Vietnam’s ascent as a regional gastronomic powerhouse took another step forward with the unveiling of the 2025 Michelin Guide, its third annual edition covering Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang.
Announced at a glittering ceremony at the InterContinental Da Nang Sun Peninsula Resort, the new edition features 181 establishments, the highest number to date, including nine Michelin-starred restaurants, two Green Star honorees, 63 Bib Gourmand venues, and 109 Michelin Selected spots.
Among the nine restaurants awarded one Michelin Star, two were new additions to the elite group. CieL, an elegant, minimalist venue in Ho Chi Minh City, earned its debut star under the leadership of chef Viet Hong Le, whose precision and creativity caught the attention of inspectors.
Coco Dining, also in Ho Chi Minh City, was promoted to starred status this year. Helmed by chef Thanh Vuong Vo, the restaurant has made waves for its contemporary take on Vietnamese cuisine, including fermented ingredients and refined plating that nods to both tradition and modernity.
These newcomers joined a list of returning star-holders that includes familiar names such as Gia and Hibana by Koki in Hanoi, Anan Saigon and Akuna in Ho Chi Minh City, and La Maison 1888 in Da Nang.
The guide also highlighted restaurants committed to sustainability. In a landmark for the country, Hanoi’s Lamai Garden became Vietnam’s first new recipient of a Michelin Green Star. Chef Hieu Trung Tran’s rural-inspired restaurant uses ingredients sourced directly from his organic farm in Phu Tho, with guests passing through a lush garden to a tranquil dining area where farm-to-table dishes take center stage. The only other Green Star was retained by Nen in Da Nang, which continues to build on its reputation for sustainable sourcing and innovation.
Recognizing the vibrant and accessible side of Vietnamese cuisine, the Bib Gourmand list grew to include 63 establishments known for exceptional quality at moderate prices. Nine new entries in Hanoi brought local favorites such as Pho Bo Lam and Mien Luon Chan Cam into the fold, while vegetarian standout Uu Dam also joined the guide. In Da Nang and Ho Chi Minh City, several additions rounded out the Bib Gourmand selection, reinforcing Vietnam’s reputation as one of the world’s most exciting destinations for street food and casual dining.
The Michelin Selected category, which honors consistency, craftsmanship, and overall dining experience, expanded to include 109 venues. Fourteen of these were brand new, including Okra FoodBar and Nephele in Ho Chi Minh City, Vien Dining and Pho Cuon Chinh Thang in Hanoi, and Bun Rieu Cua 39 in Da Nang. While not starred, these restaurants represent the backbone of Vietnam’s dynamic food culture, offering refined yet approachable menus across a wide range of styles and price points.
In addition to the star and category awards, three special honors were presented. The Young Chef Award went to Viet Hong Le of CieL, who trained at Ferrandi in Paris and has previously co-founded The Monkey Gallery Dining. The Sommelier Award was given to Paul Vo of Nephele in Ho Chi Minh City, praised for assembling an eclectic, accessibly priced wine list that champions small-batch producers. The Service Award went to Nha Huynh of Man Moi in Ho Chi Minh City, whose attentive hospitality and warmth exemplify the best of Vietnamese service.
Speaking at the ceremony, Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the Michelin Guide, said the inspectors were continually impressed by the creativity and commitment of Vietnamese chefs. “Many are returning to their roots, using modern techniques to tell stories of their hometowns and revive childhood flavours. At the same time, street food stalls and family-run eateries continue to preserve culinary traditions with authenticity and passion,” he said.