The Man Behind the Brand
Đặng Trung Dũng
Đặng Trung Dũng, the founder of Vị Việt Nam Restaurant and Café, is a trailblazer in Vietnam’s culinary scene.
From Humble Beginnings to a Culinary Visionary
He was born in Đông Triều, Quảng Ninh, Dũng grew up surrounded by the rich cultural traditions and vibrant food heritage of his homeland. His early exposure to Vietnam’s culinary diversity inspired a deep respect for the country’s flavors, culture, and traditions.
After completing his studies in Hanoi, Dũng began his career in tourism, working as a guide for international companies such as Intrepid Travel and G Adventures. This experience gave him a global perspective on cultural exchange and the unique role that cuisine plays in storytelling. Witnessing the global fascination with Vietnamese food sparked a vision: to elevate Vietnam’s culinary heritage to the world stage while integrating sustainable practices.
A Journey Rooted in Passion and Perseverance
Dũng’s journey into the culinary industry began with the successful launch of several restaurants, including Home and Foodcourt, which gained recognition as leaders in Vietnam’s premium dining scene. These successes laid the foundation for the creation of Vị Việt Nam Restaurant and Café, a brand that fuses tradition, innovation, and environmental consciousness.
For Dũng, the launch of Vị came at a pivotal moment: the post-COVID-19 recovery period. He saw this as an opportunity to redefine Vietnam’s culinary identity by championing sustainable practices and cultural authenticity. His commitment to “cooking with genuineness” (nấu ăn với sự chân thành) became the guiding principle of his culinary philosophy.
Sustainability at the Core
Dũng’s leadership is marked by a deep commitment to sustainability. He believes that “sustainability is not just about minimizing environmental impact; it’s about preserving culture, heritage, and community.” This ethos is evident in every aspect of the Vị brand:
- Local and Organic Sourcing: Partnering with farmers and artisans to ensure fresh, sustainable ingredients.
- Zero-Waste Practices: Reducing food and material waste through innovative kitchen management.
- Eco-Conscious Design: Creating spaces that integrate natural elements and energy-efficient technologies.
A Vision for Vietnamese Cuisine
Dũng’s vision for Vị extends beyond being a restaurant—it’s a movement to elevate Vietnamese cuisine as a global standard for sustainable fine dining. With sub-brands like Vị Hà Nội, Vị Huế, and Vị Sài Gòn, the brand celebrates the diversity of Vietnam’s regions while preserving authenticity.
Dũng envisions Vị Restaurant and Café as a bridge between tradition and modernity, offering diners an immersive experience that combines exquisite flavors, cultural storytelling, and environmental responsibility. His ultimate goal is for Vị to achieve the Michelin Green Star, positioning Vietnamese cuisine as a leader in global sustainable dining.
The Man Behind the Brand
More than a restaurateur, Đặng Trung Dũng is an innovator and cultural ambassador. His work is fueled by a profound love for his homeland and a belief in the power of food to connect people, preserve heritage, and inspire change. Through Vị, he aims to tell Vietnam’s story, one dish at a time.
Dũng’s journey is not just about creating exquisite meals but about building a legacy—where Vietnamese cuisine and sustainability converge to leave an indelible mark on the world. His story is a testament to passion, resilience, and a vision that redefines what it means to dine sustainably in the 21st century.
