Two North Carolina restaurants are among North America’s best places to celebrate the Year of the Horse with Asian dishes, the Michelin Guide says.
The Lunar New Year celebrates the beginning of a new year in China’s lunisolar calendar, although many other Asian countries celebrate the holiday, as well. Lunar New Year celebrations stretch this year from Feb. 17-27, with red decorations and family gatherings, plus firecrackers and lantern festivals.
Elaborate meals are also key, which is where the Michelin Guide has stepped in to help.
Dan Nguyen stands outside her Charlotte restaurant, Lang Van. Alex Cason CharlotteFive
Lang Van in Charlotte
Charlotte’s Lang Van was highlighted for its crispy fried spring rolls — also called nem rán or as chả giò — usually made with minced pork, glass noodles, wood ear mushrooms and aromatics.
The Michelin Guide called the spring rolls are a fixture of celebrations for Tết — Vietnamese New Year — and made in large batches to share across generations. “Their presence on the table reflects care, patience and a belief in prosperity built through collective effort — food that brings people back to the table again and again,” the article said.
We’ll also note that while you can’t go wrong with anything on the menu at the Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant, other standout appetizers to try include the goi cuon summer rolls and the crispy bánh xèo pancake, a dish “Top Chef” host Kisten Kich enjoyed while filming in Charlotte.
Lang Van’s No. 19, a crispy bánh xèo pancake, goes well with an ice cold mug of Asahi beer. Timothy DePeugh CharlotteFive
Brewery Bhavana in Raleigh
Among the other foods the Michelin Guide calls out as “iconic” are the hand-folded jaiozi dumplings at Brewery Bhavana in Raleigh, which was honored with Michelin-recommended status. The curved-shaped Chinese dumplings are a symbol of wealth and new beginnings, the guide’s article explained.
At Brewery Bhavana, the hand-made dumplings are filled with chicken, ginger, bok choi and water chestnuts, then pan-fried and served with house dumpling sauce. If you’re looking to try even more there, we hear the bao is a spectacular choice.
Brewery Bhavana – a restaurant in downtown Raleigh with craft beer, dim sum, flower shop and book store – opened in March 2017. Part of the building houses a restaurant with dim sum and some classic Chinese dishes. Julia Wade JULIA WADE
Brewery Bhavana’s two renditions of bao — steamed buns filled with char siu, or delicately pan-browned with a filling of braised pork and black mushrooms — are both so good that they leave you no option but to order both. Juli Leonard jleonard@newsobserver.com
Lang Van’s goi cuon, which are Vietnamese summer rolls, come with a side of savory peanut dipping sauce that you can add sriracha to for a spicy kick. Heidi Finley CharlotteFive
Heidi Finley is a writer and editor for CharlotteFive and the Charlotte Observer. Outside of work, you will most likely find her in the suburbs driving kids around, volunteering and indulging in foodie pursuits. Support my work with a digital subscription
Charlotte’s food scene in November revolved around exciting developments in the Michelin Guide American South and various local restaurant changes.
Several CharlotteFive articles highlight Charlotte’s anticipation for Michelin Star announcements. The city saw its first Michelin Star awarded to a restaurant, boosting its culinary reputation. Counter-, a tasting restaurant, earned both a Michelin Star and a Green Star, making waves in Charlotte’s dining scene.
Additionally, a new arcade bar with retro games and a retro theme opened in South End, adding to Charlotte’s nightlife options.
Meanwhile, the community rallied to support Latino-owned businesses facing challenges due to an increased presence of U.S. Border Patrol.
Entrepreneurial openings like a new immigrant-owned wellness restaurant aimed to offer healthy fare in Camp North End, showcasing the diversity and growth in the local food industry.
Overall, November was a dynamic month for Charlotte’s food and beverage sectors, marked by significant achievements and community efforts.
Greenville, South Carolina, has been chosen by Michelin as the host territory for the Guide ceremony which was held in November at the Peace Center.
NO. 1: WILL A CHARLOTTE RESTAURANT EARN A MICHELIN STAR THIS YEAR? SIGNS POINTED TO YES
As Michelin prepared for the big reveal of its Michelin Guide American South on Monday, Nov. 3, at Greenville’s Peace Center, many in Charlotte’s restaurant industry were holding their breath. | Published October 9, 2025 | Read Full Story by Heidi Finley
The entrance to Panko Peruvian Fusion in NoDa. The new restaurant features a decorative pillar and large logo-adorned windows. By Melissa Oyler
NO. 2: PERUVIAN NIKKEI RESTAURANT PANKO OPENED IN NODA CHARLOTTE. WHAT TO KNOW
Michelin Guides director Gwendal Poullennec, chef/owner Sam Hart of Counter-, executive beverage director Michael Myers of Counter- and Michelin Guide American South ceremony host Java Ingram gather on stage with Michelin Man mascot Bibendum on Monday, Nov. 3 as Counter- was awarded one Michelin Star in addition to a Michelin Green Star. By Heidi Finley
NO. 3: CHARLOTTE RESTAURANTS WIN BIG, CELEBRATE MICHELIN GUIDE AMERICAN SOUTH HONORS
Michelin Guide officials announced selections for the new American South version of the little red book on Nov. 3, with several Charlotte eateries highlighted among the region’s best restaurants. | Published November 4, 2025 | Read Full Story by Heidi Finley
Rada is a new contemporary American restaurant serving up vegetable-forward, European-inspired cuisine on Selwyn Ave. By Laura Pol
NO. 4: ALL THE NC RESTAURANTS RECOGNIZED IN THE MICHELIN GUIDE AMERICAN SOUTH
Restaurants named in the Michelin Guide American South have been announced, and now is the perfect time to get a taste of what the food scene has been buzzing about all year. | Published November 3, 2025 | Read Full Story by Heidi Finley
Fried chicken and potato wedges from the Quik Shoppe. By Samantha Husted
NO. 5: MY FAVORITE GAS STATION EATS IN CHARLOTTE INCLUDE A DELI THAT’S A HIDDEN GEM
NO. 6: I WENT TO CHARLOTTE’S HOTTEST NEW SUSHI RESTAURANT. WAS IT WORTH IT?
I walked into Yugenn expecting a flashy sushi-and-cocktail bar, and left with a meal that was perfectly fine, likely to hit the mark for anyone seeking a polished night out in South End. | Published November 11, 2025 | Read Full Story by Evan Moore
At Foo Bar, customers find a mix of modern and retro arcade games, including Skee Ball.
NO. 7: SEE INSIDE: BAR WITH RETRO GAMES AND ‘NEON VIBES’ NOW OPEN IN CHARLOTTE
There’s a new arcade bar in South End Charlotte, and it promises to level up your next game night. | Published October 31, 2025 | Read Full Story by Tanasia Kenney
Food Truck Alley, an outdoor dining concept coming to Belmont, North Carolina, will feature a curated line up of local vendors serving an assortment of food options.
NO. 8: BELMONT NATIVE AIMS TO TURN DOWNTOWN LOT INTO FAMILY-FRIENDLY FOOD TRUCK PARK
What was once a parking lot will soon be the Charlotte area’s newest outdoor dining destination. | Published November 5, 2025 | Read Full Story by Tanasia Kenney
“Sage & Citrus is all about food as medicine, and flavor without compromise,” chef and founder Darius Johnson said.
NO. 9: VETERAN-OWNED WELLNESS RESTAURANT TO OPEN AT CAMP NORTH END. WHAT TO EXPECT.
