New Orleans Restaurants Earn Michelin Stars and More Awards
New Orleans has made headlines with its recent Michelin Guide accolades. Three local restaurants have been awarded Michelin Stars, marking a significant achievement for the city’s culinary community. The noteworthy recognition comes as part of the inaugural Michelin Guide for the American South, which covers Louisiana and surrounding states.
Michelin Star Winners in New Orleans
This year, three restaurants in New Orleans received Michelin Stars:
- Emeril’s Restaurant – 2 Stars
- Saint-Germain – 1 Star
- Zasu – 1 Star
Emeril’s received a prestigious two-star rating, signaling “excellent cooking, worth a detour.” The restaurant is led by chef E.J. Lagasse, who redefined the dining experience with a refined tasting menu that showcases Louisiana flavors.
Emeril’s Restaurant
Established in 1990 by the celebrity chef Emeril Lagasse, Emeril’s has evolved significantly under the guidance of E.J. Lagasse in 2023. The restaurant recently transitioned to an elegant tasting menu concept, which highlights the rich culinary traditions of Louisiana.
Saint-Germain and Zasu
Saint-Germain, a wine bar and bistro on St. Claude Avenue, is recognized for its creative 10-course tasting menu. Co-chefs Trey Smith and Blake Aguillard began this venture in 2018, setting high standards for culinary innovation.
Meanwhile, Zasu stands out as an intimate dining destination in Mid-City. Chef Sue Zemanick, known for her previous acclaim at Gautreau’s, opened the restaurant on New Year’s Eve in 2018. Zasu offers a menu that marries local ingredients with French techniques, emphasizing a diverse array of seafood dishes.
Notable Michelin Recognitions in New Orleans
In addition to the starred restaurants, several establishments received recognition at different levels, including the Bib Gourmand designation, which acknowledges restaurants offering value for money.
Bib Gourmand Restaurants
New Orleans boasts 11 Bib Gourmand restaurants, such as:
- Acamaya
- Cochon
- Dooky Chase’s Restaurant
- Mister Mao
- Parkway Bakery & Tavern
Michelin Recommended Restaurants
The city also has 18 Michelin recommended restaurants, showcasing a variety of culinary styles, including:
- Galatoire’s
- Herbsaint
- Pêche Seafood Grill
- Saba
- Turkey and the Wolf
Impact of Michelin Guide on New Orleans
The Michelin Guide’s new coverage extends beyond New Orleans to include a total of 228 restaurants across six states, including Louisiana, Alabama, and South Carolina. A total of 19 restaurants in the American South received star ratings, contributing to heightened awareness and interest in regional dining traditions.
This recognition serves as a significant moment for New Orleans, a city renowned for its vibrant food culture. As the culinary scene continues to evolve, these achievements are likely to ignite discussions about local dining standards and future aspirations within the community.
