Phu Quoc eyes culinary tourism boom as Michelin Guide arrives

Phu Quoc is positioning itself to capitalize on growing interest in culinary tourism, with the Michelin Guide's expansion to the island marking a significant milestone for the destination. The recognition comes as local authorities seek to diversify tourism offerings and boost visitor expenditure beyond traditional beach and resort attractions.

Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the Michelin Guide, has identified Phu Quoc's distinctive gastronomic landscape as a key asset. The island's culinary identity draws strength from its heritage as a fishing community while simultaneously embracing restaurants featuring international standards and cuisine, creating a diverse dining ecosystem that appeals to varying tastes and budgets.

This culinary foundation provides a platform for developing comprehensive visitor itineraries that combine food experiences with other attractions. By offering dining options across multiple price points and cuisines, Phu Quoc can encourage tourists to extend their stays and increase overall spending on the island.

The development aligns with broader infrastructure improvements underway in preparation for APEC 2027, including enhancements to air traffic control capacity and power systems. These investments are expected to support sustained tourism growth and position Phu Quoc as a competitive destination within the region's tourism landscape.