Favorite Restaurants: Michelin-Starred vs Bib Gourmand

This is a post about our Favorite Restaurants in the world. Some are Michelin-starred, some are Bib Gourmand, and some are just plain good. So, what is Bib Gourmand vs. Michelin-starred? Everyone has heard of Michelin-starred restaurants, but do they know the difference between Bib Gourmand and Michelin-starred?

What is Bib Gourmand vs Michelin-Starred?

We visit fine-dining restaurants a few nights a week when traveling. This can impact our travel budget, but it sure allows us to enjoy some great food. Although there is nothing like going to a Michelin-starred restaurant, we have also found some great restaurants without the hefty price tag. So that is where Bib Gourmand comes in. They are quality restaurants that haven’t gotten a star at a lower price. 

Altogether, Michelin endorsements include three categories: Michelin-starred, Bib Gourmand, and Michelin Plate. Most are familiar with Michelin-starred Restaurants, which are the best and likely quite expensive. Unlike Michelin-starred restaurants, Bib Gourmand includes good restaurants that offer refined cuisine at an affordable price. The Michelin Plate symbol is given to a restaurant that has been recognized for its quality but may still be working towards a star.

Other Alternatives Beyond Bib Gourmand vs Michelin Star?

Not surprisingly, we also find that we can get some great food but keep the cost down, by going to some great food trucks or other alternatives. In Loreto, Mexico, a great Hidden Gem location, we even got to eat in a local’s home.

With this purpose in mind, here is our selection of our very favorite restaurants/food places that we have come across during the last couple of years. Therefore, as we travel more, the list will probably grow, or we might simply replace some of our old favorites. Specifically, the ones that have closed their doors. Surely, time will tell. We have organized the list by location, with the domestic USA restaurants first.

Bib Gourmand vs Michelin Star: Reservations

Getting reservations for practically all the listed restaurants is critical. For that reason, we use the following services to make our reservations: opentable.com, thefork.com, resy.com, yelp.com. For more information about making reservations, please see our Reservations Post.t

USA Favorite Restaurants

Here are some of our favorite restaurants in the United States. Specifically, they are not all Bib Gourmand vs Michelin Star. We specifically recommend the Best Restaurants Kauai and Best Restaurants Orland as two of our favorites:

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Arizona

• Sedona – The Vault Uptown; Chill restaurant with stunning sandstone rock views. The patio is the place to be; it is spectacular.

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California

• Napa – Angele Restaurant & Bar; Located in the historic Hatt building, a unique and inviting interior as well as outdoor waterfront. Even though you would swear you were in the French countryside, instead you’re on the Napa River in an old boathouse.  Great setting, wonderful food and my favorite drink the “Mure Please”. 

• Napa – Auberge du Soleil; Founded in 1981, this is possibly the best view of Napa Valley from on high.  Dinner is oh so French, but the bar terrace is great relaxed dining and, of course, wine tasting. Michelin Star award for 15 consecutive years. 

• Napa – Bistro Jeanty; Chef Philippe Jeanty brings classic French cuisine in a longstanding restaurant to downtown Yountville. As a matter of fact, I especially love the crepes at the end of the meal.

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Florida – Best Restaurants Orlando

Orlando is a mecca for foodies.  Best Restaurants Orlando can be hard to select because there are so many.  However, here are our favorites.

• Orlando – Kabooki Sushi; Outstanding fresh kaiseki style sushi. In fact, both locations in Sandlake and East Colonial are stylish, modern and the sushi is the best.  You can book an Omakase Experience.  Specifically, we especially love to sit at the sushi bar to watch the magic. James Beard nominated chef Henry Moso presides.

• Orlando – Primo; The second of 3 restaurants by James Beard award winner Melissa Kelly. Markedly, strong Italian cuisine; located in the JW in Orlando. Two time James Beard award winning chef Melissa Kelly is the chef/owner. Furthermore, designated a Recommended Restaurant in the inaugural Florida 2022 Michelin Guide. 

• Winter Park – The Ravenous Pig; Stylish gastropub serving new American fare. In short, James Beard-nominated Chefs James and Julie Petrakis serve house-made charcuterie, wonderful comfort food in the surroundings you would expect. Awarded Bib Gourmand and One of Orlando’s 10 Best. 