Eating well is at the heart of a new restaurant concept coming soon to Charlotte. | Published October 31, 2025 | Read Full Story by Tanasia Kenney
Michelin announced its first North American Guide in 2005 for New York. Guides have also been added in Chicago (2011); Washington, D.C. (2017); California (San Francisco in 2008, statewide 2019); Miami/Orlando/Tampa, Florida (2022); Toronto (2022); Vancouver (2022); Colorado and Atlanta (2023); and most recently, Texas (2024).
NO. 10: 9 THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT THE MICHELIN GUIDE IN THE SOUTHEAST
“This was a hobby that just continued to grow, and we could not have asked for more success and acceptance,” said Michael Wolff, owner of Wolfie’s Howlin’ Bar-B-Que in Charlotte.
NO. 11: OWNERS OF CHARLOTTE BARBECUE JOINT ‘CALL IT QUITS’ AFTER MORE THAN A DECADE
A neighborhood barbecue joint closed up shop in Charlotte after 15 years — well, sort of. | Published November 3, 2025 | Read Full Story by Tanasia Kenney
Gwendal Poullennec, international director of the Michelin Guides, sat down with CharlotteFive for an in-depth interview on Tuesday, Nov. 4 in Greenville, SC, after the announcement of selections for the Michelin Guide American South. By Heidi Finley
NO. 12: MEET THE REAL MICHELIN MAN, THE FRENCH EXECUTIVE RUNNING THE MICHELIN GUIDES
With the announcement of the Michelin Guide American South, the Carolinas’ culinary scene is making its presence known. | Published November 4, 2025 | Read Full Story by Heidi Finley
A 2021 menu at Counter- restaurant in Charlotte was an origami paper fortune teller design. By Alex Cason
NO. 13: WHY IS THERE A DASH IN COUNTER-? THE STORY BEHIND CHARLOTTE’S MICHELIN STAR RESTAURANT
Nawadi Hyderabad House specializes in authentic Indian cuisine, including traditional curries and biryanis.
NO. 14: BIRYANIS, CURRIES + MORE: INDIAN RESTAURANT CHAIN EXPANDS WITH NEW CHARLOTTE SPOT
Charlotte is adding another authentic Indian restaurant to its dining scene. | Published November 6, 2025 | Read Full Story by Tanasia Kenney
Red Bridges BBQ Lodge menu items including the barbecue plate, hush puppies and the brisket sandwich. By Alex Cason
NO. 15: BEST CAROLINA-STYLE BARBECUE? THESE NC RESTAURANTS RANKED AMONG TOP 10 IN THE US
In the South, we all know there’s a soft spot in our hearts for barbecue. | Published November 7, 2025 | Read Full Story by Chyna Blackmon
Resident Culture’s Cumulo nonalcoholic drinks are made with THC and sparkling water.
NO. 16: CANNABIS BEVERAGES ARE HAVING A MOMENT IN CHARLOTTE. HERE’S WHERE TO FIND THEM.
Cannabis beverages — sparkling, citrusy, slightly herbaceous and increasingly easy to find on menus in Charlotte — are quietly changing the way people unwind. | Published November 7, 2025 | Read Full Story by Timothy DePeugh
The Tommy Boy pizza without pepperoni at Gravity Sourdough Pizza. By Tristan Graziano
NO. 17: FOLD, DIP AND ENJOY: GRAVITY SOURDOUGH PIZZA OFFERS A PLAYFUL PIZZA EXPERIENCE
Family-style dining at Mama Ricotta’s with a glass of red or white. By Michael Hrizuk
NO. 18: BEST RESTAURANTS IN CHARLOTTE? HERE ARE THE TOP 25 RIGHT NOW, YELP SAYS
There are no shortage of top-rated restaurants in the Charlotte metro, and locals aren’t shy about their favorites. | Published November 6, 2025 | Read Full Story by Tanasia Kenney
Dan Nguyen owns Lang Van restaurant in Charlotte, which was named a Bib Gourmand in the inaugural Michelin Guide American South. By Alex Cason
NO. 19: THIS IMMIGRANT-POWERED, WOMAN-OWNED SPOT SHINES AS A GEM IN CHARLOTTE’S CROWN
Lang Van is not a restaurant that visiting outsiders or new Charlotteans might easily stumble upon. | Published November 20, 2025 | Read Full Story by Heidi Finley
There’s a new biscuit joining Bojangles lineup, but not for long.
NO. 20: BOJANGLES DEBUTS NEW BISCUIT, BUT IT WON’T STICK AROUND.
Bojangles has added to its biscuit offerings, but the new item won’t stick around. | Published November 6, 2025 | Read Full Story by Tanasia Kenney
Prime Fish Cellar opened in February 2024 and is now closed for renovation into a wine bar featuring sushi and sake. By Heidi Finley
NO. 21: TEAM BEHIND MICHELIN-RECOMMENDED SUSHI SPOTS OPENS WINE, SAKE BAR. WHAT TO KNOW
After months of renovations, a Charlotte sushi and wine bar is back open. | Published November 6, 2025 | Read Full Story by Tanasia Kenney
A conceptual rendering of Bae’s Burger’s newest location. The build out is scheduled to begin in 2026.
NO. 22: CHARLOTTE-AREA BURGER JOINT PLANS NEW LOCATION AT CONCORD MARKETPLACE. WHAT TO KNOW
A Charlotte-area burger joint is bringing “the best smash in town” to a new city. | Published November 7, 2025 | Read Full Story by Tanasia Kenney
The People’s Market in Elizabeth. By Alex Cason
NO. 23: A POPULAR CHARLOTTE MARKET AND EATERY WITH TWO LOCATIONS IS PERMANENTLY CLOSED
Both locations of a popular all-day restaurant and market in Charlotte have permanently closed, citing “financial stress” and other obstacles. | Published November 11, 2025 | Read Full Story by Heidi Finley
The Pizza Peel is closing its last remaining location.
NO. 24: CHARLOTTE PIZZERIA TO CLOSE DOORS ON LAST REMAINING LOCATION. ‘WE ARE GRATEFUL’
The Holy Trinity at Sip & Cinder comes with three meats and two sides, along with Texas toast, pickles and pickled onions. Here, it’s pulled pork butt, smoked chicken and smoked kielbasa paired with mac and cheese and sorghum Brussels sprouts. By Heidi Finley
NO. 25: A WELL-KNOWN RESTAURANT TEAM IS BRINGING BARBECUE, UPSCALE BITES TO WAXHAW
A new restaurant from a Charlotte-area team known for delectable brunch, burgers and pasta is opening this week in Waxhaw. | Published November 12, 2025 | Read Full Story by Heidi Finley
Dilworth Neighborhood Grille owner Matt Wohlfarth. By Heidi Finley
NO. 26: A LONGTIME DILWORTH RESTAURANT HAS OPENED A SECOND CHARLOTTE-AREA LOCATION
A longtime food and drink favorite in Charlotte’s Dilworth neighborhood has expanded with a new location — and the customers are pouring in. | Published November 11, 2025 | Read Full Story by Heidi Finley
The iconic North Carolina doughnut chain Krispy Kreme is adding a new sweet treat category – soft serve ice cream – based on its original glaze flavor.
