Austin, Texas, just made history by taking the top spot in the state for Michelin stars. This year, seven Austin restaurants earned the prestigious Michelin star distinction, setting the city apart as Texas’s premier culinary destination. While other major cities in Texas like Dallas, San Antonio, and Houston also earned recognition, Austin stands out with the highest number of Michelin-starred restaurants in the state. Dallas and San Antonio each celebrated one Michelin star, Houston claimed six, but Austin came out on top with seven. Here’s a closer look at Austin’s Michelin winners and what makes them special.
The diverse culinary landscape in Austin reflects the city’s eclectic culture and its commitment to culinary innovation. Each Michelin-starred restaurant here brings something unique to the table, from refined barbecue to carefully crafted omakase. Let’s dive into the seven Austin restaurants that received Michelin stars and explore what makes each of them a standout.
1. Barley Swine
Founded by Chef Bryce Gilmore, Barley Swine is an innovative, farm-to-table restaurant that’s been a cornerstone of Austin’s culinary scene. Known for its commitment to local ingredients and creative dishes, Barley Swine has also earned accolades as an Eater Award-winning restaurant. Gilmore’s seasonal tasting menus highlight the best of Texas produce, making each visit a unique experience. The restaurant’s inventive approach to food and sustainability played a big role in earning its Michelin star, and it continues to be a favorite for those who want to experience the essence of Texas flavors with a modern twist.
2. Craft Omakase
For lovers of Japanese cuisine, Craft Omakase is a must-visit. This intimate omakase-style restaurant takes diners on a culinary journey through a series of meticulously crafted sushi dishes, showcasing both traditional and contemporary techniques. Each course is carefully curated to highlight the purity and elegance of fresh fish, flown in daily from Japan. Craft Omakase’s Michelin star is a testament to its dedication to quality and authenticity, making it one of the best spots for sushi in Texas.
3. Hestia
Named after the Greek goddess of the hearth, Hestia focuses on live-fire cooking, giving diners an experience that’s both primal and refined. This unique restaurant, led by Chef Kevin Fink and his team, specializes in dishes cooked over an open flame, infusing every bite with smoky, charred flavors. The menu includes everything from seafood to vegetables and meats, all prepared with expert precision. The combination of fire-kissed flavors and sophisticated techniques earned Hestia its Michelin star, and it’s become a standout for anyone interested in live-fire cuisine.
4. Olamaie
A modern take on Southern cuisine, Olamaie is another Eater Award-winning restaurant in Austin that has captured the hearts of locals and visitors alike. Known for its warm ambiance and outstanding hospitality, Olamaie serves up dishes rooted in Southern tradition but with a modern twist. From the famous buttermilk biscuits to seasonal specialties, every plate is crafted with care and authenticity. The Michelin star here is well-deserved, as Olamaie continues to elevate Southern cuisine while honoring its heritage.
5. Interstellar BBQ
Austin’s barbecue scene is legendary, and Interstellar BBQ is a shining example of why Texas is known for its smoked meats. Earning a Michelin star in the highly competitive world of Texas barbecue is no small feat. Interstellar BBQ’s menu features expertly smoked meats, from brisket to ribs, that draw in barbecue lovers from far and wide. Known for its creative approach and unique flavors, Interstellar BBQ delivers on taste, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the best of Texas barbecue.
6. La Barbecue
Another barbecue gem in Austin, La Barbecue has made a name for itself with its perfectly smoked brisket, sausage, and ribs. La Barbecue’s pitmasters use time-honored techniques to deliver bold, robust flavors in every bite. With long lines and rave reviews, it’s clear that La Barbecue has won the hearts of locals and tourists alike. The Michelin star solidifies its status as one of the top barbecue spots not just in Austin, but in Texas.
7. LeRoy & Lewis Barbecue
Rounding out Austin’s Michelin-starred barbecue trio is LeRoy & Lewis Barbecue, an Eater Award-winning restaurant known for its innovative take on classic barbecue. While it serves traditional cuts like brisket and ribs, LeRoy & Lewis also offer creative items like beef cheeks and smoked sausage with seasonal ingredients. This willingness to push boundaries while respecting the traditions of Texas barbecue earned it a Michelin star, and it’s a must-try for barbecue enthusiasts who want something a little different.
These seven Michelin stars are a testament to Austin’s growth as a culinary hotspot. With a blend of diverse influences, innovative techniques, and an appreciation for local ingredients, these restaurants represent the best of what Austin has to offer. From world-class sushi to live-fire cooking and elevated Southern cuisine, there’s something for every palate in the city’s Michelin-starred lineup.
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Ready to explore Austin’s real estate options? Contact Brendan Sanford today at (512) 696-0673 or email him at [email protected] to find your ideal home in this incredible city, where world-class dining is just around the corner.