For a destination with so much to offer, it may come as a surprise that Michelin only produced its first state-wide guide to California in 2019. While the state's restaurant industry was hit hard by the years that followed, it's now back with a bang and more creative, ambitious and flavourful than ever!
Michelin has just released its new California guide for 2023 and we are delighted to see the destinations we work with achieving such prestigious cultural recognition. Food is more than just sustenance. An unforgettable meal in a breathtaking location is a lifelong memory and we're thrilled to let you know about the gastronomic treats our clients have to offer.
Sonoma County
The destination is typically famous for wine-tasting, with over 425 wineries and entire holidays built around the pursuit. However, it is also one of the pioneers of farm-to-table cuisine: an attractive proposition for the increasing number of visitors seeking sustainable dining choices. It currently has three Michelin starred restaurants and a flourishing culinary scene.
SingleThread is in the heart of Healdsburg, just steps from its eponymous 24-acre farm which yields 70% of the produce in the kitchen. Japanese influenced in both service (think flawless hospitality) and menu (modern kaiseki with an abundance of small, expertly-crafted plates), diners are immersed in the sustainable living dream. Boasting a maximum three Michelin star rating, this is worth the trip to Sonoma County alone.
Cyrus is a treat for anyone who values a restaurant’s atmosphere as much as the food itself. Like attending an intimate, private dinner party (if you're lucky enough to be friends with a Michelin starred chef), diners partake in an immersive experience, from canapés and champagne in the lounge to expertly crafted small plates in the kitchen building to the main event in the luxurious dining room.
Credit: Cyrus Restaurant
Barndiva also specialises in sustainable dining centered around local produce and the reinvention of familiar favourites. They specialise as a destination for European-style dining and parties with their rustic barn, bucolic surroundings and world-renowned head chef.
Credit: Barndiva Restaurant / Chad Surmick
The county's Bib Gourmands, celebrating great value at mid-range restaurants, include Valley, El Molino, FolkTable, Glen Ellen Star and Stockhome.
Monterey County
Does anything embody "holiday" more than dining by the coast, a gentle ocean breeze tousling one's hair after a magical day of whale watching? Already renowned for its breathtaking scenery and thriving arts scene, Monterey County now boasts two restaurants with one Michelin star each - the perfect complement to the region's other luxuries.
Aubergine is set within the L'Auberge Hotel and run by renowned Chef Justin Cogley (below) who now also runs the restaurant at the recently opened Carmel Beach Hotel. The culinary creations are playful and artistic with superior steaks and seafood headlining the eclectic menu and an expertly curated accompanying wine list.
Credit: Aubergine Carmel
Not only did Aubergine retain the star it was first awarded in 2019, there was also individual recognition for John Haffey, who was celebrated as the Sommelier Award winner for 2023. According to the Monterey County Convention & Visitors Bureau "Haffey joined Aubergine in 2018 after polishing his palate at local wineries throughout Carmel Valley, including Folktale Winery, and is a Certified Sommelier and French Wine Scholar."
Chez Noir is one of only six new One Star restaurants for 2023. Husband and wife team Johnny and Monique Black both have plenty of high-end pedigree from their experience in Michelin starred restaurants in the Bay Area. However, their new venture has a more homely feel - literally - as guests are invited to enjoy a tasting menu of French food, made with the best Californian seafood, at the couple’s own Carmel home.
Credit Chez Noir & Joseph Weaver
The County also has one new Bib Gourmand by the way of Maligne – a coastal hotspot specialising in a fusion of European and American dining and famous for using carefully curated, local ingredients to elevate well-known dishes. It accompanies previous Bib Gourmand winner, Greek homestyle cooking favourite Yafa.
Oceanside
The Mexican influence is strong in the region due to its proximity to the border so it’s only fitting that this cuisine would give Oceanside its first star for Valle. Situated within the Mission Pacific Hotel, Valle is one of only 7 Mexican restaurants in the US to be afforded the coveted Michelin star status, and the first of its kind in San Diego County.
Credit: Valle Restaurant Oceanside
Guests can enjoy an eight-course tasting menu overlooking Oceanside Pier or a unique chef’s table experience in the kitchen alongside unpretentious and welcoming hospitality.
A Bib Gourmand was also awarded to Balinese restaurant, Dija Mara. Diners should not let the unassuming hole-in-the-wall vibes detract from the ambitious and authentic cooking within. It’s the perfect fuel after a day in the surf.
Huge congratulations to all the new Michelin stars and Bib Gourmands, and to each of our destination clients for continuing the Golden State's tradition of culinary excellence!
Read the Michelin Guide's full list of 2023 California stars here -