The Lone Star State has officially entered the constellation of culinary destinations recognized by the esteemed Michelin Guide. The inaugural Michelin Guide Texas selection was unveiled, celebrating the diverse and dynamic dining scene across the state. Food lovers can now explore 15 restaurants distinguished with one Michelin Star, alongside two establishments honored with the Michelin Green Star for their commitment to sustainable gastronomy. The complete list, revealed at a ceremony in Houston’s 713 Music Hall, encompasses 116 restaurants, showcasing the breadth of 26 cuisine types and highlighting Texas as a vibrant culinary landscape deserving of global attention from the Michelin Guide.
“Our anonymous Inspectors were deeply impressed by the culinary community throughout Texas,” stated Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the Michelin Guides. “This inaugural selection truly reflects their findings, spotlighting the unique flavors of Texas, from iconic Barbecue and Tex-Mex to a rich tapestry of international culinary influences. We are incredibly honored to welcome these exceptional restaurants into the Michelin Guide family, and we raise a toast to the remarkable spirit and talent within the Texas restaurant community!”
Michelin Stars in Texas
The heart of Texas gastronomy beats strong, with restaurants across Austin, Dallas, Houston, and San Antonio achieving the coveted Michelin Star recognition. These stars signify exceptional cooking, reflecting the quality of ingredients, mastery of technique, harmony of flavors, expression of the chef’s personality in the cuisine, and consistency across both the menu and over time, all hallmarks of the Michelin Guide’s rigorous evaluation process.
Austin Shines with Michelin Stars
Austin, known for its eclectic vibe and innovative spirit, leads the state with seven restaurants earning their first Michelin Star. These establishments represent a diverse range of culinary styles, from contemporary cuisine to barbecue, showcasing the breadth of Austin’s dining scene as recognized by the Michelin Guide.
Barley Swine (Contemporary Cuisine)
Michelin Guide Inspectors’ Notes: Barley Swine offers a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, yet the culinary passion emanating from the kitchen is undeniable. Chef/owner Bryce Gilmore masterfully utilizes local ingredients, weaving in Southwestern flavors inspired by Mexican and Southern traditions, all while maintaining a sophisticated global perspective. The tasting menu, a highlight of the Michelin Guide review, changes with the seasons, balancing refined techniques with playful creativity. Diners might begin with a miniature everything bagel topped with smoked radish spread and dill hot sauce-infused cucumber, followed by perfectly seared Muscovy duck breast paired with a buttery popcorn puree and nixtamalized peach. Barley Swine’s commitment to sustainability, from using repurposed dishes to growing their own produce and collecting rainwater, further impressed Michelin Guide inspectors.
Craft Omakase (Japanese Cuisine)
Michelin Guide Inspectors’ Notes: Tucked away in Austin’s Rosedale neighborhood, Craft Omakase provides an intimate dining experience. Guests are invited to place their trust in Chefs Charlie Wang and Nguyen Nguyen, who present an impressive omakase journey of nigiri and other Japanese delicacies. The Michelin Guide praised the creative omakase, noting its tasteful embellishments that enhance, rather than overshadow, the quality of the fish. With a focus on sourcing premium ingredients, often directly from Japan, the chefs skillfully prepare dishes like pink shrimp aguachile with sweet potato or hamachi crudo with yuzu-honey sauce. The menu may feature ocean trout with crispy skin furikake, shima aji with shiso and ume, or sea scallop with ponzu and lemon zest, each exemplifying the high standards of the Michelin Guide.
Hestia (American Cuisine)
Michelin Guide Inspectors’ Notes: Hestia, located in downtown Austin, immediately captivates diners with the aroma of wood smoke, a testament to its focus on live fire cooking. The open kitchen, dominated by a 20-foot hearth, is the heart of this culinary hotspot. The Michelin Guide highlighted the contemporary approach to cooking evident in both the à la carte and chef’s tasting menus, which prominently feature Texas produce and proteins. Nearly every dish, from savory to sweet, carries the essence of flames or smoke. “Embered” cantaloupe with green tomato and shiso blossoms offers an elegant start, while hearth-dried tomatoes over grits provide comfort. The seared scallop with green tomato kosho, finished with a tableside pour of beef tallow sauce, was particularly lauded by Michelin Guide inspectors.
