What's happened
Vietnam's fine-dining landscape is evolving, with the Michelin Guide recognizing seven restaurants, including Akuna, which recently earned a star. This shift reflects a growing demand for luxury dining experiences amid rising tourism and economic growth in the region.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to the South China Morning Post, Jay Fai, an iconic street food chef in Thailand, is considering stepping back from her restaurant due to the challenges of sourcing ingredients. In contrast, Bloomberg highlights the success of Akuna in Vietnam, which has thrived despite high prices, showcasing the potential for fine dining in the region. The South China Morning Post also notes that Vietnam's Michelin Guide has recognized several restaurants, indicating a shift in the culinary landscape. This juxtaposition illustrates the tension between traditional street food and the emerging fine dining scene, as both play crucial roles in the country's culinary identity.
How we got here
The Michelin Guide's arrival in Vietnam in 2023 marked a significant milestone, awarding stars to several restaurants. This recognition coincides with a surge in domestic and international tourism, contributing to the country's evolving culinary reputation.
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Vietnam, officially the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, is a country in Southeast Asia and the easternmost country on the Indochinese Peninsula. With an estimated 96.2 million inhabitants as of 2019, it is the 15th most populous country in the world. Vietn