restaurateurs, a Michelin star is not just an accolade but a validation of their dedication, skill, and innovation. It has inspired a surge in culinary excellence, with local restaurants striving to meet the rigorous standards set by the Michelin inspectors. This drive for quality has elevated the overall dining experience in Vietnam, pushing boundaries and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

Tourism in Vietnam has also benefited significantly from the Michelin Guide’s presence. Food enthusiasts from around the world are now drawn to the country, eager to explore its Michelin-starred establishments. This influx of gastronomic tourists has bolstered the local economy, creating new opportunities for growth and development within the hospitality sector. Furthermore, the global perception of Vietnamese cuisine has been enhanced, positioning it as a serious contender on the world culinary stage.

In essence, the Michelin Guide’s recognition of Vietnamese restaurants has not only spotlighted the nation’s culinary prowess but also catalyzed a broader appreciation and exploration of its rich gastronomic heritage. As Vietnam continues to evolve as a culinary destination, the impact of the Michelin Guide will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping its future.

Ha Noi: The Capital’s Culinary Gems

Ha Noi, the vibrant capital of Vietnam, is a treasure trove of culinary excellence, home to several Michelin-starred restaurants that reflect the city’s rich gastronomic heritage.

Gia restaurant

Among these culinary gems, Gia stands out, helmed by Chef Sam Tran. This restaurant is renowned for its innovative approach to traditional Vietnamese cuisine, seamlessly blending age-old recipes with contemporary techniques. The menu at Gia features meticulously crafted dishes such as the “Cha Ca La Vong,” a fragrant, turmeric-marinated fish dish that has deep historical roots, and “Bun Thang,” a delicate noodle soup that showcases the subtlety and balance characteristic of northern Vietnamese flavors.

Hibana by Koki

Hibana by Koki, located inside the Capella Hotel on Le Phung Hieu Street in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, is one of Vietnam’s best fine dining restaurants where a meal costs up to VND8.5 million (US$334) per person. The restaurant uses premium ingredients flown in twice weekly from Japan, such as abalone, spiny lobster, sea urchin, YaeyamaKyori beef and Hokkaido hairy crab. The restaurant has several secluded dining spaces including four private dining rooms that accommodate up to eight guests and five others for up to 16. It is located at 11 Le Phung Hieu Street in Hoan Kiem District.

Tam Vi Restaurant

Tam Vi Restaurant provides guests with northern Vietnam-style family meals. Its design takes inspiration from the Tonkin period with a touch of northern Vietnamese architecture that features nostalgic collection of Chinese furniture, hand-written signs and an antique gramophone and telephone. Its signature dishes include Vietnamese ham with periwinkle (snails) that comes with fresh herbs, vegetables and rice vermicelli with fish sauce. The restaurant is located at 4b Yen The Street in Dong Da District.

These Michelin-starred restaurants in Ha Noi are not just places to eat; they are destinations that offer a deep dive into the cultural and historical tapestry of Vietnamese cuisine. Each dish tells a story, using ingredients that have been cherished for generations, and each dining experience is a testament to the city’s enduring love affair with food.

Ho Chi Minh City: Fusion Flavors and Modern Techniques

Ho Chi Minh City, a bustling metropolis in southern Vietnam, is a culinary haven where traditional Vietnamese flavors are harmoniously blended with modern culinary techniques. The Michelin-starred restaurants in this vibrant city showcase an impressive fusion of the past and present, creating an unforgettable dining experience for locals and tourists alike.

Anan Saigon

One of the standout establishments in Ho Chi Minh City is Anan Saigon, helmed by Chef Peter Cuong Franklin. Anan Saigon masterfully intertwines Vietnamese street food with contemporary flair, offering dishes that elevate everyday ingredients to gourmet status. Signature offerings include the Bánh Xèo Taco, a creative twist on a traditional Vietnamese pancake, and the Pho Beef Jerky, which reimagines the classic pho in a unique, dehydrated form. Chef Franklin’s innovative approach has not only garnered Michelin recognition but has also set a high standard for modern Vietnamese cuisine.

The Royal Pavilion

Located on the fourth floor of the Reverie Saigon Hotel in HCMC’s District 1, the Royal Pavilion is the only restaurant from last year’s Michelin Selected list to be promoted to one star. The restaurant’s menu revolves around traditional Cantonese cuisine. The restaurant has a variety of à la carte dishes, a set menu featuring Cantonese culinary heritage, and a dim sum menu served at noon. It is located at 22 – 36 Nguyen Hue Street in District 1.

The dining experiences at these Michelin-starred restaurants in Ho Chi Minh City are enhanced by their impeccable service and thoughtfully designed interiors, which blend modern aesthetics with traditional elements. Guests are treated to a culinary journey that transcends mere dining, offering a sensory adventure that celebrates Vietnam’s rich culinary heritage while embracing contemporary innovation.

These acclaimed chefs and their pioneering techniques have significantly contributed to the culinary scene in Ho Chi Minh City, making it a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts seeking a blend of tradition and modernity. The fusion flavors and modern techniques showcased in these Michelin-starred restaurants not only highlight the city’s dynamic food culture but also its potential to shape the future of global cuisine.

Da Nang: Coastal Culinary Delights

Da Nang, a coastal gems in Vietnam, celebrated for their exceptional culinary offerings, with several Michelin-starred restaurants highlighting the region’s gastronomic prowess. The proximity to the sea profoundly influences the cuisine here, with fresh seafood and unique local ingredients taking center stage. Traditional cooking methods, combined with contemporary culinary techniques, create a dining experience that is both authentic and innovative.

La Maison 1888

In Da Nang, one Michelin-starred restaurant that stands out is La Maison 1888. Nestled within the InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort, this establishment is helmed by the renowned French chef Pierre Gagnaire. The menu at La Maison 1888 is a testament to the creativity and expertise of Chef Gagnaire, featuring dishes that elegantly blend French cooking techniques with the freshest local seafood. A must-try dish here is the lobster medallions with truffle sauce, which offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Conclusion: The Future of Fine Dining in Vietnam

Throughout this blog post, we have explored the vibrant and diverse landscape of Michelin-starred restaurants across Vietnam. From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the serene coastlines of Da Nang, these establishments exemplify the pinnacle of culinary excellence. Each Michelin-starred restaurant not only showcases the rich tapestry of Vietnamese flavors but also elevates traditional dishes with innovative techniques and world-class presentation.

These Michelin recognitions are a testament to Vietnam’s growing reputation on the global gastronomic stage. They reflect the dedication and passion of the chefs and their teams, who strive to deliver exceptional dining experiences. As these restaurants continue to push the boundaries of creativity and quality, they are setting new standards for fine dining in the region.

Looking ahead, the future of fine dining in Vietnam appears incredibly promising. With an increasing number of talented chefs being inspired by both local and international influences, we can expect to see more Vietnamese restaurants earning Michelin stars. Additionally, the evolving tastes and preferences of diners, who are becoming more adventurous and discerning, will further drive innovation and excellence in the culinary scene.

The trend towards sustainability and the use of locally-sourced ingredients is also likely to gain momentum. This focus not only supports local farmers and producers but also ensures that the dishes served are fresh, authentic, and environmentally conscious. As Vietnam’s fine dining landscape continues to evolve, it will undoubtedly attract more food enthusiasts from around the world.

We encourage you to embark on your own culinary journey through Vietnam and experience these Michelin-starred restaurants firsthand. Whether you are a seasoned gourmand or a curious traveler, these establishments offer an unforgettable exploration of Vietnam’s rich culinary heritage. The future of fine dining in Vietnam is bright, and there has never been a better time to savor its exceptional cuisine.