InterStellar BBQ (Barbecue Cuisine)
Michelin Guide Inspectors’ Notes: A testament to its quality, InterStellar BBQ draws a crowd long before opening its doors, a detail noted by the Michelin Guide inspectors. Pitmaster John Bates’s barbecue, cooked low and slow over post oak, is the main attraction. The brisket, simply seasoned with salt, pepper, and garlic, is exceptional. However, the Michelin Guide also recommends exploring beyond the brisket, with options like peach tea-glazed pork belly, beer-brined tipsy turkey, and a selection of sausages, including kielbasa. Enticing sides like Frito pie, smoked scalloped potatoes, and poblano creamed corn complete the experience, solidifying InterStellar BBQ’s place in the Michelin Guide.
la Barbecue (Barbecue Cuisine)
Michelin Guide Inspectors’ Notes: Founded by the late LeAnn Mueller and now led by her wife, Ali Clem, la Barbecue operates from a custom-built pit where “meaty miracles” are created, as described by the Michelin Guide. The vibrant and welcoming atmosphere, complete with a playlist of classic country tunes, adds to the experience. While a wait is expected during peak hours, the reward is the first bite of their sublimely succulent and flavorful brisket, a highlight for Michelin Guide inspectors. Beyond brisket, the Michelin Guide encourages diners to explore the equally tempting house-made sausages and ribs. The team’s penchant for spice is evident in dishes like chipotle coleslaw and fresh kimchi, and the mac and cheese is a must-try side.
Leroy and Lewis Barbecue (Barbecue Cuisine)
Michelin Guide Inspectors’ Notes: Starting as a food truck in 2017, Leroy and Lewis Barbecue now welcomes guests to a spacious brick-and-mortar location in Garrison Park. The Michelin Guide notes the midcentury-modern vibe of the space. While brisket is available as a weekend special, the menu offers a diverse range of barbecue options throughout the week, showcasing creativity beyond the traditional. Michelin Guide inspectors were intrigued by specials like spice-crusted beef cheeks and daily sausage variations, such as those with Hatch green chiles and mozzarella. The banana pudding tiramisu, a creative dessert hybrid, also caught the attention of the Michelin Guide.
Olamaie (American Cuisine)
Michelin Guide Inspectors’ Notes: Olamaie, named for the chef’s family matriarchs, presents a charming ambiance in north Austin, described by the Michelin Guide as a “white clapboard and black shutters” spot. The cocktail list, featuring daily punches and inventive drinks like the Spaghetti Western martini, is a notable highlight. The Michelin Guide praises the contemporary polish given to Southern cuisine at Olamaie. The buttermilk biscuit, served warm with whipped honey butter, is a standout, and the chicken pressé offers a novel take on chicken and dumplings. The menu also features blackened dayboat fish, gumbo, and red rice with Gulf shrimp, reflecting a sophisticated take on Southern flavors appreciated by the Michelin Guide.
Dallas Welcomes its First Michelin Star
Dallas’s culinary scene has officially earned its first Michelin Star, marking a significant milestone for the city’s dining landscape and its recognition within the Michelin Guide.
Tatsu Dallas (Japanese Cuisine)
Michelin Guide Inspectors’ Notes: With only 10 counter seats, securing a reservation at Tatsu Dallas is the primary challenge, but the reward is a truly authentic sushi experience, according to the Michelin Guide. The omakase menu, featuring around 14 pieces, adheres to the Edomae tradition, progressing from lighter to more intensely flavored fish. Ingredients are carefully sourced, including rice from Hokkaido, and Chef Tatsuya Sekiguchi’s precise techniques ensure each piece is perfectly crafted. The Michelin Guide highlights the chef’s willingness to customize the size of nigiri for guests. The communal dining experience, where all guests are served simultaneously, adds to the unique nature of Tatsu Dallas, now a proud member of the Michelin Guide.
Houston’s Culinary Scene Earns Michelin Recognition
Houston, a sprawling metropolis known for its international diversity, is well-represented in the inaugural Michelin Guide Texas selection, with six restaurants achieving one Michelin Star. These stars highlight the city’s diverse culinary offerings, from Spanish and French cuisine to barbecue, Indian, and Mexican, further establishing Houston as a key dining destination in the Michelin Guide.