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Florida – Best Restaurants Jacksonville and Best Restaurants Tampa

• Best Restaurants Jacksonville – Cowford Chophouse; Stylish modern restaurant in a restored 1902 bank building at the major intersection in downtown. Two story restaurant plus an open air rooftop bar, this has something for everyone.  Overall, formal dining upstairs, bar and informal dining downstairs.  Pricey but worth it.

• Ponte Vedra Beach – Caffe Andiamo; Set in a local shopping center in a suburb of Jacksonville at the Beach, this is straight from Salerno Italy. Surprisingly, not Bib Gourmand vs Michelin Star. But, we love it anyway. Our all time favorite local restaurant–great food and wonderful owner and family, a neighborhood meeting place.  If you are a fan of the 1980’s TV show Cheers, this is the “Cheers” Best Restaurant  Jacksonville. Reservations not accepted.

• Best Restaurants Tampa – Bern’s Steak House; Iconic steakhouse. Furthermore, with arguably the single best wine collection in the country. Steak, wine, ambiance, a tour of the kitchen and wine cellar and 48 private booths upstairs for dessert all add up to a highlight visit. Not surprisingly, Bern’s has earned the Highest Wine Spectator Grand Award of Excellence for more than 4 years, and is clearly one of the “Best Restaurants Tampa.”  This is the mural on the entrance to the restaurant. 

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Georgia

• Savannah – Husk-Savannah; Ingredient-driven Southern fare & cocktails served in a landmark mansion with porch seating. Located in the Savannah Historic Landmark District, executive chef Chris Hathcock transforms the essence of Southern food. Also, highlights the unique ingredients of coastal Georgia. Surprisingly, recognized as one of “Best of Florida Winners” by The Guide to Florida. 
• Savannah – The Grey; Occupying a 1928 art deco Greyhound Bus Terminal. Absolutely wonderful experience, from food, drinks to service and ambiance.  Furthermore, the story of this partnership is a fascinating study in race and is the subject of the book co-authored by the owners called Black, White and the Grey. Not to mention, Chef Mashama Bailey won 2 James Beard awards. 

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Best Restaurants Hawaii

• Honolulu – MW Restaurant; Fine dining, top notch place to go.  Undoubtedly our all time favorite, whether for cocktails or full dinner.  Originally on the second floor of a luxury car dealership, the have now moved. Not only is the dinner wonderful, but with the James Beard recognition for Pastry Chef Michelle. Husband/wife team also create food for Hawaiian Airlines. James Beard Semi-finalist Pastry Chef, Michelle Karr-Ueoka. Undoubtedly, one of the Best Restaurants Hawaii.
• Honolulu, Waimea (Big Island), Kapalua (Maui), Poipu (Kauai) – Merrimans; Best Restaurants Hawaii and other Hawaiian Islands. Sophisticated, universally consistent restaurant group, preparing food using locally grown or caught. The food is simply outstanding; the Mai Tais are to die for.  Reservations are a must!  Specifically the Kapalua setting is dreamy. 

• Honolulu, Waimea – Monkeypod Kitchen – Waikiki; located directly on the beach in the Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort, this is clearly the best location of the Monkeypods. Monkeypod, owned by the same group who own Merriman’s, it’s not surprising these are the absolute best Mai Tais ever. This is a more casual version of Merriman’s, but every bit as good.
• Kihei – Wolfgang Puck’s Spago; Located in the Four Seasons, a glamorous ocean front setting, perfect for sunsets. Significantly, Cos and I had our wedding dinner here after eloping.  Undeniably, everything was beyond perfect at one of the Best Restaurants Hawaii, as one expects with the Wolfgang Puck/Four Seasons combination. 

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Louisiana

• New Orleans – Coquette; Locally sourced contemporary Southern cuisine served in a two story building in the Garden District.  Cocktails were great as was the food and service. James Beard Foundation nominee. 
• New Orleans – Galatoire’s; (Jackets required) The unique Friday Lunch at Galatoire’s doesn’t accept reservations; first come/first served. Unless, you have inside contacts. In fact, we hear there are professional line sitters. You must sit downstairs for the full experience of cocktails, champagne, Creole cuisine and dessert; the patrons are the show! Cos and I sat at Jimmy Buffet’s table and watched a crazy band run through the dining room. 

