Though Michelin expanded its guide from San Francisco to encompass all of California, San Francisco is still the only region with any three-starred restaurants. This year, there are seven restaurants with that distinction, down from eight with Saison’s new two-star status.
Three stars, in Michelin parlance, means "exceptional cuisine, worth a special journey." The Bay Area restaurants maintaining that accolade are Atelier Crenn, Benu, The Restaurant at Meadowood, Manresa, Quince, Single Thread, and The French Laundry.
Two stars, by contrast, indicates "exceptional cuisine, worth a detour." San Francisco’s Campton Place has earned a second star this year, joining the ranks of Acquerello, Baumé, Commis, Californios and Lazy Bear.
One star signifies "a very good restaurant in its category." This year’s entrants to that category were San Francisco’s Angler and Sorrel, Sacramento’s Kitchen Restaurant, Auberine in Monterey, Maum in Palo Alto, and Harbor House in Mendocino.
For all Michelin-starred restaurants and their locations, just consult this handy map.
Note: Restaurants are listed from three stars to one star.
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