NO. 27: KRISPY KREME THANKS VETERANS WITH FREE DOUGHNUTS AND COFFEE. HERE’S WHAT TO KNOW
On Veterans Day, Krispy Kreme said “thank you” to those who’ve served our country with a sweet freebie. | Published November 10, 2025 | Read Full Story by Tanasia Kenney
Ramona Templin, left, and son Jedidiah Templin, owners of Mrs. Hanes’ Moravian Cookies near Clemmons, N.C., showcase their products in the retail store of the bakery. By TRACY KIMBALL
NO. 28: MEET THE NC FAMILY WHO’VE MADE MORAVIAN COOKIES BY HAND FOR MORE THAN A CENTURY
This year’s limited-edition Starbucks red cup features a festive drawing of a Starbucks coffeehouse.
NO. 29: STARBUCKS BARISTAS PLAN PROTEST ON RED CUP DAY. WILL CHARLOTTE STORES BE CLOSED?
Starbucks is ringing in the holidays with the return of Red Cup Day, but a planned strike by union baristas could bring the company’s biggest promotional day of the year to a grinding halt at some locations. | Published November 12, 2025 | Read Full Story by Tanasia Kenney
Bocadillos are traditional Spanish baguette sandwiches with meat and cheese. Marina’s Tapas will offer three versions. By Ryan Allen
NO. 30: A MICHELIN-RECOMMENDED CHEF’S CHARLOTTE TAPAS SPOT CLOSED
A well-known spot for pan con tomate, croquetas and patatas bravas in Charlotte has closed up shop. Marina’s Tapas, inspired by the Spanish great-grandmother of Michelin-recommended Customshop’s chef and co-owner Andres Kaifer, closed at Optimist Hall. | Published November 13, 2025 | Read Full Story by Heidi Finley
The City of Charlotte, NC skyline. By Lila Turner
NO. 31: BEST NEW RESTAURANTS AROUND CHARLOTTE? TELL US YOUR FAVORITE ADDITION FROM 2025
You’ve probably lost count of all the new restaurants that have opened in Charlotte this year — more than 150 to be exact. | Published November 17, 2025 | Read Full Story by Chyna Blackmon
The People’s Market’s two locations have closed, but a new effort by CLT Black Owned is raising money in hopes the doors can reopen once again. By Alex Cason
NO. 32: A MOVEMENT TRIED TO SAVE THE PEOPLE’S MARKET IN CHARLOTTE.
A group dedicated to supporting Black-owned businesses in Charlotte was working on an attempt to save The People’s Market after it announced its two locations were permanently closing. | Published November 13, 2025 | Read Full Story by Heidi Finley
A rendering of Comal Taco Co.’s space inside Charlotte’s Optimist Hall. By Courtesy of Comal Taco Co.
NO. 33: CHARLOTTE TACO JOINT WITH A SOUTHWESTERN SPIN IS TAKING THE MARINA’S TAPAS SPACE
A swap from tapas to tacos is underway at the former Marina’s Tapas space in Charlotte, which closed this month. | Published November 18, 2025 | Read Full Story by Heidi Finley
Midwood Smokehouse’s platter of barbecue meats, macaroni and cheese and collard greens. By Slice of Jess
NO. 34: BEST BBQ? THIS SPOT WAS VOTED NO. 1 IN CHARLOTTE — AGAIN. WHY FOLKS LOVE IT
Manolo Betancur closed his Charlotte bakery for the first time in 28 years earlier this month, and he didn’t know at the time when he would reopen. “It’s not worth it to take that risk,” he said. “We need to protect our families and family separation.” By Alex Cason
NO. 35: ‘THEY’RE NOT CHASING CRIMINALS.’ MANOLO’S BAKERY OWNER CLOSES STORE TO PROTECT CUSTOMERS
Manuel “Manolo” Betancur closed his Charlotte bakery for the first time in 28 years at the city’s arrival of U.S. | Published November 15, 2025 | Read Full Story by Joe Marusak
Compare Foods has several locations in the Charlotte area. By Alex Cason
NO. 36: CHARLOTTE GROCERY STORE OFFERS FREE DELIVERY TO PROTECT IMMIGRANT COMMUNITY
In a step to protect the city’s immigrant community while U.S. Border Patrol is around Charlotte, Compare Foods offered free grocery delivery and pickup. | Published November 15, 2025 | Read Full Story by Melissa Oyler
On the afternoon of Sunday Nov. 16, businesses in a plaza on Sugar Creek Road were closed, most with blinds down. Several local businesses closed to protect the safety of their customers and employees as the U.S. Border Patrol arrived in Charlotte. By Alex Cason
NO. 37: ‘CLOSED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE’: HOW CAN YOU HELP CHARLOTTE’S LATINO-OWNED RESTAURANTS AND BUSINESSES?
Charlotte’s restaurants and local businesses were affected by the presence of Border Patrol agents. Some restaurateurs closed entirely, others switched to takeout only, and some who remained open saw empty dining rooms. | Published November 16, 2025 | Read Full Story by Melissa Oyler
Bulldog Taproom/Social teased its expansion to Charlotte’s North Davidson neighborhood back in 2023.
NO. 38: NEIGHBORHOOD TAPROOM PERMANENTLY CLOSES IN NODA CHARLOTTE. HERE’S WHAT WE KNOW
After Bulldog Taproom and Social, a bar known for its selection of craft beers, quietly closed in Charlotte’s NoDa neighborhood, news broke of another local restaurant planning to take taking its place. | Published November 17, 2025 | Read Full Story by Tanasia Kenney
El Pulgarcito on Central Avenue in Charlotte was closed for business on Monday, Nov. 17. By Alex Cason
NO. 39: CHARLOTTE RESTAURANTS CLOSE OVER BORDER PATROL FEARS: ‘I CANNOT TAKE THE RISK’
The semi-covered patio space at Laurel Park includes a fire place and fire tables for warmth and ambiance. By Heidi Finley
NO. 40: LOCAL FLAVORS WITH GLOBAL INFLUENCES ARRIVING SOON AT FORMER VILLAGE TAVERN RESTAURANT
Within a few weeks, SouthPark diners will be yet again lunching and brunching in a familiar Charlotte space, although the view will be brand new, and the food will be, too. | Published November 21, 2025 | Read Full Story by Heidi Finley
Javier Morales co-owns Legends Ice Cream & Snacks in Charlotte, which has closed indefinitely among arrests by the U.S. Border Patrol. By Alex Cason
NO. 41: ‘WE SHOULD HAVE BEEN BUSY … NOW WE’RE DEALING WITH OUR SHUTDOWN.’ CHARLOTTE SHOP CLOSES
Charlotte’s Latino-owned restaurants are among the businesses struggling as the U.S. Border Patrol remained. | Published November 18, 2025 | Read Full Story by Heidi Finley
The menu at Haraz Coffee House features a variety of pastries from pistachio cake to fresh muffins and croissants.