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Maine

• Portland – Fore Street; This rustic spot has a centrally located open wood-fire grill & spit lending smoky flavors to sophisticated Maine farm to table menu. Named in Gourmet Magazine’s Top 50 Restaurants.  Equally important, Chef Sam Hayward named James Beard Best Chef in the Northeast. Also, Semi-finalist for Outstanding Restaurant with James Beard Foundation. Fore Street Restaurant
• Rockland – Primo; At this point, we have been to both the Rockland, Maine and Orlando restaurants.  They are distinct, with the Rockland restaurant sharing their 4.5 acres with their vegetable, fruit, herb, chicken, duck and pig farm behind the restaurant.  Equally fine, Orlando restaurant is located in the JW Marriott, with fresh herb garden on site (see Florida – Orlando Area). Two time James Beard award winning chef Melissa Kelly.

Also, for more information about some of our favorite restaurants in Maine please see 19 Best Restaurants in Mid-Coast Maine.

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Nevada

• Las Vegas, Nevada – Bazaar Meat by Jose Andres; located in Sahara Hotel, the entire focus is on meat. Named one of the 25 best steakhouses in America by the Robb Report. Additionally you can find caviar, fresh sea urchin, veal chops, Iberico pork loins and, of course, amazing beef. Chef Jose Andres James Beard Award winner, Michelin star.
• Las Vegas – Black Sheep; well off the strip on W. Warm Springs Road, recipient of the Eater Award for Restaurant of the Year. Surprisingly, this upscale Vietnamese inspired menu features incredibly unique dishes including salmon skin tacos–delicious! Recipient of the Eater Award for Restaurant of the Year.
• Las Vegas – Bouchon at The Venetian; Thomas Keller’s elevated Las Vegas bistro is a must for brunch whenever we are in Vegas. I love the quiche, a 2 inch tall vegetable delight. Winning awards from Michelin, James Beard etc. Markedly, Anthony Bourdain called this “the best restaurant, ever”. Of course, Thomas Keller is well recognized by Michelin, James Beard, etc. 

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New York

We picked four Bib Gourmand vs Michelin Star restaurants in NYC. In light of the fact that there are over 17,000 restaurants in NYC, 74 are Michelin-starred and 102 are Bib Gourmand, it is fair to say that we are under representation, we will expand the list in 2025 and 2026.

• New York Manhattan – Cafe Carlyle; this high-end cabaret lounge is a true gem, hard to get into, savor every moment of the intimacy of this classic. Most people find Benelmans Bar at the Carlyle Hotel, but few know about this jazz club. Visit both of them for great experiences.
• Flushing – Aces; The finest dining at the US Tennis Open in Arthur Ashe Stadium. Local and seasonal seafood by Michelin Star Chef Ed Brown, sushi by Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto and specialties by Chef Kwame Onwauchi. What more can we say? You must have seats in Arthur Ashe in order to reserve at Aces.
• New York Manhattan – Carvaggio; In the heart of Manhattan’s Upper East Side. This restaurant is related to Sistina and San Pietro. The family comes from Salerno in Southern Italy and it shows in its menu and extensive wine list. Furthermore, this is a stunning restaurant, from the front door and bar to the dining rooms and all the artwork.  Also, we can vouch for Sistina, our second experience with this restaurant family.  One of our favorite Manhattan restaurants. 
• New York City – La Sirene Soho; Intimate, romantic, beautiful small rooms, with painted flowers on the windows, this is very sunny French.  We had the rack of lamb and loved it.  Charming.
• New York City – Sistina; East side highly rated, romantic decor; fresh flowers, candles; even a canvas ceiling. And the food! Called “an Ode to the Amalfi Coast”. Consequently, voted Restaurant of the Year 2002 by New Yorker. Also, Giuseppe Bruno voted Host of the Year by Zagat. See him at the bar in the pictures above.
• Roslyn – Hendrick’s Tavern; An unexpected pleasure, everything worked, from the historic touches, to the dining rooms and especially the food and service. The waiters were enthusiastic about their restaurant and really wanted you to love it too. The steak was as terrific as any we have had in top rated steakhouses; our entire experience was top notch. Who knew this sweet town of Roslyn NY would have this restaurant to boast about?

