The 5 Three-Michelin-Star Restaurants in NYC
How each has maintained its own unique flair and legendary celebrity chef
The highest honor a restaurant can achieve is being awarded three-Michelin-stars Receiving this distinction means that your restaurant serves “exceptional cuisine, worth a special journey.”
These yearly awards are based on anonymous reviews that take into account the quality of the ingredients, the harmony of flavours, the mastery of techniques, the personality of the chef as expressed in their cuisine, and consistency both over time and across the menu.
As you can imagine, receiving this delegation is extremely difficult. Even in New York City, one of the food capitals of the world, you might be surprised to learn that there are only 5 three-Michelin-star restaurants. Each one has its own distinct flavor and legendary celebrity chef.
In this post, we’ll name them and describe their unique features.
Who are the three-Michelin-star restaurants in NYC?
The 5 three-Michelin-star restaurants in New York City are as follows:
Eleven Madison Park
Located along the infamous Madison Avenue, Eleven Madison Park is led by Chef Daniel Humm. It serves elegant American tasting food and features a high-ceilinged Art Deco space. Guests are regaled with 8-10 courses known for their creative simplicity, and a meal costs $315 per person.
Chef’s Table at Brooklyn Fare
While the name suggests that Chef's Table is located in Brooklyn, it is actually now in Manhattan. Led by Chef César Ramirez and inspired by Japanese and French cuisine, this restaurant is known for its intimate feel and small size (only 18 seats). The theme of the meal is a seafood focus, with guests tasting 15-20 courses, in addition to its famous wine collection. A meal here costs $394.36 per person.
Le Bernardin
Opened in Paris in 1972, this now midtown Manhattan staple has received a three-Michelin-star distinction for over 10 straight years. Led by Chef Eric Ripert, Le Bernardin is also renowned for its seafood and expansive wine collection. The menu is split into three categories: almost raw, barely touched, and lightly cooked. Lunch and dinner are priced at $90 and $160 respectively.
Masa
Located in the bustling Columbus Circle area of midtown Manhattan, Masa is led by Chef Masayoshi Takayama and is famous for its Japanese cuisine. Also known for its intimate feel, only 26 diners are allowed in at one time and its windowless space creates a unique ambience. A meal here costs $595 per person.
Per Se
Also located in Columbus Circle, Per Se is led by Chef Thomas Keller and is known for its New American/French cuisine. In contrast to the windowless environment at Masa, Per Se offers stunning views of Central Park, in addition to two 9-course options (tasting of seasonable vegetables or a chef’s tasting menu), both of which change daily & seasonally and are priced at $340.
There you have it, the 5 three-Michelin-star restaurants in New York City. Obviously, achieving this distinction allows these restaurants to charge a premium for their dining experience.
As you might imagine, it can be very difficult to secure reservations at these highly sought-after restaurants. Make sure to book well in advance if you’re planning a trip to New York City and hope to make a stop or two at these luxurious establishments along the way.
