For over a century, the MICHELIN Guide has been the world’s most trusted arbiter of culinary excellence. When its anonymous inspectors finally set foot in Vietnam in late 2022, the nation’s food lovers held their breath. The culmination of their secret visits was revealed on the evening of June 6, 2023, at a glittering ceremony in Hanoi—the first time MICHELIN had turned its spotlight on Vietnam. The results would forever change the way the world sees Vietnamese dining [citation:3].
The night was shrouded in secrecy until the very last moment. Even Michelin’s local partners were kept in suspense. When the envelopes were opened, 103 restaurants were honored across two cities: 48 in Hanoi and 55 in Ho Chi Minh City [citation:8][citation:10]. The selections captured the essence of Vietnam’s culinary soul—from street-side pho stalls to hushed fine-dining rooms.
Four restaurants received the coveted One MICHELIN Star, recognizing “high quality cooking, worth a stop.” Three were in Hanoi, one in Ho Chi Minh City [citation:6][citation:10].
Beyond the stars, 29 establishments received the Bib Gourmand, awarded for “good quality, good value cooking” (moderate prices). This list became an instant treasure map for travelers seeking authentic, affordable meals: 13 in Hanoi and 16 in Ho Chi Minh City [citation:3][citation:10]. Among them were beloved institutions like Pho Tu Lun and Mr. Bay Mien Tay, whose banh xeo (crispy pancakes) earned international acclaim [citation:2].
The ceremony also honored three individuals who elevate the dining experience [citation:10]:
The inaugural ceremony was only the beginning. MICHELIN returned each year, expanding its coverage and deepening its appreciation of Vietnam’s culinary landscape.
The second edition saw familiar names retain their stars, while new entries reflected the dynamism of Vietnam’s food scene. The guide continued to spotlight the contrast between Hanoi’s heritage flavors and Saigon’s innovative fusion [citation:4].
A major expansion: the guide added Da Nang to its selection. The 2025 ceremony celebrated a record 181 establishments: 9 One MICHELIN Star (1 new, 1 promoted), 2 MICHELIN Green Stars (for sustainable gastronomy), and 63 Bib Gourmand (9 new). The MICHELIN Mentor Chef Award made its debut in Vietnam [citation:4].
Vietnamese cuisine continues its ascent. Hotels like Capella Hanoi and Amanoi received prestigious MICHELIN Keys for exceptional stays. The guide now serves as a comprehensive resource for travelers seeking both culinary and lodging excellence [citation:5].
The arrival of MICHELIN has been transformative. As Mr. Nguyen Trung Khanh, Director of the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism, noted: “The recognition of Michelin coming to Vietnam… will be a huge turning point for all Vietnamese restaurants, creating a brand to welcome tourists, especially international visitors” [citation:6].
Hotels and resorts partnered with MICHELIN to promote culinary tourism. Sun Group, the strategic partner that brought MICHELIN to Vietnam, played a pivotal role in this historic moment [citation:7]. Today, visitors plan entire itineraries around MICHELIN-recommended addresses—from a star-studded dinner in Saigon to a humble bowl of pho in a Hanoi alley.
Even the most celebrated restaurants must maintain standards. In February 2026, two Bib Gourmand eateries in Hanoi—Pho Tu Lun and Mr. Bay Mien Tay—were briefly fined for minor food safety infractions, underscoring that the MICHELIN Guide’s rigorous criteria demand constant vigilance [citation:2]. Both remain beloved destinations, and their quick remediation reflects the professionalism of Vietnam’s dining scene.
In early 2026, the MICHELIN Guide published a special feature: “Where to Get the Best Pho in Hanoi”, highlighting 7 restaurants that exemplify the city’s signature dish. From traditional family recipes to modern interpretations, this list is essential reading for any visitor [citation:9].
With the success of the Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang editions, speculation grows about which Vietnamese city will next earn MICHELIN’s attention—perhaps Hue, with its royal cuisine, or Phu Quoc, with its seafood and island resorts. What is certain is that Vietnam’s culinary star will continue to rise.
For travelers, the MICHELIN Guide has become an indispensable companion. Whether you seek the creativity of a young chef, the warmth of a family-run shop, or the elegance of a fine-dining room, the red guidebook (and its digital app) now illuminates the path.
The June 6, 2023 ceremony in Hanoi was not an ending but a beginning. It opened a new chapter for Vietnamese gastronomy—one that continues to be written in kitchens across the country. As you plan your 2026 journey, let the MICHELIN Guide be your compass. The flavors of Vietnam await.
