New Orleans Restaurants Earn Michelin Stars and Accolades | Where NOLA Eats
New Orleans has made a significant mark in the culinary world by earning Michelin Stars. Recently, three local restaurants were recognized by the prestigious Michelin Guide, resulting in excitement among the city’s chefs and food enthusiasts.
New Orleans Restaurants Earn Michelin Stars
This year, the Michelin Guide revealed the stars awarded to restaurants in the American South, including those from Louisiana. Three New Orleans establishments received Michelin Stars: Emeril’s Restaurant, which earned two stars, and Saint-Germain and Zasu, both of which received one star. This marks a historic occasion for New Orleans and the southern culinary scene.
Emeril’s Restaurant: A Culinary Landmark
Emeril’s Restaurant, a well-known establishment in downtown New Orleans, stands out with its two-star rating. This distinction puts it in the elite company of only 35 restaurants nationwide with a prestigious two-star rating. The restaurant has undergone a transformation led by E.J. Lagasse, the son of famed chef Emeril Lagasse, shifting towards an elegant tasting menu that showcases Louisiana’s culinary heritage.
The Michelin inspectors praised the restaurant for its vibrant flavors and refined cooking techniques.
Saint-Germain and Zasu Join the Ranks
Saint-Germain, a cozy restaurant located in Bywater, has become known for its innovative 10-course tasting menu. Co-chefs Trey Smith and Blake Aguillard have crafted a unique culinary experience that highlights creative techniques such as fermentation.
Zasu, a hidden gem in Mid-City, offers an upscale dining experience that features a menu inspired by local flavors blended with French culinary techniques. Chef Sue Zemanick, renowned for her previous work at Gautreau’s and her appearance on “Top Chef,” has built a loyal following over her years at Zasu.
Michelin Recognition Beyond the Stars
In addition to the starred restaurants, several others received recognition. New Orleans boasts 11 Bib Gourmand establishments celebrated for delivering exceptional value and quality. These include:
- Acamaya (modern Mexican)
- Cochon (modern Cajun)
- Parkway Bakery & Tavern (po-boys)
- Dooky Chase’s Restaurant (Creole)
- Turkey and the Wolf (sandwiches)
Furthermore, 18 other restaurants received recommendations from Michelin, showcasing a diverse array of cuisines across various price ranges.
The Culinary Landscape of the American South
The latest Michelin Guide for the American South covers a six-state region, including Louisiana and the Gulf Coast. The guide includes a total of 228 restaurants, with 19 awarded stars and five recognized for environmental sustainability through Michelin’s Green Star award.
Emeril’s unique two-star achievement emphasizes New Orleans’ rising culinary prestige. This development is expected to spark conversations about other notable restaurants that were overlooked, including those operated by the well-known Brennan family.
With New Orleans now firmly planted on the Michelin map, the city’s rich culinary traditions continue to flourish, promising an exciting future for both diners and chefs in the area.
