In 2024, only 146 restaurants worldwide hold the coveted Michelin 3-star rating.
This elite group represents less than 1% of all Michelin-rated restaurants.
Earning three stars is the highest honor in the Michelin Guide system, awarded to restaurants offering exceptional cuisine that’s worth planning a special trip around.
Ready to discover the world’s most exclusive dining destinations? Let’s dive in.
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What is the current number of 3 star Michelin restaurants worldwide?
As of 2024, there are 146 Michelin 3-star restaurants globally.
Europe leads with 86, followed by Asia with 50, and the United States with 10.
Earning three Michelin stars is the highest honor, indicating exceptional cuisine worth a special journey.
The world of 3-star Michelin restaurants represents the pinnacle of fine dining. Michelin Guide inspectors rigorously evaluate establishments, considering factors like ingredient quality and cooking techniques. Among the elite is Chef William Bradley, a self-taught chef who has earned his place among the best. While most offer tasting menus, some provide à la carte options. The Michelin Guide website serves as a valuable resource for food enthusiasts, offering insights from each Michelin Guide inspector into these extraordinary culinary experiences. Breakdown of Michelin 3-star restaurants by region
Europe boasts the highest concentration of Michelin 3-star restaurants, with 86 establishments spread across the continent. France, in particular, is renowned for its culinary excellence and is home to many of these prestigious eateries. Spain and Italy also have a significant number of 3-star restaurants, showcasing their rich gastronomic traditions.
Global Michelin Star Distribution:
Europe has the most Michelin 3-star restaurants with 91, followed by Asia with 39 and the Americas with 5.
The United States Michelin 3-star restaurants
The United States has 10 Michelin 3-star restaurants, primarily concentrated in New York City and the San Francisco Bay Area. These establishments represent the pinnacle of American fine dining, offering innovative and exquisite cuisine.
Chef Thomas Keller, a prominent figure in the American culinary scene, has earned Michelin 3-star ratings for two of his restaurants: The French Laundry in Yountville, California, and Per Se in New York City. Keller describes the honor, stating, “Earning three Michelin stars is a recognition of the hard work, dedication, and passion that goes into every dish we create.”
The evolution of Michelin 3-star restaurants over time
The number of Michelin 3-star restaurants has grown steadily over the years, reflecting the increasing global appreciation for high-end gastronomy. In 2010, there were approximately 100 3-star establishments worldwide. By 2020, this number had risen to around 135, and as of 2024, there are 146 Michelin 3-star restaurants.
This growth can be attributed to several factors, including the rising popularity of food tourism, the increased accessibility of information about top-tier restaurants, and the dedication of chefs to pushing the boundaries of culinary innovation.
The Impact of Michelin star Restaurants on the Culinary World
Michelin 3-star restaurants have a profound impact on the culinary world, setting trends and inspiring chefs around the globe. These establishments often serve as incubators for innovative techniques and flavor combinations, which eventually trickle down to more accessible restaurants.
Moreover, the prestige associated with Michelin stars attracts food enthusiasts from around the world, contributing to the growth of culinary tourism. Cities and regions with a high concentration of Michelin-starred restaurants often experience a boost in tourism revenue, as visitors flock to experience the best of the best in the culinary world.
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Michelin star rating system explained
The Michelin Guide awards 1 to 3 stars to restaurants based on strict criteria
Earning 3 Michelin stars is extremely rare, with less than 1% of rated restaurants achieving this honor
Restaurants must maintain exceptional standards consistently to retain their 3-star rating
Michelin star levels and criteria
The Michelin Guide, published by the French tire company Michelin, is widely regarded as the ultimate authority on restaurant rankings worldwide. The guide awards 1 to 3 stars to restaurants based on a rigorous set of criteria:
One star: High-quality cooking very good restaurant, worth a stop. These restaurants offer skillfully prepared dishes using fresh ingredients.
Two stars: Excellent cooking, worth a detour. Two-starred establishments provide outstanding cuisine with finesse and creativity.
Three stars: Exceptional cuisine, worth a special journey. The highest accolade, 3 stars, is awarded to restaurants offering unparalleled dining experiences.
Evaluation process
Michelin inspectors, who remain anonymous, visit restaurants multiple times to assess the quality of ingredients, mastery of flavor and cooking techniques, personality of the chef, value for money, and consistency. They pay close attention to every aspect of the dining experience, from the presentation of dishes to the attentiveness of the service staff.