Also, if you like to eat downtown NYC, please see our post Best Restaurants Near Houston Street-NYC.

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Puerto Rico

• San Juan – Marmalade Restaurant & Wine Bar; Fancy surroundings with lots of velvet, lowlights, wall dividers and a communal table in front of the bar. In particular, you choose between sitting at the bar and watching the action and meeting others or having an intimate meal at a private table.  Surprisingly, with only tasting menus, the bar is still a great choice.  Specifically, the tasting menu is fabulous as you taste a wider array of deliciousness; choose the five course tasting menu; a larger group can have as many as 14 courses. 

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South Carolina

• Charleson – Marbled and Fin, the newest restaurant in the famous Charleston, South Carolina restaurant scene, is perhaps not just the newest but the best. Offering both steaks and fish, the selection of foods and the service is second to none. From the team behind some of the Southeast’s most notable concepts, including Husk, Minero, Delaney Oyster House, and The James, The Neighborhood Dining Group expands its impressive restaurant portfolio with its first-ever steakhouse concept, bringing its signature hospitality to a modern interpretation of classic fine dining. Marbled and Fin may significantly dent your travel budget, but we found it worth the visit.

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Utah

• Park City, Utah – Glitretind Restaurant at Stein Eriksen; this Four Star restaurant halfway up the mountain features an extravagant Sunday brunch, the best in Park City. In addition, the setting reminds me of Tyrolian mountainside. As a result, Best of Award Excellence Wine Spectator. 
• Park City, Utah – Grappa; on the high end of historic Main Street you will find this romantic Italian country farmhouse. Excellent food and service; the absolute best eggplant parmesan ever (except for mine!). Great experience during winter skiing.
• Park City, Utah – Riverhorse on Main; 16-year recipient of Forbes Travel Guide Four Star award. One of the top restaurants in Park City; with an excellent menu, the ambiance is enhanced with live music. 
• Park City, Utah – Shabu; Warm dining room & sake bar with refined Japanese fare. Furthermore, voted Park City’s Best Restaurant, rated #1 by Zagat. Consequently, this is a must do and a favorite on Main in Park City.

For more  information about our favorite restaurants in Park City, Utah, please see our post: Best Brunch in Park City.

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Virginia

• Washington, VA – The Inn at Little Washington; Chef Patrick O’Connell ,referred to as “the Pope of American Cuisine” is genius.  Besides, the place has that perfect combination of elegance and whimsy. A rolling cow named Faira displays cheeses; a 3D replica of the inn is filled with cookies as you leave.  This is the stuff dreams are made of. The accolades are staggering. Michelin three star award; Chef O’Connell Awarded Lifetime Achievement Award from the James Beard Foundation; Recipient of the National Humanities Medal from the President of the United States; Wine Spectator Grand Award for 26 years; Michelin also awarded The Inn a Green Star for sustainability. 

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International Favorite Restaurants:

Here are some of our favorite restaurants outside of the United States. they are not all Bib Gourmand vs Michelin Star.

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Albania

• Tirana – Salt; fine dining, sushi, superb setting. We weren’t expecting the sophistication here, and were delighted with the entire experience. Clearly an indication of things to come as the capital of Albania gears up for world class tourism. Particularly nice change from traditional Albanian cuisine.

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Argentina

• Buenos Aires, Argentina – Parrilla La Brigada; A great San Telmo parrilla restaurant which attracts soccer fans and stars. Chef/owner Hugo Echevarrieta is known for super tender steaks that could be cut with a spoon. It is listed as one of Latin America’s 50 best restaurants. www.labrigada.com.ar
• Buenos Aires – Fogon Asado-Uriarte; eight course menu, all fire-roasted asado-style. Very fun, interactive and a great experience.