NO. 42: CAFÉ SERVING AUTHENTIC YEMENI COFFEE OPENS IN BALLANTYNE CHARLOTTE. WHAT TO KNOW
Haraz Coffee House is expanding in Charlotte with a new spot in Ballantyne. | Published November 18, 2025 | Read Full Story by Tanasia Kenney
Manuel “Manolo” Betancur stands with supporters outside his now-closed Manolo’s Bakery on Monday, November 17, 2025. The protest grew quickly after Betancur announced he would close the shop for the first time in 28 years due to safety concerns over federal immigration enforcement in Charlotte. By Alex Cason
NO. 43: HUNDREDS PROTESTED BORDER PATROL AT MANOLO’S BAKERY IN CHARLOTTE: ‘STRONGER TOGETHER’
The protest began small. A handful of supporters gathered outside Manolo’s Bakery in Charlotte, two days after owner Manuel “Manolo” Betancur told CharlotteFive he would have to close the shop for the first time in 28 years. And then it grew.| Published November 18, 2025 | Read Full Story by Melissa Oyler
Sabor Latin Street Grill in Steele Creek was packed at lunchtime on Tuesday, Nov. 18, 2025. By Heidi Finley
NO. 44: CHARLOTTE’S LATIN RESTAURANTS FACED WORKER FEARS, FEWER CUSTOMERS AS RAIDS PERSISTED
Dalton Espaillat, who is among the area’s most successful restaurateurs, was among those watching the Border Patrol events taking place and sharing concern, even though his businesses weren’t among those hardest hit. | Published November 18, 2025 | Read Full Story by Heidi Finley
Chris Santiago, general manager of the South End location of Tacos El Nevado, stands in front of the Central Avenue location. By Alex Cason
NO. 45: TACOS EL NEVADO IN CHARLOTTE PLANNED ITS REOPENING WITH SECURITY MEASURES
Tacos El Nevado, a Mexican restaurant with three Charlotte locations, welcomed patrons back. | Published November 20, 2025 | Read Full Story by Heidi Finley
Fontana di Vino’s Spaghetti Pomodoro.
NO. 46: A SECOND LOCATION OF THIS NEW ITALIAN RESTAURANT IS OPENING SOON IN LAKE NORMAN
A new Italian restaurant that’s been in the works for quite some time will open soon in Lake Norman, bringing fresh pasta, prime steaks and pizza-like pinsa flatbreads to the area’s dining scene. | Published November 21, 2025 | Read Full Story by Heidi Finley
Francisco Valle, manager of Lempira Restaurant spoke about the decrease in customers the restaurant has seen following the announcement that Customs and Border Protection agents could arrive in Charlotte, NC as early as Saturday, November 15, 2025. By JEFF SINER
NO. 47: ‘THE COMMUNITY IS COMING IN.’ LOCAL SUPPORT HELPED LEMPIRA ON CENTRAL CARRY ON
On Friday, Nov. 14, Lempira Restaurant on Central Avenue sat empty. The restaurant was open, but news of U.S. Border Patrol coming to Charlotte to perform similar raids seen in Chicago, had shaken the Hispanic community and its corridors. | Published November 19, 2025 | Read Full Story by Desiree Mathurin
A shopper holds a jar of McCormick Mayonesa with lime juice outside the Wow Supermarket in Charlotte. The market specializes in a wide range of international and regional food products often unavailable at major chains. By Tonya Price
NO. 48: EMPTY AISLES: LATINO MARKETS + GROCERY STORES AROUND CHARLOTTE TO SUPPORT TODAY
Shelves are stocked but aisles have been empty this week at many of Charlotte’s Latino-owned grocery stores this week as shoppers avoid the markets due to heightened U.S. Border Patrol activity. | Published November 20, 2025 | Read Full Story by Melissa Oyler
The spinach & feta danish and pistachio cheesecake at Haraz Coffee House. By Evan Moore
NO. 49: I TRIED A NEW COFFEE SHOP IN CHARLOTTE. YOU SHOULD, TOO — BUT NOT FOR THE DRINKS
I arrived at Haraz Coffee House precisely at noon on Friday, which was, in retrospect, poor planning. | Published November 25, 2025 | Read Full Story by Evan Moore
The Pour Market has sandwiches, brats, grab-and-go meals and market fare along with craft beer and wine.
NO. 50: ROCK HILL HAS A NEW DOWNTOWN SPOT FOR CRAFT BEER, WINE, EVENTS AND ARTISAN EATS
The Power House just added a new spot for craft beer, wine, charcuterie boards, sandwiches and quick meals in downtown Rock Hill. | Published November 21, 2025 | Read Full Story by John Marks
Manolo’s Bakery owner Manolo Betancur hugs a customer outside his shop. By Khadejeh Nikouyeh
NO. 51: MANOLO’S BAKERY REOPENS IN CHARLOTTE WITH A CALL FOR UNITY AMID CONTINUING UNEASE
Doughnuts, cakes and the Latin treats that Manolo’s Bakery has long been known for in Charlotte are back, although unease continues. | Published November 24, 2025 | Read Full Story by Heidi Finley
A new restaurant is coming to the former Futo Buta space in South End Charlotte. By B Side Group
NO. 52: A YET-UNNAMED RESTAURANT IS MOVING IN TO THE FORMER FUTO BUTA SPACE IN CHARLOTTE
Noodles are coming back to the South End Charlotte space where ramen shop Futo Buta once stood. | Published November 24, 2025 | Read Full Story by Heidi Finley
Our favorite restaurants of 2024 included, from top left: Greco Fresh Grille, Haraz Coffee House, Little Mama’s, L’Ostrica, Prime Fish Cellar. By CharlotteFive photos
NO. 53: WHAT’S THE BEST MEAL YOU ATE IN 2025 AT A CHARLOTTE-AREA RESTAURANT? LET US KNOW.
Ok foodies, we ride at dawn: this one has your name all over it. Every year, we ask you for the best meal you ate at a Charlotte-area restaurant. Published November 28, 2025 | Read Full Story by Melissa Oyler
The summary above was drafted with the help of AI tools and edited by journalists in our News division. All stories listed were reported, written and edited by McClatchy journalists.
A decade ago, the idea that Michelin Guide inspectors would descend upon Cleveland’s restaurant scene would have been ludicrous. Not because of the quality of our product, but simply because we were well outside the scope of their purview. The famous French tire company had not deigned to cross the pond until 2005, when it published its first American guide that covered the five boroughs of New York City.
But things have shifted since then, with Michelin rolling out new guides with fresh urgency. Since touching down in the Big Apple, the revered reviewers have advanced to California, Washington, D.C., Chicago and Florida. As you can see, some guides are limited to a specific city, while others ostensibly cover an entire state.
Expansion has picked up even more lately with the introduction of regional guides, such as the American South Guide and the Northeast Cities Guide, which until now had consisted solely of Chicago, New York City and Washington, D.C. But this year, Philadelphia and Boston were added to the mix.
So what is fueling all this expansion? Well, money, of course. Over the past decade or so, Michelin has begun “partnering” with regional tourism boards to help offset the expense of bringing inspectors in to undertake the comprehensive review process. These deals, once struck, secure a commitment by Michelin to evaluate the best restaurants in their cities. It does not, however, guarantee that a single star will be granted.
And we’re talking a lot of money here, folks. In a recent New York Times article, a representative from the Colorado Tourism Office stated that his agency agreed to pay $100,000 a year for three years to bring in inspectors. But those state funds were matched by other payouts ($70,000 to $100,000 each, according to the Times) from civic and private groups from Denver, Boulder, Aspen, Vail and the resort communities of Snowmass and Beaver Creek.
Cities or regions who decline to “partner” with Michelin will not be included, which is why we used the word “ostensibly” earlier. Although it is a Colorado Guide, many excellent restaurants were immediately ineligible simply because they were located in cities that refused to pony up.
There is no denying the luster of a Michelin star – or two, or three. They serve as a beacon for travelers, who increasingly plan entire trips around dining. International travelers especially use Michelin stars to guide their journeys. Professionals who have earned stars are forever referred to as “Michelin-starred chefs.” Not only does the recognition bring in hordes of diners, it brings in talent, much the same way a James Beard Award attracts would-be sous chefs.