The rarity of earning 3 Michelin stars
Earning 3 Michelin stars is an extraordinary achievement, with less than 1% of all Michelin-rated restaurants holding this coveted title. As of 2024, there were 157 restaurants worldwide with 3 Michelin stars, showcasing the exclusivity of this elite group.
The rigorous evaluation process conducted by Michelin inspectors ensures that only the most exceptional restaurants are awarded 3 stars. Chefs and their teams must demonstrate uncompromising dedication to their craft, consistently delivering innovative, precise, and delightful cuisine.
Maintaining 3-star status
Once a restaurant earns 3 Michelin stars, the challenge lies in maintaining this prestigious status. Michelin inspectors continue to visit these establishments regularly to ensure that they uphold the highest standards. Any slip in quality or consistency can result in a restaurant losing one or more stars.
The prestige and pressure of 3 Michelin stars
Earning 3 Michelin stars brings immense prestige and recognition to a restaurant and its chef. It can attract food enthusiasts from around the world, willing to travel great distances for an unforgettable dining experience. However, this recognition also comes with intense pressure to maintain the highest standards day after day.
Chefs at 3-star restaurants often work tirelessly to create new, innovative dishes while ensuring that every plate leaving the kitchen is nothing short of perfect. The stress and demands of running a 3-star establishment can take a toll on even the most seasoned chefs.
Notable chefs and restaurants
Some of the most renowned chefs in the world have earned 3 Michelin stars, including:
Alain Ducasse (Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester, London; Le Louis XV, Monaco)
Gordon Ramsay (Restaurant Gordon Ramsay, London)
Massimo Bottura (Osteria Francescana, Modena, Italy)
Thomas Keller (The French Laundry, Yountville, California; Per Se, New York City)
These chefs and their restaurants have not only pushed the boundaries of culinary excellence but have also influenced the global dining scene, inspiring countless aspiring chefs and food enthusiasts.
The impact of Michelin stars on the restaurant industry
The Michelin Guide and its star rating system have had a profound impact on the restaurant industry. Earning Michelin stars can significantly boost a restaurant’s business, attracting more customers and allowing them to command higher prices. On the other hand, losing stars can be devastating, often leading to a decline in patronage and even the closure of establishments.
Critics argue that the immense pressure surrounding Michelin stars can stifle creativity and innovation, as chefs become more risk-averse in their pursuit of maintaining or earning stars. Others believe that the guide’s focus on fine dining may overshadow other essential aspects of the culinary world, such as sustainability, local cuisine, and affordability. To meet these high standards, many top-tier restaurants leverage restaurant management software to streamline operations, enhance efficiency, and deliver an exceptional dining experience.
Despite these criticisms, the Michelin Guide remains the most influential restaurant rating system globally, shaping the careers of chefs and the experiences of diners alike. The guide’s stringent criteria and the rarity of earning 3 stars continue to make it the ultimate benchmark for culinary excellence.
Most Michelin stars by city
🌟 Tokyo, Paris, and Kyoto lead the world in Michelin-starred restaurants
🌟 Paris and Tokyo boast an impressive 11 and 13 three-star restaurants, respectively
🌟 Hong Kong, despite its smaller size, is home to 8 prestigious three-star establishments
Cities with the highest number of Michelin-starred restaurants
When it comes to the total number of Michelin-starred restaurants, Tokyo, Japan, takes the top spot with an impressive 232-starred establishments, including 13 with the coveted three-star rating. Paris, France, follows closely with 117 starred restaurants, 11 of which have earned three stars. Kyoto, another Japanese city, boasts 112 Michelin-starred restaurants, with 9 holding three stars. Osaka, Japan, also makes the list with 102 starred restaurants, including 4 with the maximum three-star rating.
Tokyo’s dominance in the Michelin guide
Tokyo’s impressive number of Michelin-starred restaurants can be attributed to several factors, including the city’s diverse and innovative culinary scene, the high quality of ingredients, and the dedication of its chefs to their craft. According to a quote from Michelin Guide International Director Gwendal Poullennec, “Tokyo has an extraordinary culinary scene and an overwhelming passion for food. The city never ceases to amaze us with its dynamism and creativity.”