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Australia

• Melbourne – Gimlet at Cavendish House; Inspired by the glamour of 20th-century Chicago, Gimlet is the brainchild of Chef Andrew McConnell.  Cocktails are Prohibition-inspired.  The bar is lively and fun. Elegant booths, elegant dining room, elegant bar.  We did not have a reservation, so sat at the bar where we were served as if we did.  Bartender was engaging and offered advice for a quick bite.  Best gimlet ever (of course!).  Great experience. Named #84 World’s 50 Best Restaurants 2022; only Australian venue to make the list. www.gimlet.melbourne
• Melbourne – Tipo 00; Very interesting variations on an Italian theme where we happened to find this during our walkabout in Melbourne.  We fell in love with everything on the menu.  Tipo 00 takes its name from the flour and with good reason.  The presentation is an artform.  This restaurant is booked for weeks ahead as we found out when we tried to follow up our lunch with dinner. www.tipo00.com
• Sydney (Woolahra) – I Maccheroni; Neighborhood Victorian home belies the gorgeous food produced here. We weren’t sure quite what to expect as we walked into the small first floor and then began climbing two flights.  The setting was comfy and we had no idea how great this was going to be.  Superb! Chef Marcello Farioli is Michelin star trained. Italian Restaurant Paddington – I Maccheroni

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Barbados

• Phillip – Le Shack Restaurant and Bar; located close to the Crane resort, this is a gem. Everywhere we looked, we were delighted. The food, cocktails, service, all outstanding. The atmosphere is fun and full of personality

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Brazil

• Rio de Janeiro – Oro Restaurante; Chef Felipe Bronze is one of the most celebrated Brazilian chefs of his generation.  His wife, Cecilia Aldaz, was born in Mendoza and knows her wines.  They are magic.  Make sure you sit at the table overlooking the chef preparations. Two Michelin stars; other accolades include Best contemporary Restaurant, Best Sommelier; in 2016 Chef Bronze won in three categories in the Veja Rio Comer e Beber award: Chef of the Year; Sommelier of the Year. www.ororestaurante.com.br

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Chile

• Vitacura/Santiago – Borago; considered to be one of the top 50 restaurants in the world, this was a truly impressive experience. Things are not what they seem, creativity is off the charts and you will never ever ever forget this restaurant and the evening you had here. Everything is local, included the special water you are served that somehow seems like the best you’ve ever had. Open kitchen; I was lucky enough to walk through and visit the barbecue area where the lamb is splayed on an iron cross. And it was delicious!

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Croatia

• Hvar – Giaxa; self described as “today Giaxa is a recognizable gastronomic place on the island” located in the Jaksa family palace. Any restaurant that proudly lists the Chef (Tomislav Rudan), Head Waiter (Martin Skripac), Pasty Chef (Sidonija Erceg) and Maitre d’hotel (Ivona Rudan) takes pride in every aspect of the experience. It’s true, we loved the suggestions of Martin, the desserts of Sidonija and the food from Tomislav; the tone for the evening was set by Ivona.
• Korcula – Cupido; the location is amazing with spectacular views over the ocean. Excellent in every regard, with seafood as its star. Nice regional cuisine with excellent Croatian wines, especially from the Korcula region.
• Korcula – Pensatore Kitchen; gorgeous presentation, with Croatian influence. Premium location looking over the ocean, yet plenty of foot traffic. Cos had the best anchovies ever.
• Split – Articok; rooftop restaurant in cosmopolitan Split with highly creative dishes and combinations. This surely will be recognized by Michelin before long; surprising it hasn’t been yet. Great experience, setting, service and, of course, food.
• Split – Sug; Dalmatian cuisine, indoor/outdoor eating spaces, located just outside the downtown area. This has a Michelin Bib-Gourmand rating. We found a truly outstanding wine from Croatia here.
• Rovinj – La Puntulina; located literally on the rocks next to waves and boats in the Adriatic Sea, this is an amazing Michelin starred restaurant, our favorite in Croatia. Truffles everywhere, but so is the fresh seafood. Must have dinner here if in Rovinj.