When evaluating a meal, the anonymous inspectors evaluate the quality of ingredients; mastery of flavor and cooking techniques; personality of the chef represented in the dining experience; harmony of the flavors; and consistency between visits. The stars, from one to three, famously translate to worth a stop, worth a detour, and worth a journey. Stars must be re-earned every year.
When the first Michelin Guide Colorado was to be published in 2023, Laura Young was eagerly anticipating the results. As founder and editor of New Denizen, an independent website that expertly covers Denver’s frothy food scene, Young digested the news. That first year, only five restaurants in the entire state earned one-star acclaim, three of which are located in Denver. None earned two or three stars.
In the latest roundup, eight Colorado restaurants earned one-star distinction and one snagged two stars.
As an insider, Young has opinions.
“From a local perspective, I don’t think anyone in the industry would say that the list gets it 100-percent right,” she told me via email. “There are some absolutely glaring omissions which makes everyone scratch their heads.”
Apart from that notable Michelin-starred taco stand in Mexico City, Michelin-starred restaurants tend to adhere to a format. They typically are those temples of gastronomy lorded over by tweezer-obsessed chefs who host multi-course, tasting menu-only meals that fetch hundreds of dollars per person. Those and super-luxe Japanese omakase counters.
That certainly proved true in Denver, Young noted.
“They clearly have a preference for a certain type of restaurant – namely expensive tasting menus,” she said.
Of the seven Michelin-starred restaurants in Denver, all but two are tasting-menu-style restaurants, according to Young.
So the obvious question is: Will Cleveland ever play host to those famed and feared Michelin inspectors, perhaps as part of a new Midwest Guide or Great Lakes Guide. I reached out to a representative from Destination Cleveland, the organization that likely would be responsible for bringing them to town, for an answer.
“Cleveland’s culinary scene is a hallmark of our visitor experience,” Emily Lauer, VP of PR for Destination Cleveland responded. “If Michelin continues to broaden the markets they review, we’d be open to learning more, including how recognition like Michelin stars contributes to growth in both tourism and local restaurants’ sales.”
How would we fare if we did get the Michelin treatment? It’s impossible to say given the subjectivity, secrecy and fluidity of the evaluation process. There doesn’t appear to be a large number of area restaurants that fit neatly into the Michelin mold. And any located outside Cuyahoga County proper – Destination Cleveland’s coverage area – would likely not be up for consideration.
Of course, there are lesser distinctions such as the Bib Gourmand, which signify a “good value” eatery, and Michelin-recommended restaurants, which fail to achieve either starred or Bib Gourmand status. But any of these achievements are honors that will bring diners through the door.
“For restaurants that get stars for the first time, it definitely impacts their business in the short term,” adds Young from Denver. “To make it last long term, that’s up to the team to deliver the experience that brings people back or makes them recommend.”
The articles discuss the Michelin Guide American South, highlighting how Charlotte restaurants feature prominently in the awards. They reveal which eateries received honors, showcasing the emerging food scene in the Carolinas.
“Charlotte restaurants win big, celebrate Michelin Guide American South honors” reports that the tasting restaurant Counter- earned both a Michelin Star and a Green Star.
Additionally, Lang Van received a Bib Gourmand.
Chef Joe Kindred’s restaurants, including Hello, Sailor, earned recommended status along with Restaurant Constance.
“All the NC restaurants recognized in the Michelin Guide American South” outlines various recognition levels, such as Michelin Stars, Bib Gourmand, and Recommended. It lists which North Carolina restaurants received these honors across multiple cuisines.
“Why is there a dash in Counter-? The story behind Charlotte’s Michelin Star restaurant” focuses on Counter-, which won a Michelin Star and a Green Star, as well as its founder’s vision. It describes how the restaurant pushes culinary boundaries with its creative tasting menu.
Michelin Guides director Gwendal Poullennec, chef/owner Sam Hart of Counter-, executive beverage director Michael Myers of Counter- and Michelin Guide American South ceremony host Java Ingram gather on stage with Michelin Man mascot Bibendum on Monday, Nov. 3 as Counter- was awarded one Michelin Star in addition to a Michelin Green Star. By Heidi Finley
NO. 1: CHARLOTTE RESTAURANTS WIN BIG, CELEBRATE MICHELIN GUIDE AMERICAN SOUTH HONORS
Michelin Guide officials announced selections for the new American South version of the little red book on Monday, with several Charlotte eateries highlighted among the region’s best restaurants. | Published November 4, 2025 | Read Full Story by Heidi Finley
Rada is a new contemporary American restaurant serving up vegetable-forward, European-inspired cuisine on Selwyn Ave. By Laura Pol
NO. 2: ALL THE NC RESTAURANTS RECOGNIZED IN THE MICHELIN GUIDE AMERICAN SOUTH
Restaurants named in the Michelin Guide American South have been announced, and now is the perfect time to get a taste of what the food scene has been buzzing about all year. | Published November 3, 2025 | Read Full Story by Heidi Finley
Gwendal Poullennec, international director of the Michelin Guides, sat down with CharlotteFive for an in-depth interview on Tuesday, Nov. 4 in Greenville, SC, after the announcement of selections for the Michelin Guide American South. By Heidi Finley
NO. 3: MEET THE REAL MICHELIN MAN, THE FRENCH EXECUTIVE RUNNING THE MICHELIN GUIDES
With the announcement of the Michelin Guide American South, the Carolinas’ culinary scene is making its presence known. | Published November 4, 2025 | Read Full Story by Heidi Finley
Joe Cash’s Scoundrel restaurant in Greenville, SC, was awarded one star from Michelin.
NO. 4: 4 SC RESTAURANTS EARN MICHELIN STARS — A FIRST FOR THE SOUTH. HERE’S WHO WAS HONORED
Four South Carolina restaurants have been awarded one star in the inaugural selection of the Michelin Guide for the American South. | Published November 4, 2025 | Read Full Story by Lyn Riddle
A 2021 menu at Counter- restaurant in Charlotte was an origami paper fortune teller design. By Alex Cason
NO. 5: WHY IS THERE A DASH IN COUNTER-? THE STORY BEHIND CHARLOTTE’S MICHELIN STAR RESTAURANT
The summary above was drafted with the help of AI tools and edited by journalists in our News division. All stories listed were reported, written and edited by McClatchy journalists.
The newest Michelin Guide includes 19 restaurants in the Triangle, from avant garde fine dining to a barbecue trailer in the Raleigh suburbs.
For a century, the Michelin Guide has been the most coveted culinary honor in the world, bestowing its star system on the best restaurants in the biggest food cities.
On Monday, Michelin unveiled its latest guide, The American South, which rates restaurants in Alabama, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee.
Michelin is most famous for its star system, awarding one, two or three stars on the very best restaurants in the world. A Three Michelin Star restaurant represents an exclusive and rare tier of food quality and dining excellence, two stars means “excellent cooking” and one star is “high quality” cooking.
Simply earning one star would represent a monumental achievement in the restaurant world.
In the Triangle, 19 restaurants are included in the American South Guide. Of those, 15 earned a “Michelin Recommended” designation, representing “good cooking” in the region. Three others earned Bib Gourmand honors, which highlight good quality restaurants that also offer a good value, according to inspectors.
Michelin was expected to unveil its new American South guide Monday night, Nov. 3, at a ceremony in Greenville, SC, but instead appeared to release the list Monday morning. Michelin has not confirmed the restaurant selections included in the email
Herons in Cary, regarded as one of the South’s top fine dining restaurants, is one of 19 Triangle spots included in the new American South Michelin guide. Anna Routh Barzin Courtesy of The Umstead Hotel & Spa
The Triangle’s Michelin Bib Gourmand honorees
The Bib Gourmand restaurants, which Michelin recognizes as “eateries for great food at a great value.”