A Michelin Star Capital:
Tokyo has the most Michelin-starred restaurants overall with 226, including 12 three-star establishments.
Notable cities with multiple 3-star restaurants
While many cities around the world boast Michelin-starred restaurants, only a select few can claim multiple three-star establishments, the highest honor bestowed by the Michelin guide. Paris, France, and Tokyo, Japan, lead the pack with 11 and 13 three-star restaurants, respectively. Kyoto, Japan, follows closely with 9 three-star restaurants, while Hong Kong, despite its smaller size, is home to an impressive 8 three-star establishments.
Second Best Michelin Starred Country:
Japan has the second most 3-star restaurants with 21.
The allure of Paris’ three-star restaurants
Paris has long been considered a global culinary capital, and its impressive number of three-star restaurants is a testament to the city’s gastronomic prowess. Renowned chef Alain Ducasse, who has held three Michelin stars for his eponymous restaurant in Paris, once said, “The Michelin guide is the only guide that counts.” The city’s three-star restaurants, such as Guy Savoy, L’Arpège, and Le Pré Catelan, are known for their exquisite cuisine, impeccable service, and elegant ambiance.
France Dominates Michelin 3-Star List:
France has the most Michelin 3-star restaurants in the world with 29.
Hong Kong’s rising prominence in the Michelin guide
Despite its relatively small size compared to cities like Tokyo and Paris, Hong Kong has made a name for itself in the world of haute cuisine, with 8 three-star restaurants to its name. This achievement is particularly impressive given that the Michelin Guide only began covering Hong Kong in 2009. Chef Chan Yan Tak, the first Chinese chef to earn three Michelin stars for his work at Lung King Heen in Hong Kong, has attributed the city’s success to its “unique blend of Chinese and international influences, as well as the exceptional quality of its ingredients.”
The prominence of Asian cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and Hong Kong in the Michelin guide highlights the growing recognition of Asian cuisine on the global stage. As the culinary world continues to evolve and expand, it will be exciting to see how these cities, and others around the world, continue to innovate and push the boundaries of gastronomic excellence.
Famous 3-star Michelin chefs and their restaurants
Alain Ducasse
Alain Ducasse is a French chef known for his innovative cuisine and extensive restaurant empire. He currently holds 21 Michelin stars across his various establishments, making him one of the most decorated chefs in the world.
Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester (London, UK)
Located in the prestigious Dorchester Hotel, this restaurant has held three Michelin stars since 2010. Ducasse’s menu showcases contemporary French cuisine, focusing on seasonal ingredients and refined flavors. The restaurant’s executive chef, Jean-Philippe Blondet, works closely with Ducasse to maintain the high standards associated with the Alain Ducasse brand.
Le Louis XV – Alain Ducasse à l’Hôtel de Paris (Monte Carlo, Monaco)
Ducasse’s first three-star restaurant, Le Louis XV, opened in 1987 and has maintained its rating ever since. The restaurant offers Mediterranean-inspired cuisine in an opulent setting within the Hôtel de Paris. According to the Michelin Guide, “The dishes are a reflection of the region, like the locally caught fish and vegetables from the hinterland.”
Gordon Ramsay
British chef Gordon Ramsay is known for his fiery temper and no-nonsense approach to cooking. He has been awarded 22 Michelin stars throughout his career, although his current count stands at seven.
Restaurant Gordon Ramsay (London, UK)
Ramsay’s flagship restaurant has held three Michelin stars since 2001. The menu features modern French cuisine with British influences, showcasing the chef’s commitment to using top-quality ingredients. In an interview with Fine Dining Lovers, Ramsay stated, “I’ve always been a great believer in being true to the season and keeping it simple.”
Joël Robuchon
The late French chef Joël Robuchon was once titled “Chef of the Century” by the Gault Millau guide. He held the record for the most Michelin stars, with a total of 32 across his restaurants worldwide.
Joël Robuchon (Tokyo, Japan)
This three-star restaurant in Tokyo’s Ebisu district offers a refined dining experience, with a focus on French cuisine executed with Japanese precision. The menu features Robuchon’s signature dishes, such as his famous mashed potatoes, which have been described as “the world’s best.”
L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon (Paris, France; Hong Kong; Tokyo, Japan)
Robuchon’s L’Atelier concept, which means “workshop” in French, offers a more casual dining room experience, with guests seated around an open kitchen. The menu features small plates of innovative French cuisine, allowing diners to sample a variety of dishes. L’Atelier has three-star locations in Paris, Hong Kong, and Tokyo.