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England

• Greater London – Trullo; Rustic Italian, split level restaurant with neighborhood feel. We ate downstairs; cozy.  This is a little out of the way, but the food was excellent Italian, lovely setting; published their own cookbook, so you can recreate. Bib Gourmand. www.trullorestaurant.com
• Chelsea/London – La Mia Mamma; the genius of Peppe Corsaro who launched a Facebook call for mammas in Italy to come to London to cook for hungry Londoners. It’s a fun experience plus pretty great Italian food. The Chelsea location is a gem, smack dab in the mddle of town.
• London – Bentley’s Oyster Bar and Grill; home to Mayfair’s best restaurant, serving extraordinary seafood and British and Irish cuisine in an outdoor/indoor setting. Selfdescribed as purveyors of the finest oysters, champagne and seafood since 1916 which we would echo.

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France

• Paris – Apricus; A Paris favourite in a beautiful setting behind the Champs-Elysees.  It boasts a lush garden that is extremely pleasing to the eye. We were here for lunch on 9/11/2022.  It was a glorious day, just perfect to sit in this garden setting.  We enjoyed every single bit of it, from the wine service, to the food and to the impeccable service.  A highlight in Paris for sure. Michelin starred Chef Mathieu Pacaud. www.restaurant-apicius.com
• Paris – Benoit; Casseroles, snails & desserts in a venerable bistro. This is a classic…everything you want in a French restaurant…a Michelin star, 100 years old and located in the center of the city. BISTROT (bistrot916.com)
• Paris – Maison Edgar; Anthony Bourdain said if he only ate at one restaurant in Paris, this would be it. We had to try it. Of course, he was right. Loved this place

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Greece

• Mykonos – Katrin Mykonos Restaurant; this is a really great experience, from hospitality, elegant setting, to Greek recipies with French gourmet flair. Admitedly very expensive, it is worth every Euro. Although we did draw the line at 150 Euros for the sole. Instead we split a perfectly presented steak dinner for two and loved every single bit of it. When in Mykonos, you must go here.
• Athens – Point A (AcropolisPoint); Stunning view of the Acropolis, you are about to have a sophisticated and elegant experience. Drinks are wonderful, dinners are traditional Greek influenced and the ambiance is just what you would expect. Excellent view of the Acropolis Museum as well.
• Athens – Oikeio; Greek bistrot with Michelin Bib Gourmand accolades for several years. This is really great food, reasonable in price (even the Greek Orthodox priest eats here) and quite stylish to book. While outside seating is in demand, we loved being inside and all the ambiance you could want.
• Pireas/Athens – Varoulko Athens; with one Michelin star, you expect great service, food, ambiance. Yes, you get it all, with heavy emphasis on fish and seafood. Lovely view of the harbor, we’d go back again.

Italy

• Capri – Da Paolino; Lemons, lemons, lemons…over your head, on your table, lemons everywhere. A Giada favorite and the darling of those who are famous.  Likewise, the setting is a garden courtyard; the food is wonderful Italy, think Caprese salad, seafood, and pasta. See above for the picture. www.paolinocapri.com
• Monterosso Al Mare – Restaurant Hotel Porto Roca; Gorgeous view of the Ligurian Sea and hillsides.  Tough hill to walk, but worth it. This is the restaurant in our hotel, so walking to dinner was not a problem!  The setting is fantastic, but so is the food.  Fresh, Italian, seafood; local wines, great desserts.  Wonderful. Hotel Porto Roca, 4-star hotel with restaurant in Monterosso al Mare
• Panzano – Antica Macelleria Cecchini; Dario Cecchini, Italy’s most famous butcher, is the owner of this unique steak house restaurant and butcher shop in Chianti. Surprisingly, Chef/Butcher Dario Cecchini wanted to be a veterinarian.  Life had another plan.  He has now become famous in part because of Chef’s Table.  The food keeps on coming from the open fire in the dining room.  And it is spectacular, from the meat (of course) to the incredible vegetables to the olive oil cake of which he gives you the recipe.  We quickly became best friends with all at our long table, sharing excellent Chianti and passing plates. See picture above of him and Robin. dario cecchini – macelleria con cucine

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Mexico

Check out all ten of our favorite romantic Cabo restaurants here.

