If you’re reading this article, we’re pretty sure there’s no doubt in anyone’s mind that you have a taste for the finer things in life, especially when it comes to dining. There’s nothing like the delicate flavors of a perfectly crafted dish, the aroma of fresh ingredients, and the joy of indulging in a culinary masterpiece. And when you’re dining at some of the best Michelin-starred restaurants in the US, there’s nothing in the world that feels quite as satisfying.
Unfortunately, life since 2020 has been quite challenging for fine dining enthusiasts. With the spread of COVID-19, authorities needed to take necessary measures to curb the pandemic and keep people safe – including shutting down access to some of the most revered dining establishments that food lovers adore.
The journey back to normalcy from the peak of the pandemic has been a culinary renaissance, to say the least. From a time when millions could only dream of the most exquisite dining experiences in the US from the confines of their own homes, that dream is finally becoming a reality again with restaurants fully reopened and patrons making their way to the most celebrated dining destinations. Going to the best Michelin-starred restaurants in the US is no longer a distant dream, but a reality that we all can’t wait to savor once again.
After such a long break from fine dining for many, one would understandably want their first culinary adventure back to be the most epic yet. Planning this epic culinary journey is easier said than done for many, simply because it’s so challenging to figure out where to start. The US is filled with so many types of culinary experiences, from avant-garde molecular gastronomy to traditional French elegance, farm-to-table freshness, and more. To make matters more challenging, every restaurant seems more tantalizing than the last, since some of the most renowned restaurants in the US are among the best in the world too.
Unless you have a lot of free time and money on your hands to explore both the culinary landscapes of the east coast and the west coast in one grand gastronomic tour, you will ultimately have to decide on one of the best restaurants to have your dream dining experience. And we’re here to help you make that decision.
When we set out to name the top 7 Michelin restaurants in the US worth visiting, we took multiple viewpoints and preferences into consideration – for example, the list includes some of the most innovative restaurants in the US from a culinary standpoint, or for being simply exquisite, but also those that stand out for their commitment to sustainability, creativity, and unique dining experiences that one can enjoy.
While humanity spent two years keeping social gatherings on the down low, the restaurants have also taken this opportunity to reset and elevate their culinary offerings to new heights. And now, they’re waiting for you to visit. Here are the top 7 Michelin restaurants in the US for you to get inspired – and hopefully, booking.
1. Addison, San Diego
When Michelin expanded to cover all of California in 2019, Addison received one star for its outstandingly executed French-influenced fare. But chef William Bradley had higher ambitions. He and his team remodeled the menu, focusing on the produce, flavors, and culture surrounding them. Now, the nine-course tasting menu includes dishes like Thai coconut soup tom kha gai and Regiis Ova caviar perched atop creamy koshihikari rice. Michelin noticed, elevating Addison to two stars in 2021 before bestowing the restaurant its third star this past December.
Addison’s transformation into a three-star Michelin restaurant is a testament to its commitment to innovation and excellence. The concept of "California Gastronomy" is not just about food; it’s about a culinary experience that resonates with the local culture and flavors. Whether it’s the smoked sabayon with sesame seeds or the distinctively crafted tasting menu, Addison’s culinary journey is a must-visit for gastronomy enthusiasts.
2. Alinea, Chicago
Ever since Michelin first came to Chicago in 2011, chef Grant Achatz’s Alinea has held three stars. Drawing on flavors from around the world, Alinea’s modernist cuisine is strongly influenced by the time Achatz spent at Ferran Adrià’s El Bulli. The restaurant showcases advanced techniques where food is dehydrated, subjected to liquid nitrogen, and even offers an edible balloon.
Alinea is not just a restaurant; it’s an experience that transcends traditional culinary boundaries. From a chicken thigh with Mexican spices to a rare Japanese fish, the fusion of global flavors creates a unique dining experience. Alinea’s commitment to innovation and creativity makes it a must-visit destination for those seeking a culinary adventure beyond the ordinary.
3. Atelier Crenn, San Francisco
Since opening in 2011, chef Dominique Crenn has put out a soulful, artistic take on modern French fare. After sitting at two stars for years, Michelin finally awarded Atelier Crenn a third star, making Crenn the first woman to run a Michelin three-star restaurant in America. Her newest restaurant, Bar Crenn, also picked up a star in its first year of eligibility.
Chef Crenn’s concern about the environmental impact of animal agriculture led her to take meat off all her menus, retaining only seafood. Her willingness to serve lab-grown chicken once it passes FDA approval reflects her commitment to sustainability. Atelier Crenn’s balance of grace, artistry, technical ability, and taste makes it a culinary destination that resonates with the modern palate.
4. Benu, San Francisco
Chef Corey Lee’s Benu is highly revered for its unique blend of flavors from Korea, China, and Japan, merged with techniques he honed at the French Laundry. Awarded its third star in the 2015 guide, Benu’s tasting menu features dishes like oyster with pork belly and kimchi, or smoked quail with lilies and fermented pepper.
Benu’s culinary excellence lies in Chef Lee’s ability to celebrate his Korean heritage while communicating it in a special way. The restaurant’s commitment to authenticity and innovation makes it a must-visit for those seeking a taste of Eastern flavors crafted with Western refinement.
5. Chef’s Table at Brooklyn Fare, New York City
Despite its name, Chef César Ramirez’s fine-dining restaurant has moved from Downtown Brooklyn to Hell’s Kitchen in Manhattan. The format endures, with diners sitting around a counter, watching chefs prepare a multi-course tasting menu of French-Japanese fusion cuisine. Brooklyn Fare’s third star was earned for its unparalleled experience that compares favorably with other three-star establishments.
Chef’s Table at Brooklyn Fare offers more than just food; it’s a culinary theater where guests are part of the experience. The intimacy of the counter setting and the fusion of French-Japanese cuisine make it a unique dining destination that stands out in the world of fine dining.
6. Eleven Madison Park, New York City
Despite being closed until after the 2021 New York guide was released, Eleven Madison Park retained its three Michelin stars. Chef Daniel Humm’s decision to go mostly vegan marked a significant transformation. The guide deemed EMP’s vegan fare still worthy of three stars, reflecting the restaurant’s commitment to sustainability.
Eleven Madison Park’s shift to a vegan menu is not just a trend; it’s a statement about the future of food. Chef Humm’s belief that the "current food system is simply not sustainable" resonates with a growing consciousness about food ethics and environmental impact. EMP’s culinary journey is a testament to innovation and responsibility in modern gastronomy.
7. French Laundry, Yountville, CA
Transformed by Thomas Keller into a leader of American fine dining, the French Laundry’s nine-course menu features dishes like cauliflower velouté with toasted marcona almonds and venison with caramelized Brussels sprouts. Rooted in French food and technique, it has been a proving ground for exceptional chefs.
The French Laundry’s influence extends beyond its exquisite menu. Its legacy lies in the sheer number of alumni who have opened acclaimed restaurants of their own. From Alinea to Benu to Noma, the French Laundry’s contribution to the culinary world is unparalleled, making it a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts.