BCN Taste & Tradition (Spanish Cuisine)
Michelin Guide Inspectors’ Notes: Located in a 1920s bungalow off Richmond Avenue, BCN Taste & Tradition offers a blend of culinary flair and familiar comfort, enhanced by personable service, noted by the Michelin Guide. Seafood is a particular strength, exemplified by tender sea cucumber with lobster rice and thinly sliced octopus with potato puree and smoked paprika. Chef Luis Roger’s expertise extends to land-based dishes, such as the Iberian suckling pig with crispy skin and red wine sauce. The Michelin Guide also points out the intriguing beverage selection, featuring an all-Spanish wine list and a dedicated gin and tonic section. Owner Ignacio Torras’s private art collection, including Picasso ceramics, adds a unique charm to this Michelin Star establishment.
CorkScrew BBQ (Spring; Barbecue Cuisine)
Michelin Guide Inspectors’ Notes: The Michelin Guide succinctly captures the essence of CorkScrew BBQ: “Arrive before doors open at 11 or go eat somewhere else.” This barbecue sensation, located north of Houston in Spring, has consistently drawn long lines since 2015. Known for selling out quickly, CorkScrew BBQ, led by Will and Nichole Buckman, smokes exceptional brisket and beef ribs using red oak, imparting a distinctive color and pure smoke flavor. While sides like loaded baked potatoes and fruit cobblers are tempting, the Michelin Guide suggests focusing on the core barbecue offerings on a first visit. Regulars, as noted by the Michelin Guide, know to order in advance to bypass the lines at this Michelin Star barbecue destination.
Le Jardinier Houston (French Cuisine)
Michelin Guide Inspectors’ Notes: Chef Alain Verzeroli brings his elegant and vegetable-forward cuisine to Houston, mirroring the style of his Manhattan and Miami locations. The Museum of Fine Arts setting complements the artful presentation of his dishes, described by the Michelin Guide as both beautiful and satisfying. Accomplished sauces, seasonal vegetables, and thoughtful cocktails are hallmarks of Le Jardinier. Highlights mentioned by the Michelin Guide include zucchini spaghetti with yellow pepper coulis and Comté foam, and Maine diver scallops with carrot jus reduction and sugar snap peas. Desserts, such as the yuzu mousse with raspberry compote, are visually stunning and delicious. The seamless service further enhances the dining experience at this Michelin Star French restaurant.
March (Creative/Mediterranean Cuisine)
Michelin Guide Inspectors’ Notes: March embarks on an ambitious culinary exploration of the Mediterranean, delving into specific regions with each tasting menu, a concept recognized and praised by the Michelin Guide. Despite its ambitious nature, the dining experience is described as “utterly disarming,” characterized by warm hospitality that makes for a meal that is both luxurious and engaging. Guests begin with cocktails and appetizers in a stylish lounge before moving to the main dining room for the tasting menu. The Michelin Guide highlights the gorgeously plated dishes, showcasing refinement and creativity throughout the meal at this Michelin Star Mediterranean culinary journey.
Musaafer (Indian Cuisine)
Michelin Guide Inspectors’ Notes: Located within a shopping mall, Musaafer defies expectations with its palatial ambiance and thrilling cuisine, an unexpected gem discovered by the Michelin Guide. The grand setting, with its arches, towering windows, and elaborate décor, sets the stage for an equally impressive dining experience. The Michelin Guide highlights the onion xuixo, a large, spice-dusted orb filled with potato and onion, and the prawns in coriander-coconut milk sauce. The 72-hour dal, a testament to the kitchen’s dedication, also earns praise. The attention to detail and careful spicing at every turn results in a dining experience that is both stylish and deeply satisfying, earning Musaafer its Michelin Star.
Tatemó (Mexican Cuisine)
Michelin Guide Inspectors’ Notes: Tatemó, a tortilleria-turned-tasting menu experience, exemplifies the adage “don’t judge a book by its cover,” according to the Michelin Guide. Located in a seemingly unassuming strip mall, Chef Emmanuel Chavez celebrates heirloom corn from across Mexico with beautifully composed and portioned dishes. The Michelin Guide praises his elegant interpretations of ceviche, quesadillas, and gorditas, enhanced by vibrant salsas and creative sauces. The black mole negro, served under a plantain tortilla, is highlighted as a particularly original and striking dish, showcasing the innovative approach at this Michelin Star Mexican restaurant.
San Antonio Joins the Michelin Star Family
San Antonio, with its rich history and cultural heritage, adds its culinary voice to the Michelin Guide Texas selection, earning its first Michelin Star.
