Recognised by National Geographic as one of the world’s best food destinations for 2026, Buon Ma Thuot is gaining international attention for its exceptional coffee culture and authentic culinary experiences.
Buon Ma Thuot is stepping onto the global culinary stage after earning a place among National Geographic‘s 15 Best Food Destinations in the World for 2026. Ranked fourth on the prestigious list, the capital of Dak Lak has outperformed many internationally renowned food destinations, highlighting Vietnam’s growing influence in global gastronomy through its distinctive coffee heritage and local flavours.
Located in Vietnam’s Central Highlands, Buon Ma Thuot sits at the heart of the world’s largest robusta-producing region. As climate change continues to affect Arabica production worldwide, the city’s high-quality robusta beans are becoming increasingly valuable to the international coffee industry. Vietnam, the world’s second-largest coffee exporter, supplies more than 70 countries, with the Central Highlands contributing over 40 per cent of the nation’s coffee exports. Experts praise Buon Ma Thuot’s robusta for its rich body, intense aroma, low acidity, and naturally sweet finish.
Beyond production, Buon Ma Thuot has developed a vibrant coffee culture that blends tradition with innovation. Visitors can experience the slow-brewed phin coffee that defines Vietnamese café culture alongside iconic local beverages such as cà phê sữa đá, creamy egg coffee, and the increasingly popular salt coffee. These unique drinks have transformed the city into a destination where travellers can experience Vietnam’s evolving coffee traditions first-hand.
The city’s appeal extends beyond its cafés through attractions such as the World Coffee Museum and Trung Nguyen Coffee Village, where visitors can explore Vietnam’s coffee history, discover traditional brewing methods, and sample premium local blends. As global travellers increasingly seek authentic, sustainable, and culturally rich food experiences, Buon Ma Thuot is establishing itself as more than an agricultural powerhouse—it is becoming one of Asia’s most exciting culinary destinations.
Source: Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism Vietnam