Mala Pata Molino & Cocina, 2431 Crabtree Blvd Suite 102, Raleigh
Prime Barbecue, 403 Knightdale Station Run, Knightdale
Sam Jones BBQ, 502 W. Lenoir St., Raleigh
Nanas in Durham is one of 19 Triangle restaurants included in the new American South guide from Michelin. Kaitlin McKeown kmckeown@newsobserver.com
Michelin Recommended restaurants in Raleigh, Durham, Cary
Here are the Michelin Recommended restaurants, which means “simply a good meal.”
Brewery Bhavana, 218 S Blount St, Raleigh
Brodeto, 2201 Iron Works Dr suite 137, Raleigh
Crawford & Son, 618 N. Person St., Raleigh
Dampf Good BBQ, 6800 Good Hope Church Rd., Cary
Herons, 100 Woodland Pond Dr, Cary
Jolie, 620 N. Person St., Raleigh
Little Bull, 810 N. Mangum St., Durham
Nanas, 2514 University Dr., Durham
Nikos, 905 W Main St Unit 21B, Durham
Poole’s Diner, 428 S. McDowell St., Raleigh
St Roch Fine Oysters + Bar, 223 S Wilmington St, Raleigh
Seraphine, 324 Blackwell St Suite 4, Durham
Stanbury, 938 N Blount St, Raleigh
Tamasha Modern Indian, 4200 Six Forks Rd Suite # 130, Raleigh
The Fearrington House, 230 Market St, Pittsboro
The Pit Authentic BBQ, 328 W Davie St, Raleigh
How Michelin divides NC
With the American South guide, Michelin is introducing a new regional culinary look, rather than focusing on a state or major city. Throughout the seven states included in the guide, Michelin selected 228 restaurants offering 44 different cuisines, by its own count.
Beyond the single star for Counter, Michelin gave North Carolina seven Bib Gourmand designations and 37 Michelin Recommended honors.
To be in the Michelin guide, Visit NC and tourism offices Visit Raleigh, Discover Durham, Charlotte Regional Visitors Authority and Explore Ashevillewill pay Michelin a little more than $1 million over the course of a three-year deal.
In this first year of the guide, Michelin selected only restaurants in those cities or metro areas.
Prime Barbecue in Knightdale, NC, serves a variety of smoked meat sandwiches including the pork topped with slaw. Juli Leonard jleonard@newsobserver.com
North Carolina BBQ shines
While Michelin has a global reputation for recognizing fine dining, the new American South guide also put a spotlight on North Carolina’s greatest regional delicacy: barbecue.
Four Triangle barbecue joints were selected in this first guide — Prime Barbecue and Sam Jones BBQ — which each nabbed Bib Gourmand honors. The outdoor barbecue trailer Dampf Good BBQ in Cary and the influential barbecue institution The Pit were also included.
“I’m literally blown away to be honored by such a prestigious organization,” Sam Jones said in an email. “Being a fourth-generation BBQ man, I wish my family who have gone before me could see where barbecue has gone and the opportunities we’ve had to take what they’ve started in a literal hole in the ground in Ayden, N.C. to a national spotlight. It’s nice to see the hard work and effort that we collectively put in on a daily basis be recognized and I’m glad that the torch that was passed to me burns brighter today than it did before.”
Crawford crushes
Raleigh chef Scott Crawford stands out on the North Carolina list with three Michelin Recommended restaurants: his flagship Crawford & Son, French bistro Jolie and ode to the Adriatic Sea, Brodeto.
Most of Crawford’s career has been spent in luxury hotel dining throughout the South, leading fine dining kitchens at some of the region’s top resorts, including time at Herons and the Umstead Hotel in Cary. Staying in the south previously meant foregoing the pursuit of Michelin honors in New York or San Francisco or Chicago, but not anymore Crawford said.
“Just Michelin coming here means the South is to be taken seriously for its restaurants and hospitality and its food,” Crawford said. “That alone is extraordinary. There are so many great and talented chefs working in the South doing amazing work. It’s gratifying to have them looking here and taking that work seriously and that that commitment to excellence is being recognized.”
Flautas de papas are pictured during a soft opening of Mala Pata on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, in Raleigh, N.C. Kaitlin McKeown The News & Observer
This story was originally published November 3, 2025 at 2:09 PM.
Drew Jackson writes about restaurants and dining for The News & Observer and The Herald-Sun, covering the food scene in the Triangle and North Carolina.
Nanas in Durham is one of 19 Triangle restaurants included in the new American South guide from Michelin.
Kaitlin McKeown
kmckeown@newsobserver.com
The newest Michelin Guide includes 19 restaurants in the Triangle, from avant garde fine dining to a barbecue trailer in the Raleigh suburbs.
For a century, the Michelin Guide has been the most coveted culinary honor in the world, bestowing its star system on the best restaurants in the biggest food cities.
On Monday, Michelin unveiled its latest guide, The American South, which rates restaurants in Alabama, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee.
Michelin is most famous for its star system, awarding one, two or three stars on the very best restaurants in the world. A Three Michelin Star restaurant represents an exclusive and rare tier of food quality and dining excellence, two stars means “excellent cooking” and one star is “high quality” cooking.
Simply earning one star would represent a monumental achievement in the restaurant world.
In the Triangle, 19 restaurants are included in the American South Guide. Of those, 15 earned a “Michelin Recommended” designation, representing “good cooking” in the region. Three others earned Bib Gourmand honors, which highlight good quality restaurants that also offer a good value, according to inspectors.
Michelin was expected to unveil its new American South guide Monday night, Nov. 3, at a ceremony in Greenville, SC, but instead appeared to release the list Monday morning. Michelin has not confirmed the restaurant selections included in the email
Herons in Cary, regarded as one of the South’s top fine dining restaurants, is one of 19 Triangle spots included in the new American South Michelin guide. Anna Routh Barzin Courtesy of The Umstead Hotel & Spa
Here are the Triangle’s Michelin honorees:
Bib Gourmand, which Michelin describes as “recognizes eateries for great food at a great value.”
Mala Pata Molino & Cocina
2431 Crabtree Blvd Suite 102, Raleigh
Prime Barbecue
403 Knightdale Station Run, Knightdale
Sam Jones BBQ
502 W. Lenoir St., Raleigh.
Nanas in Durham is one of 19 Triangle restaurants included in the new American South guide from Michelin. Kaitlin McKeown kmckeown@newsobserver.com
Drew Jackson writes about restaurants and dining for The News & Observer and The Herald-Sun, covering the food scene in the Triangle and North Carolina.
Michelin announced its first North American Guide in 2005 for New York. Guides have also been added in Chicago (2011); Washington, D.C. (2017); California (San Francisco in 2008, statewide 2019); Miami/Orlando/Tampa, Florida (2022); Toronto (2022); Vancouver (2022); Colorado and Atlanta (2023); and most recently, Texas (2024).
Michelin
The Michelin Guide is arriving in the Southeast, and Charlotte’s food scene is abuzz. With the star ceremony just days away, CharlotteFive has led the coverage from the very start — breaking news, tracking predictions, and explaining what the Guide really means for the city and region. Here are nine essential things to know, all drawn from our comprehensive local reporting, as Charlotte’s big culinary moment approaches.