Thomas Keller
American chef Thomas Keller is known for his meticulous attention to detail and his ability to elevate classic dishes. He currently holds seven Michelin stars across his two restaurants.
The French Laundry (Yountville, California, USA)
Keller’s flagship restaurant, The French Laundry, has held three Michelin stars since 2006. The restaurant offers a nine-course tasting menu that changes daily, showcasing Keller’s innovative approach to French cuisine. In an interview with Robb Report, Keller said, “It’s not about being perfect; it’s about the pursuit of perfection.”
Per Se (New York City, New York, USA)
Keller’s East Coast outpost, Per Se, has also held three Michelin stars since 2006. The restaurant offers a similar experience to The French Laundry, with a nine-course tasting menu that highlights Keller’s unique culinary style. Per Se has been described as “a restaurant that is striving for perfection in every aspect of its operation.”
These celebrated chefs and their iconic restaurants represent the pinnacle of culinary excellence, as recognized by the prestigious Michelin Guide. Their dedication to their craft and their commitment to pushing the boundaries of gastronomy have earned them a place among the world’s best chefs and restaurants.
Michelin 3-star restaurant locations
The majority of Michelin 3-star restaurants are located in Europe, with France, Spain, Italy, and Germany leading the way.
Japan has the highest number of 3-star restaurants in Asia, followed by China, South Korea, and Singapore.
United States (13 restaurants)
The United States is home to a few Michelin 3-star restaurants, with California and New York being the only states to boast these prestigious establishments. California leads the way with 8 restaurants, while New York follows closely with 5.
America's Culinary Scene:
The United States has 13 Michelin 3-star restaurants.
California’s 3-star restaurants
California’s 6 Michelin 3-star restaurants are concentrated in the San Francisco Bay Area. The French Laundry in Yountville, led by Chef Thomas Keller, has maintained its 3-star rating since 2006. Other notable restaurants include Atelier Crenn in San Francisco, led by Chef Dominique Crenn, and SingleThread in Healdsburg, led by Chef Kyle Connaughton and his wife, Katina.
New York’s 3-star restaurants
New York City is home to all 4 of the state’s Michelin 3-star restaurants. Chef’s Table at Brooklyn Fare, led by Chef César Ramirez, has held its 3-star rating since 2012. Masa, led by Chef Masayoshi Takayama, is known for its exquisite Japanese sushi cuisine, while Eleven Madison Park, led by Chef Daniel Humm, offers a unique dining experience with its seasonal tasting menu.
Europe (86 restaurants)
Europe dominates the Michelin 3-star restaurant scene, with 86 establishments spread across the continent. France, the birthplace of the Michelin Guide, leads the way with 31 restaurants, followed by Spain and Italy with 12 each, and Germany with 11.
Number of 3 Starred Nordic Restaurants:
The Nordic countries now have a record of 6 restaurants with 3 Michelin stars as of 2024.
France’s 3-star restaurants
France has long been associated with haute cuisine, and its 31 Michelin 3-star restaurants are a testament to this reputation. Some of the most famous include Guy Savoy in Paris, led by the eponymous chef, and L’Auberge du Vieux Puits in Fontjoncouse, led by Chef Gilles Goujon.
Spain, Italy, and Germany’s 3-star restaurants
Spain’s 12 Michelin 3-star restaurants include Arzak in San Sebastian, led by Chef Juan Mari Arzak, and El Celler de Can Roca in Girona, led by the Roca brothers. Italy’s 12 3-star establishments include Osteria Francescana in Modena, led by Chef Massimo Bottura, and Piazza Duomo in Alba, led by Chef Enrico Crippa. Germany’s 11 3-star restaurants include Bareiss in Baiersbronn, led by Chef Claus-Peter Lumpp, and Waldhotel Sonora in Dreis, led by Chef Clemens Rambichler.
Asia (50 restaurants)
Asia is home to 50 Michelin 3-star restaurants, with Japan leading the way with 32 establishments. China follows with 11, while South Korea and Singapore each have 3.