• Cabo San Lucas – Cocina Del Mar Restaurant; Located within Esperanza Resort, this is set on cliffs with crashing waves below.   The bar is stunning, but the view from the tables are even more so. Cocina Del Mar Restaurant at Esperanza Resort & Spa (aubergeresorts.com)
• Cabo San Lucas – Sunset Mona Lisa; When Cos and I walked to our table at our first visit, we were astounded.  Everything about that gorgeous setting was beyond what you could imagine.  Pair that with the music at sunset and you almost forget to order your meal.  That would be a mistake, because both food and cocktails are excellent.  The second time we went here, we found the jazz club. This time the menu was a little more relaxed and we were treated to a very good jazz performance. One of the best fine dining in Los Cabos | Sunset Monalisa
• Cabo San Lucas – The Rooftop at The Cape a Thompson Hotel; Sweeping views to downtown, El Arco and beyond, this is a stunner.  Once you become accustomed to the setting, you order great drinks and small plates.  www.hyatt.com/thompson-hotels/cslth-the-cape
• San Jose del Cabo – Nido; A stunning restaurant located in the Uber stylish Viceroy. Even if you ate nothing, it is a treat for your eyes, to see the spectacular architecture of this hotel and restaurant.  Add to that, truly outstanding sushi served in the beautiful “nest”.  Expensive, yes.  But worth it. Nido Los Cabos Restaurant | Viceroy Los Cabos (viceroyhotelsandresorts.com)
• San Jose del Cabo – Semillon; Finding it is hard; you will wonder at the fantasy setting. Then you add service and food, the smell of the burning mesquite and you have a beyond memorable experience. Pureto (puertoraiz.com)

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New Zealand

• Queenstown – Rata Restaurant; Southern dining in New Zealand is quite different from Southern US cooking!  Some of the best producers and growers locally.  Otago wines are highlighted. The dining room features a wall photo of a native forest, giving you a sense of wilderness while being in downtown Queenstown.  The food and service are excellent with great suggestions from the server.  We loved the lamb and the wine was outstanding. Michelin starred Chez Josh Emett. Rata Dining Queenstown

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Slovenia

• Kobarid – Hsia Franco; Self taught Slovenian chef Ana Ros is considered to be one of the top 50 chefs in the world, was named the best female chef of 2017, as well as an Ambassador of the United Nations World Tourism Organisation for Gastronomy Tourism. With Hsia Franco’s two Michelin stars, many travel to Kobarid just to experience the amazing food, wine and pastoral setting at this destination restaurant. The experience is simply amazing, from a starting cocktail in the pasture, through every last bite of the multi-course meal, expertly paired with Slovinian wines. If you wish, and you do, you may stay in one of the simple yet lovely rooms. Ros recently announced the opening of a new restaurant in a Croatian Coastal resort. More to come! Hiša Franko (hisafranko.com)

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St. Barthelemy

• Baie de Saint Jean – Sand Bar-Eden Rock; One of the truly iconic St. Barths restaurants, the Sand is located on the beach of the Bay de St. Jean. Indeed, this laid-back glamour, with a few celebrities in residence is one of the most sought after reservations.  Sand Bar’s lunch menu offers a choice of exotic salads, homemade whole wheat pizzas and fantastically fresh local seafood.  Surely this is a dream. Not to mention, Celebrity Chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten is of New York fame. Eden Rock St Barths | Luxury Hotel Saint Barths Caribbean (oetkercollection.com)

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Thailand

• Phuket – Blue Elephant Phuket; Located in an antique governor’s house, this is a great specimen of Sino-Portugese architecture. Authentic Royal Thai Food is presented in one of several individual rooms.  In addition to the restaurant, Blue Elephant offers cooking classes, something I was tempted to take.  What better way to learn Thai food than to cook it? Michelin Plate. Blue Elephant | Your Thai Culinary Ambassador since 1980a

Conclusion

We hope you learned to explore the different types of Michelin rated restaurants and will visit some of them on your travels.  Also, if you want to learn more about fine wines, please visit our post: Best Wine Regions of the World. Travel smarter, dine better and explore deeper: We’d love to share our handpicked insights and exclusive guides in our monthly newsletter below.