9 things to know about the Michelin Guide coming to the Southeast:
1. The Southeast’s Michelin moment: official and historic
For the first time, the new “Michelin Guide American South” will assess restaurants across North Carolina, Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Tennessee and Atlanta — ushering Charlotte into a new era of culinary visibility. Full story
2. Guide basics: what Michelin really looks for
What qualifies a restaurant for a coveted Star? Anonymous inspectors judge by five criteria: quality of ingredients, harmony of flavors, mastery of techniques, chef’s voice in the cuisine, and consistency. The Guide also bestows Bib Gourmand and Green Star honors. How it works
3. The Charlotte debate: ready for Michelin, or not?
Not everyone agrees Charlotte is ready for its star turn—some critics argue the city needs more chef-driven vision, while others think Charlotte is ready to shine. See the op-ed
Greenville, South Carolina, has been chosen by Michelin as the host territory for the Guide ceremony which will be held in November at the Peace Center. Michelin
4. Impact: why the Guide matters for Charlotte
Inclusion brings more than awards — expect new food tourism, increased national recognition, and a boost for talented local chefs and the entire regional dining scene. Preview the impact
5. The money behind the Michelin move
Welcoming the Guide is a big investment: North Carolina tourism organizations are paying more than $1 million over three years to bring Michelin to the state. The funding details
6. Who’s on Michelin’s radar: expert and insider picks
Restaurants generating the most Michelin buzz? CharlotteFive has polled local experts and readers alike — listing Counter-, L’Ostrica, Restaurant Constance, Supperland and more as true contenders for Stars or special recognition. Community favorites
7. The star-worthy list: Charlotte’s (and NC’s) top bets
From homegrown newcomers to beloved classics, these are our reporters’ picks for Charlotte and statewide restaurants most likely to receive a Michelin nod. Our predictions
8. Michelin and the broader region
How does Charlotte fit into the larger Southern food story? Michelin has already made its mark on Atlanta and across the Southeast — here’s what star dining and foodie tourism look like, from barbecue to omakase. Guide to the region
9. What a Michelin Guide to NC could include
We took a deep dive into North Carolina’s potential star-worthy destinations—exploring restaurants across the state (beyond Charlotte) we think have Michelin potential. Star-worthy NC
Editor’s note: This list was curated with AI assistance but is based on original reporting from CharlotteFive — the authority on Michelin Guide coverage in Charlotte and the Southeast.
The Romantic suite at DREAMERS by DW in downtown Wilmington.
Courtesy of DREAMERS by DW
North Carolina’s hotel scene is officially on the map — and Michelin has taken notice.
The prestigious travel guide has awarded several hotels across the state with its sought-after Michelin Keys, a distinction that celebrates the best places to stay around the world.
Much like the famous Michelin Stars that honor top-tier restaurants, the Michelin Key program recognizes hotels that go above and beyond for travelers. This year marks only the third time Michelin has handed out these awards, and five North Carolina properties made the cut.
Earning One, Two, or Three Keys signals just how special each spot is, from “a very special stay” to “an extraordinary stay” worthy of the highest praise.
Michelin’s inspectors evaluate hotels via anonymous stays or visits, according to the company’s website.
They assess properties on five core criteria:
Excellence in architecture and interior design
Quality and consistency of service
Overall personality and character
Value relative to price
Meaningful contribution to the hotel’s setting or local experience
A hotel must perform well across all these areas to earn a Michelin Key, the company says.
Including the five North Carolina hotels recognized among the most outstanding across the country, the 2025 MICHELIN Guide U.S. hotel selection is made up of 16 Three Key hotels, 69 Two Key hotel, and 232 One Key hotels. You can find that full list online at guide.michelin.com.
Evan Moore is a service journalism reporter for the Charlotte Observer. He grew up in Denver, North Carolina, where he previously worked as a reporter for the Denver Citizen, and is a UNC Charlotte graduate.
The Michelin Guide returned to Atlanta on Monday after its debut in 2023, giving Atlanta area chefs and the city’s dining scene long-awaited recognition. Photo by Laura Nwogu/The Atlanta Voice
The Michelin Guide returned to Atlanta on Monday after its debut in 2023, giving Atlanta area chefs and the city’s dining scene long-awaited recognition.
O By Brush, Staplehouse, Omakase Table, and Spring were awarded one Michelin Star, and Masterpiece, Superica, Table & Main, and Whoopsie’s were each honored with the Bib Gourmand distinction.
Among the additions to the Michelin Guide, Ashleigh McFadden of Nàdair, a Scottish restaurant opened by celebrity chef Kevin Gillespie, earned the Michelin Sommelier Award, a significant achievement in the world of wine professionals. According to studies, only 11.3% of sommeliers in the U.S. identify as Black, compared to 51.4% who identify as white. Of the 279 Master Sommeliers in the world, only four are Black.
The Micheline inspectors were impressed by McFadden’s refreshing and thoughtful approach to the wine program at Nàdair and her ability to introduce guests to bold new flavors, expand their palettes, and take them on a journey they didn’t expect.
“I feel like wine should be for everyone and anyone, and I feel like everyone should be able to find something they like,” McFadden said as she accepted her award.
Photo by Laura Nwogu/The Atlanta Voice
For the second year in a row, The Michelin Guide did not award any Michelin stars to Black-owned restaurants or chefs in Atlanta. Only a handful of Black chefs have been awarded Michelin Stars, and it wasn’t until 2022 that Gerald Sombright became the first Black chef in the U.S. to be recognized with a Star. However, The Busy Bee and Bomb Biscuit Co. maintained its Bib Gourmand distinctions and Twisted Soul Cookhouse & Pours maintained its Michelin recommendation.
Houstonians already know that our city has a world class restaurant scene. We have James Beard Award winning chefs, restaurateurs and mixologists. We have one of, if not the most, diverse culinary landscapes to be found in the United States.
From pho and jollof rice to barbecue and birria, we have it all. We will even admit that our weird cousin Austin and our ugly stepsister Dallas have some mighty fine eats as well, as do many of our smaller cities and towns. Now that the MICHELIN Guide has announced that it is coming to Texas, we’d like to say “Howdy and what took you so long?”
The announcement was made July 16, 2024 and, according to a press release, the anonymous MICHELIN Guide Inspectors are already in the field, checking out our culinary diamonds in places like Austin, Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston and San Antonio. The first MICHELIN Guide Texas selection will be revealed later this year.
The inspectors will award the iconic MICHELIN Stars to the best of the best with the potential for one, two or three stars. Even one star is an amazing honor and often a catapult to success for a restaurant or chef that earns it. The MICHELIN Guide is also known for its Bib Gourmand which showcases restaurants offering high quality food at affordable prices. The MICHELIN Green Star is bestowed upon restaurants that stand out in the world of sustainable gastronomy. MICHELIN also presents special professional awards as well as restaurant recommendations.
Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the MICHELIN Guides, said in a press release, “The Texas culinary scene has proven to be an exhilarating one, with multicultural influences, homegrown ingredients and talent that is rich in ambition. Foodies and travel enthusiasts alike will find something to enjoy with such a broad dining scene spanning farm-to-table dishes, fusion cuisine, upscale dining and the famous Texas-style barbecue.” He also said that, based on the experiences of the anonymous inspectors, “Texas is a perfect fit for the MICHELIN Guide.”
And it’s a pretty big deal as Texas is only the 11th destination in North America for the MICHELIN Guide. It made its North American debut in New York in 2005, adding to its portfolio American metropolises such as Chicago, Washington D.C., Atlanta and San Francisco (eventually the state of California) plus Canadian cities Toronto and Vancouver. The MICHELIN Guide added the country of Mexico in 2024.