Japan’s 3-star restaurants
Japan’s 32 Michelin 3-star restaurants are a reflection of the country’s dedication to culinary excellence. Notable restaurants include Sukiyabashi Jiro in Tokyo, led by the legendary Chef Jiro Ono, and Kichisen in Kyoto, led by Chef Yoshimi Tanigawa.
China, South Korea, and Singapore’s 3-star restaurants
China’s 11 Michelin 3-star restaurants include Ultraviolet by Paul Pairet in Shanghai, known for its avant-garde dining experience, and T’ang Court in Hong Kong, which specializes in Cantonese cuisine. South Korea’s 3 3-star restaurants include Gaon in Seoul, led by Chef Byeong-Jin Kim, while Singapore’s 3 3-star establishments include Les Amis, led by Chef Sebastien Lepinoy.
A New Region, A New Page:
Dubai gained its first 2-star restaurant in 2024 with the opening of Row on 45.
Can you get 4 Michelin stars?
No, the Michelin Guide’s highest rating is 3 stars
Restaurants cannot surpass the 3-star rating
Chefs may hold multiple 3-star ratings, but each new restaurant may only capped at 3 stars
The Michelin Guide’s 3-star rating system
The Michelin Guide, one of the most prestigious restaurant rating systems in the world, has a maximum rating of 3 stars. The guide’s inspectors award stars based on the quality, creativity, and consistency of a restaurant’s cuisine. A restaurant can earn 1, 2, or 3 stars, with 3 stars being the highest honor. Explore what distinguishes a Michelin-starred restaurant and understand the significance behind every star they receive.
The Michelin Guide defines its 3-star rating as “exceptional cuisine, worth a special journey.” Restaurants that achieve this rating are considered to be among the best in the world, offering unparalleled dining experiences.
Criteria for Michelin stars
To earn Michelin stars, restaurants must meet strict criteria set by the guide’s anonymous inspectors. These criteria include:
Quality of ingredients
Mastery of cooking techniques
Harmony of flavors
Consistency of dishes
The personality of the chef is expressed through the cuisine
Restaurants that excel in these areas have the potential to earn Michelin stars, with 3 stars being reserved for the most exceptional establishments.
No fourth star in the Michelin Guide
Despite the prestigious nature of the Michelin Guide’s 3-star rating, there is no higher accolade within the guide itself. Restaurants cannot earn a fourth star, as the guide’s rating system is capped at 3 stars.
This limitation ensures that the 3-star rating remains the ultimate achievement for restaurants and chefs. It also maintains the exclusivity and prestige associated with the Michelin Guide’s highest honor.
Chefs with multiple 3-star ratings
While individual restaurants cannot surpass the 3-star rating, some chefs have managed to earn multiple 3-star ratings across different restaurant locations. These chefs are often considered culinary icons, with their restaurants setting the standard for excellence in the industry.
Examples of chefs with multiple 3-star ratings include:
Alain Ducasse: With restaurants in Paris, London, and Monaco, Ducasse has held as many as 21 Michelin stars simultaneously.
Joël Robuchon: The late French chef held a total of 32 Michelin stars throughout his career, with restaurants spanning the globe.
Gordon Ramsay: The British chef has earned a total of 16 Michelin stars, with his signature restaurant, Restaurant Gordon Ramsay, holding 3 stars since 2001. These chefs demonstrate that while a single restaurant may be limited to 3 stars, a chef’s influence and culinary excellence can extend far beyond a single establishment.
The World’s Finest Dining Experiences
Michelin 3-star restaurants represent the pinnacle of culinary excellence, offering unparalleled dining experiences that are worth traveling for. With only 146 establishments holding this prestigious title worldwide, the competition is fierce, and the standards are exceptionally high. Explore how establishments achieve the coveted Michelin star status, understanding the rigorous criteria and the exceptional dedication required to stand at the summit of gastronomical achievement.
As you plan your next gastronomic adventure, consider exploring the cities with the highest concentration of Michelin-starred restaurants, such as Tokyo, Paris, or Kyoto. Each of these destinations boasts a unique culinary landscape, with renowned chefs showcasing their mastery of flavors and techniques. Uncover the secrets behind securing a Michelin star for your establishment in 2024 by delving into the refined art and strategy needed to achieve culinary excellence in these prestigious cities.
Which Michelin 3-star restaurant would you most like to visit, and why? Share your dream dining experience with us, and let’s celebrate the artistry and passion that goes into creating these unforgettable meals.
