The event, co-organized by Grab Vietnam and the Da Nang Culinary Culture Association (DCCA), celebrated local restaurants. The program aimed to show appreciation for the establishments that shape the local culinary identity, connect them with technology, and create new momentum for tourism development, according to the organizers. The event also marked the first activity in a three-year memorandum of understanding between the two parties to promote local culture and tourism through cuisine.

The honored restaurants were selected based on three criteria: nominations from DCCA and expert opinions, surveys from travel associations and tourists, 2024-2025 GrabFood user behavior data, and each establishment's legal compliance and operational standards.

Specifically, the "signature taste" category honored 40 long-standing restaurants rich in local character, representing signature dishes such as My Quang 1A, Banh Xeo Ba Duong, Bi My Cho Con, Bun Cha Ca Ba Lu, and Bun Bo Ba Roi. The "most loved" category included 12 restaurants highly rated by the GrabFood community and experts based on food quality, service, and overall experience, including Bep Trang, Ngoc Chi Vegetarian Restaurant, and Bep Co Cao. Sixteen restaurants achieved the "rising star" title due to their rapid growth, flexible operations, and innovative business models, including Hai Coi Restaurant, Banh Mi 365, and Tuc Tac Tea.

Representatives of the restaurants honored in the "signature taste" category. Photo: Minh Quang

Representatives of the restaurants honored in the "signature taste" category. Photo: Minh Quang

Ly Dinh Quan, president of the Da Nang Culinary Culture Association, said the recognition of these restaurants acknowledges individual efforts and contributes to spreading the essence of local cuisine. "We believe that when these authentic values are awakened and properly inspired, cuisine not only creates fame but also opportunities, development, and pride for the entire community," he said.

At the event, Dang Thuy Trang, head of external relations at Grab Vietnam, emphasized the importance of cuisine in the tourism experience. "Collaborating with the Da Nang Culinary Culture Association to honor these exemplary restaurants contributes to preserving and promoting local culture. Grab is honored to be the bridge that brings Da Nang's signature flavors closer to locals and tourists, both domestic and international, through our technology platform," Trang said.

Dang Thuy Trang, head of external relations at Grab Vietnam, speaking at the event. Photo: Minh Quang

Dang Thuy Trang, head of external relations at Grab Vietnam, speaking at the event. Photo: Minh Quang

In addition to the award ceremony, from 1-3/8, Grab organized a series of culinary experiences at APEC Park and Bach Dang walking street. Locals and tourists could order food from the honored restaurants via GrabFood and enjoy it on-site. The event also featured entertainment activities such as statue painting, picture painting, taking photos at the "wall of honor," and various artistic performances.

Previously, in April, Grab collaborated with the Thua Thien Hue Department of Tourism to honor 26 restaurants as part of the "Hue Signature Eatery" program, connecting heritage cuisine with modern tourism.

The Grab information booth at Da Nang International Airport helps tourists explore Da Nang more conveniently. Photo: Hanh Thao

The Grab information booth at Da Nang International Airport helps tourists explore Da Nang more conveniently. Photo: Hanh Thao

Along with these culinary programs, Grab is implementing a series of initiatives to help tourists explore Da Nang more easily. Since April, the company has set up an information booth at Da Nang International Airport, assisting tourists with booking rides, recommending local partner restaurants, and providing free amenities such as phone charging and drinks. Since 2023, Grab has also installed 135 "find me here" benches in coastal parks and five "Non La" rest stops on Bach Dang walking street. Each location is marked on the Grab app, helping tourists easily pinpoint their location for ride-hailing or food delivery.

Tue Anh