The renowned dining guide was originally a small red guide produced by brothers Andre and Edouard Michelin who, after founding their tire company in 1889 in a small town in France, realized that motorists needed convenient information such as maps, fuel stops and places to rest. After being a freebie, the MICHELIN Guide launched in 1920 as a 7-franc purchase listing restaurants and hotels. In 1926, the MICHELIN Guide began awarding stars and the rest is gastronomic history.
While the MICHELIN Guide and its selection process is completely independent and determined by anonymous inspectors, the MICHELIN Guide will work with Travel Texas on marketing and promotional activities.
Tim Fennell, director of Travel Texas, says, “The MICHELIN Guide will illustrate to global travelers the culinary journey that’s waiting to be discovered in our state, featuring restaurants that embody our heritage and introducing innovative chefs and local artisans who are redefining our food scene.”
In addition to the 2024 Texas restaurant selection, the MICHELIN Guide selection of hotels will also be revealed later this year.
The Michelin Guide Wednesday announced several new additions to its ever-growing list of recommended restaurants, and a handful of Orlando-area eateries made the cut.
The Michelin Guide has highlighted the best in dining since 1926, rating more than 30,000 establishments across the world and continuously adding to its guide. This year’s guide shouts out 19 new Florida additions, including five restaurants right here in Central Florida.
Orlando-area additions, all of which opened in 2023, are Zaru (udon dishes in Mills 50), Sushi Saint (high-quality temaki in downtown), Natsu Omakase (intimate omakase), Camille (Vietnamese-French fusion) and Chuan Fu (Szechuan cuisine in Winter Park).
These additions, all of which opened in 2023, may not come as a surprise, as they have each garnered their fair share of praise and pleased stomachs around town.
Zaru, Sushi Saint and Camille each grabbed themselves a spot on Orlando Weekly restaurant critic Faiyaz Kara’s “Top Tables of 2023” roundup, as well as happily satisfied reviews (Zaru, Sushi Saint, Camille). Chuan Fu, the Winter Park Szechuan house by the same team behind Chuan Lu Garden and U & Me Revolving Hot Pot, scored on Kara’s list of notable 2023 openings.
The 19 new Florida additions to the Michelin Guide also include six eateries in Tampa and eight in Miami. The full list is available now.
Eight Vancouver restaurants have joined the elite club of dining establishments around the world rated with a Michelin star.
The Michelin Guide unveiled the city’s inaugural ratings at a ceremony at the Vancouver Convention Centre on Thursday.
The guide currently rates restaurants with in about 60 cities on a scale of one to three stars, and is adding Canadian locations for the first time this year. None of the Vancouver establishments achieved a coveted two- or three-star rating this year.
The restaurants are:
AnnaLena
Barbara
Burdock & Co.
iDen & QuanJuDe Beijing Duck House
Kissa Tanto
Masayoshi
Published on Main
St. Lawrence
Another dozen restaurants were awarded ‘Bib Gourmand’ designation, which recognizes high-quality eateries offering two courses, a glass of wine and a dessert for under $60.
Last month, the guide unveiled its picks in Toronto, awarding one two-star rating to Sushi Masaki Saito and a dozen other one-star ratings. It also flagged 17 restaurants for its “Bib Gourmand” designation.
Michelin’s arrival in Canada is being driven by a partnership with local tourism boards, including Destination Vancouver on the west coast.
Toronto announced as first Michelin destinations in Canada
Despite this, the organization says it prides itself on the independence and confidentiality of its reviewers, who book reservations anonymously and pay for all of their meals to ensure they are treated like any other customer.
Michelin inspectors rate restaurants on five key metrics: Food quality, the harmony of flavours, the mastery of cooking techniques, the personality of the chef in the cuisine and consistency between multiple visits.
Speaking on CKNW’s MorningswithSimi, Ian Tostenson, president and CEO of the B.C. Restaurant and Foodservices Association, said the ratings are a bright spot for Vancouver restaurants still grappling with the fallout of the COVID-19 pandemic and B.C.’s labour shortage.
“This is such a positive story, we need more of these kinds of stories, even beyond restaurants it’s a cool business story for Vancouver, so I think it’s going to lift spirits in general,” he said.
“I’m sure there will be some restaurants we all know on the list, and I’m sure they are going to be very proud of their accomplishments.”
Being rated by the Michelin Guide can radically affect a restaurant’s fortunes.
Joël Robuchon, the late French chef who was awarded 32 stars over his career, more than any other chef, told Food and Wine magazine in 2017 that even a single star can bring big changes.
Toronto to become Canada’s 1st Michelin Guide destination
“With one Michelin star, you get about 20 percent more business. Two stars, you do about 40 percent more business, and with three stars, you’ll do about 100 percent more business,” he said.
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By that measure, being awarded a star can also be a double-edged sword, bringing with it its own set of strains.
French chef Marc Veyrat launched a failed lawsuit against the guide after being downgraded from three to two stars, while U.K. celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay reportedly said he cried when his New York restaurant The London lost its two stars, describing it as akin to “losing a girlfriend.”
“Interestingly, some restaurants don’t want it, because its a real investment in consistency of continuous investment in your staff and continuous investment in your food, it’s a lot of pressure,” Tostenson explained.
“You have to walk a fine line.”
The Michelin Guide first launched in 1889, when the Michelin tire company began publishing a guidebook for travellers including maps and gas stations as a way to promote driving trips.
It began awarding stars to fine dining establishments in 1926, and the company says it now rates more than 40,000 establishments across three continents.
Starting November 1, The Michelin Guide in collaboration with car-sharing service Turo will offer travelers exclusive culinary experiences, hotel stays and more.
Turo and The MICHELIN® Guide announced Drive to Table Experiences in New York and California that … [+] will officially open on November 1.
Turo
When you mix a 133-year-old-French tire maker with a modern, mid-aughts car sharing service, the results are pretty extraordinary.
To that end, The Michelin Guide in collaboration with Turo announced a new Drive to Table Experience launching November 1 that will include exclusive, behind the scenes access to culinary experiences ranging from private cocktail classes and kitchen sneak peeks to coveted dinner reservation at a Michelin-starred restaurant and an overnight stay at a luxury boutique hotel.
Participating restaurants, which all have a strong focus on sustainability, include Al Coro in New York City, Clover Hill in Brooklyn, Barndiva in Healdsburg, California and Bell’s in Los Alamos, California.
“This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience with a focus on sustainability,” Cara Cornelius, Director of Food and Travel Experiences for Michelin America said in a statement released today. “It’s the perfect blend of offerings from Turo and the MICHELIN Guide all rolled into one unforgettable weekend.”
Travelers who rent a Turo car from November 5 through Dec. 18 will receive a weekend road trip with … [+] a behind-the-scenes culinary experience from one of the participating restaurants along with dinner reservation for two, and a one-night stay at a Tablet Hotel.
Turo
In order to book this exclusive deal, travelers must select a car from Turo’s Drive to Table experience on their website. Each electric vehicle has been assigned to one of the four participating restaurants and will become available to book for $150-per-day starting next Tuesday, November 1st through December 18th.
“We are thrilled to be teaming up with Michelin to continue bringing Turo guests an experience they cannot find anywhere else, by celebrating the country’s best chefs and most innovative electric vehicles,” said Turo CEO Andre Haddad. “This partnership is a natural fit because both Turo and Michelin open the door to extraordinary experiences.”
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