Michelin Guide 2025: Beyond The Tourist Traps | Saigon Sunday Sessions #17
"Beef stew for breakfast, in this heat? Only in Vietnam - and somehow, it works."
I’ve lived in Saigon for nine years, and yet, this city’s food scene never stops surprising me. Let me bring you through Michelin Guide’s 2025 picks - but not the fancy, white-tablecloth stuff. We're talking about the real heroes: local eateries that made it to the Bib Gourmand and Michelin Selected lists for their exceptional quality and value.
This episode was a blast to record. From simmering bò kho in a clay pot to coconut ice cream in a coconut shell, to nearly getting hit by an ambulance while searching for bún chả - this was part food tour, part love letter to Saigon, and part chaos. And that’s exactly what I love about it.
Whether you're living here, planning a trip, or just a food nerd like me, I hope this episode gives you a taste of what makes Vietnamese cuisine - and its people - so special.
Key Talking Points
The Michelin Guide in Vietnam – What it means, how it's grown, and why it matters for local businesses and the country’s global image.What is Bib Gourmand? – A Michelin recognition for restaurants that offer great food at great value—not just fine dining.Three Must-Try Local Spots – Bò kho at Bà Gà, bún chả at Bun Cha Van, and cơm tấm at a street spot near the airport.Why Vietnamese People Don’t Care (And That’s Fine) – Most locals don’t know or care about Michelin, they just know where the food is good.The Chaos and Charm of Eating in Saigon – From blowing on cold ice cream to dodging motorbikes, eating here is always an experience.Chapters and Timestamps
01:10 – Starting our food journey at Bà Gà with bò kho in a clay pot07:30 – Coconut & longan ice cream and Vietnamese hospitality18:30 – Bún chả at Bun Cha Van: sesame, spring rolls, and giant fish sauce29:00 – Heading to our third spot: cơm tấm heaven near the airport34:30 – Huge pork chops, sweet-savory flavors, and food nostalgia42:00 – Why Saigon’s food scene is infinite and magicalThis Season is sponsored by Premier Dental.
The full list of winners is here.
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Vietnam Podcast: Culture, Community & Conversations
Host Niall Mackay takes you on a journey through the vibrant and diverse culture of modern Vietnam.
Niall focuses on personal stories and experiences of both himself and guests, sharing insights into the everyday life of people connected to Vietnam.
From artists and entrepreneurs, locals and Viet Kieu, expats and Vietnamese worldwide and members of the LGBTQ community, this podcast offers a unique perspective on this rapidly developing country.
With engaging discussions and thought-provoking insights, A Vietnam Podcast is a must-listen for anyone interested in exploring the rich culture of modern Vietnam.
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