Mixtli (Mexican Cuisine)
Michelin Guide Inspectors’ Notes: Mixtli, the brainchild of Chefs Diego Galicia and Rico Torres, is recognized by the Michelin Guide as a “trailblazing restaurant.” Driven by a shared reverence for Mexican cuisine and fine dining expertise, the duo presents tasting menus that frequently change, focusing on different regions of Mexico and exploring both contemporary and historical culinary traditions. The Michelin Guide describes the cooking as both “cerebral and delicious,” with meticulously prepared and artfully plated dishes that tell a story while delighting the palate at this Michelin Star San Antonio destination.
Michelin Green Stars for Sustainable Dining in Austin
Beyond the coveted Michelin Stars, the Michelin Guide also recognizes restaurants committed to sustainable practices with the Michelin Green Star. Austin proudly boasts both Michelin Green Star recipients in Texas, highlighting the city’s dedication to eco-conscious gastronomy.
Dai Due (Austin; American Cuisine)
Michelin Green Star Initiatives: Dai Due is lauded by the Michelin Guide for its comprehensive sustainability efforts, including: locally sourced produce, seed oil-free cooking, a robust recycling and composting program, locally sourced Texas wines and beers, ethical harvesting of meat products, minimizing food waste through reuse, and a fermentation program. These initiatives demonstrate Dai Due’s deep commitment to environmental responsibility, earning them a Michelin Green Star.
Emmer & Rye (Austin; American Cuisine)
Michelin Green Star Initiatives: Emmer & Rye’s Michelin Green Star reflects its dedication to sustainable sourcing and waste reduction. Initiatives highlighted by the Michelin Guide include: sourcing menu ingredients from local Texas farms and their partner no-till, organically fertilized farm; exclusive use of whole animals and fish; extensive use of vegetable scraps and composting food waste for farm soil; and a bar program featuring house-made vinegars, preserved local cherries, and bitters made from local Texas ingredients.
Bib Gourmand Restaurants: Great Food at Great Value
The Michelin Guide Inspectors also awarded the Bib Gourmand distinction to 44 restaurants across Texas. This designation recognizes establishments that offer exceptionally good food at a moderate price, representing the Michelin Guide’s commitment to highlighting accessible culinary excellence. These restaurants are often considered personal favorites by Michelin Guide inspectors for everyday dining.
Michelin Special Awards Highlight Talent
In addition to Stars and Bib Gourmands, the Michelin Guide presented four Special Awards, recognizing individuals for their exceptional contributions to the dining experience. These awards, part of the Michelin Guide’s expanded recognition, highlight the diverse talents within the Texas culinary scene.
Michelin Guide Hotels in Texas
The Michelin Guide’s selection extends beyond restaurants to include hotels, featuring exceptional places to stay in Texas and worldwide. Each hotel is chosen by Michelin Guide experts for its outstanding style, service, and unique personality, catering to various budgets. The Michelin Guide selection for Texas showcases the state’s most remarkable hotels, such as The Commodore Perry in Austin (two Michelin Keys), Hôtel Swexan in Dallas (one Michelin Key), and Hotel Emma in San Antonio (two Michelin Keys). These hotels, like Michelin Star restaurants, represent the Michelin Guide’s dedication to curating exceptional experiences.
The Michelin Guide’s Expanding Presence in North America
The Michelin Guide‘s first North American edition was launched in New York in 2005. Since then, its presence has grown significantly, now including Chicago, Washington, D.C., California, Florida (Miami/Orlando/Tampa), Toronto, Vancouver, Colorado, Atlanta, Mexico, Texas, and Quebec. This expansion demonstrates the Michelin Guide’s increasing recognition of North America as a global culinary powerhouse.
About the Michelin Guide: A Benchmark in Gastronomy
Globally recognized as a benchmark for culinary excellence, the Michelin Guide offers diners a curated selection of world-class restaurants. The Bib Gourmand, Recommended restaurants, and Special Awards complement the prestigious Michelin Stars, providing a comprehensive guide for travelers and locals seeking outstanding dining experiences. Originally published in France at the turn of the 20th century to encourage car travel, the Michelin Guide has evolved into a leading authority on restaurant and hotel recommendations. Michelin Inspectors maintain the same rigorous and anonymous evaluation process established from the guide’s inception, ensuring consistent and objective assessments based on five criteria: product quality, mastery of cooking techniques, harmony of flavors, the chef’s personality expressed in the cuisine, and consistency. This rigorous process ensures that a Michelin Star holds the same value and meaning worldwide, solidifying the Michelin Guide’s reputation as an international standard in fine dining.
