If anyone knows how to live la belle vie, it’s the French. Think world-class cheeses, wines, chocolates, and restaurants and you’ll likely be able to name several French producers of each.
On Wednesday, Vincent Floreani, the Consul General of France in Ho Chi Minh City, announced the official launch of “Goût Français”, a certification scheme to recognize French restaurants, importers of French products, and Vietnam-based producers of goods made according to French recipes and techniques.
“The French art of living is clean, delicious, and focuses on quality,” Mr. Floreani told assembled media in one of Saigon’s loveliest and most historic homes. “During the pandemic, we’ve helped promote French restaurants and importers of French products by highlighting them on the French Consulate’s Facebook page. We also have our annual ‘Goût de France – Good France’ events. However, we wanted to do more.”
The new Goût Français label acknowledges members who well-represent France – through authentic French cuisine, by importing French products, or by creating products here in Vietnam using French techniques, like Les Vergers due Mekong (fruit juices, jams, coffees, and teas) and Marou (single-origin chocolate).
Members must be established at least 6 months, and meet strict standards set out in the Goût Français charter, including hygiene and quality. Having French or French-trained managers or chefs is another requirement to ensure that products bear the distinct signature of French food and wine.
“Dishes are more authentic when using quality French products,” noted Mrs. Tina, manager of acclaimed French restaurant La Villa, and wife to Chef Thierry Mounon.
Supported by the French Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Vietnam and Business France, Goût Français has already certified 35 members and is looking to have 60-80 members by year’s end. While all members of the Vietnam-based scheme are currently in Ho Chi Minh City, there are plans to expand to other areas in the country.
“With the Goût Français label, consumers can experience authentic French products with confidence,” noted the Consul General.
Check the Goût Français website to see if your favorite restaurant, distributor, or producer is a member.
