Italy, October 23, 2025 — Vietnam continues to affirm its global culinary reputation, winning top honors at the 6th World Culinary Awards. The country was officially named “Asia’s Best Culinary Destination 2025”, while the capital city Hanoi received the title “Asia’s Best Emerging Culinary City Destination 2025.”
These achievements reaffirm Vietnam’s growing status as one of Asia’s most dynamic and distinctive culinary hubs — where time-honored traditions and creative innovation come together to create flavors that captivate the world.
Celebrating Global Recognition for Vietnamese Cuisine
Among this year’s international honorees, Saigontourist Group’s “Culinary Culture Festival – Delicious Dishes” earned the prestigious title of “World’s Leading Culinary Festival 2025.” The award recognizes the group’s efforts in promoting Vietnamese gastronomy through professional, large-scale events that celebrate the nation’s regional diversity and authentic culinary identity.
Adding to the country’s achievements, Capella Hanoi Hotel was awarded “World’s Best Brunch Venue 2025.” The recognition of this luxury property reflects Vietnam’s rising sophistication in both gastronomy and hospitality, positioning Vietnamese dining alongside the world’s most refined experiences.
“The 2025 winners embody the spirit of excellence and innovation, continuously raising the bar in the global culinary landscape,” said Ms. Rina van Staden, Director of the World Culinary Awards.
Vietnamese Cuisine: A Heritage that Inspires the World
From lively street stalls to elegant fine-dining venues, Vietnamese cuisine is a living cultural heritage — deeply rooted in history, yet continually evolving. Each dish tells a story of the land, the people, and their harmony with nature.
The country’s culinary diversity mirrors its regional identity: the delicate balance of pho and bun cha in the North, the bold, aromatic flavors of bun bo Hue from Central Vietnam, and the vibrant, tropical freshness of banh xeo and hu tieu Nam Vang in the South.
With fresh ingredients, balanced flavors, and a philosophy that values health and harmony, Vietnamese cuisine has won the hearts of diners across the globe. The artful combination of sweetness, sourness, saltiness, and spiciness — enhanced by fragrant herbs and refined presentation — embodies Vietnam’s unique blend of simplicity, sophistication, and creativity.
This cultural richness has earned Vietnam repeated recognition: Asia’s Best Culinary Destination 2022, Asia’s Best Emerging Culinary City 2023, and World’s Best Culinary City Destination 2024 for Hanoi — marking a consistent ascent in international acclaim.
Michelin Recognition: Setting New Standards
A significant milestone came on June 5, 2025, when the Michelin Guide announced its latest list of recommended restaurants in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang.
The guide highlighted 181 establishments, including nine Michelin-starred restaurants, 63 Bib Gourmand eateries, and 109 recommended venues recognized for their quality and service.
Vietnam’s inclusion on the Michelin map marks a new era — signaling both global recognition and a drive for local chefs to achieve international excellence while preserving authentic Vietnamese flavors. It underscores Vietnam’s readiness to stand among the world’s top culinary destinations, affirming its reputation as “Asia’s new culinary paradise.”
Culinary Tourism: A Pillar of Sustainable Development
Culinary tourism has emerged as one of Vietnam’s most vibrant and sustainable travel sectors. Many provinces and cities are integrating gastronomy into their tourism strategies — turning regional specialties into cultural ambassadors that connect travelers with the heart of each destination.
Across the country, food festivals, traditional cooking workshops, and community-based dining experiences have become highlights in destinations such as Hue, Hoi An, Can Tho, and Sa Pa. Meanwhile, fine-dining establishments and luxury resorts continue to reinterpret Vietnamese cuisine through contemporary lenses, blending innovation with authenticity.
This dual approach — preserving tradition while embracing creativity — ensures that Vietnamese cuisine evolves gracefully while staying rooted in its origins. As a result, Vietnam is attracting not only travelers but also chefs, researchers, and investors eager to explore its diverse and thriving culinary scene.
Vietnam: A Rising Star on the Global Culinary Map
Vietnam’s continuous recognition by international institutions such as the World Culinary Awards and the Michelin Guide reflects the country’s expanding influence in global gastronomy.
Vietnamese cuisine today stands as a powerful expression of the nation’s soft power — a cultural ambassador that fosters admiration, curiosity, and connection worldwide. From local markets to luxury restaurants, every Vietnamese dish offers visitors a taste of the country’s warmth, artistry, and spirit of innovation.
As Vietnam further strengthens its international presence, culinary tourism will remain a cornerstone of its sustainable tourism strategy — a journey where every flavor tells the story of a nation embracing the world while staying true to its roots.
Australian Hospitality Alumni Network Vietnam 