1. What is the Michelin Guide?

 
For food enthusiasts around the world, the Michelin Guide is regarded as one of the most prestigious and influential restaurant rating systems. Originally launched in France in 1900 by the Michelin tire company, the guide was first published to provide useful information for motorists on the road.

 
Over time, the Michelin Guide has gradually become a prestigious symbol in the culinary world, recognizing outstanding restaurants based on the quality of their dishes, cooking techniques, harmony of flavors, and consistency of the overall dining experience.

 

Source: Internet

 
2. The Meaning of the Categories in the Michelin Guide

 
a. Michelin Star

 
This is an accolade that many restaurants around the world aspire to achieve. Michelin stars are not awarded based on customer reviews but through secret inspections conducted by anonymous food experts – the Michelin Guide inspectors.

 

Source: Internet

 
– 1 star Michelin: Restaurant has high quality cooking, worth a stop
– 2 star Michelin: Restaurant has excellent cooking, worth a detour
– 3 star Michelin: Exceptional cuisine, worth a special journey

 
b. Michelin Selected

 
Michelin Selected is a category that includes restaurants recognized by Michelin inspectors for their high-quality cuisine and overall dining experience. Although they have not yet been awarded Michelin stars, these establishments are still considered well worth discovering.

 
c. Bib Gourmand

 
Bib Gourmand is a distinction that celebrates restaurants offering high-quality food at reasonable prices, allowing diners to enjoy exceptional culinary experiences without excessive spending.

 

Source: Internet

 
3. Why does the Michelin Guide have such a strong influence?

 
The Michelin Guide’s credibility comes from its independent and rigorous evaluation process. Michelin inspectors work anonymously, dining at restaurants in person and assessing them based on the quality of the food rather than promotional factors or reputation.

 
As a result, being featured in the Michelin Guide is considered a significant recognition for any restaurant, and it also serves as a trusted reference for diners seeking high-quality culinary experiences.

 

 
4. Michelin Guide in Vietnam

 
The Michelin Guide officially started publishing its list of restaurants in Vietnam in 2023, focusing on three major cities: Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang. The arrival of the Michelin Guide not only helps promote Vietnamese cuisine to the world but also motivates restaurants to continually improve their service quality and the overall dining experience.

 

 
On the evening of June 4, 2026, the 2026 Michelin Guide honored 193 restaurants in Vietnam. Among them, 4 restaurants in Hanoi received Michelin stars, 23 Hanoi restaurants were listed in the Bib Gourmand category, and 38 Hanoi restaurants appeared in the Michelin Selected list. This highlights Hanoi as a hub of diverse culinary styles, ranging from traditional Vietnamese dishes to high-end international cuisine.

 
The presence of the Michelin Guide in Vietnam has helped establish Hanoi as an attractive destination on the global culinary map. Whether offering traditional flavors rich in cultural identity or refined fine dining experiences, every restaurant recognized by the Michelin Guide provides a memorable gastronomic journey for both domestic and international diners.

 
See the detailed list of restaurants honored in the 2026 Michelin Guide: HERE

 
5. AZABU Restaurant in the Michelin Selected List

 
The Japanese restaurant AZABU, located in HÔTEL du PARC HANOI, has been honored as part of the Michelin Selected list for four consecutive years, from 2023 to 2026.

 

 
Located on the 2nd floor of HÔTEL du PARC HANOI, diners can enjoy the elegant main dining room or sit at the light wooden counter to watch the chefs showcase their skills.

 

 

 
The menu is diverse, offering a wide range of appealing options, particularly providing exceptional value at lunchtime. The extensive à la carte menu also features a refined Kaiseki experience. Don’t miss the restaurant’s signature dishes, especially the expertly crafted sushi and sashimi.

 

 
Under the guidance of Chef Toshihide Terado and his team of experienced chefs, diners have the opportunity to explore premium ingredients imported directly from Japan. The elegant setting, meticulous attention to detail, and the dedicated service of the staff make AZABU a favorite destination for lovers of Japanese cuisine in Hanoi.

 

 
To make a reservation at AZABU to enjoy the authentic Japanese cuisine, please visit: RESTAURANT RESERVATION