Many of these establishments embrace the season by showcasing these prized ingredients—alongside premium caviar, another top-tier delicacy—in their carefully curated seasonal tasting menus.

Building on our 2024 study of the most expensive cities and countries to dine at a Michelin-starred restaurant, our team analyzed prices from 3,500+ Michelin-starred establishments to rank those offering the highest-priced full tasting menus.

For this ranking, we focused on the most expensive regular or seasonal menus, excluding one-time celebratory meals such as those offered for Christmas or New Year’s.

Beverages are generally not included in the price, though a small number of restaurants do include them. The same is true for tips and other government charges (service charge, VAT). Prices reported are in USD and rounded for simplicity (daily variations may occur due to currency exchange rates).

1. Ginza Kitafuku, Tokyo, Japan ($2,130 USD)

Top-priced tasting menu: Echizen Crab Kiwami Course (¥330,000)

If you want to experience a meal worthy of royals, then head to Ginza Kitafuku in Tokyo for their seasonal Echizen crab “Kiwami” course. Priced at 330,000 Yen per person (service charge not included) this is the world’s most expensive Michelin-starred meal.

Echizen crab is a type of snow crab that is exclusively caught off the coast of Echizen, a region in Fukui Prefecture, Japan, north of Kyoto. This crab is highly prized for its sweet and tender meat, and it has earned the distinction of being presented to the Japanese imperial family as a symbol of its quality and rarity.

Over the past decade or so, a new and even higher prized Echizen crab has popped up in Japan’s markets. It’s called Kiwami, and the crustaceans need to meet very strict criteria for weight (they must be over 1.5 kg), carapace width (14.5 cm), and claws wider than 3 cm. Only a tiny number of crabs earn this prestigious labeling: in 2021 for example, only 67 snow crabs, or 0.04 percent of the total catch, were certified as Kiwami crabs.

A single Kiwami crab typically costs between 70,000 and 80,000 Yen (roughly $500 USD), but some Kiwami crabs have sold for more than 800,000 Yen ($7000 USD). Given the crazy-high market prices for Kiwami crabs, Ginza Kitafuku’s Kiwami course almost looks like a great bargain.

2. Ultraviolet by Paul Pairet, Shanghai, China ($1,230)

Top-priced tasting menu: UV Royale (RMB 8888)

Three-starred Ultraviolet by Paul Pairet offers a captivating fusion of gastronomy and cutting-edge visual technology, theatrical, multi-sensory dining experience featuring meticulously crafted dishes that blend French techniques with global influences.

The immersive environment uses synchronized visuals, music, and aromas tailored to each course, creating a one-of-a-kind culinary journey. The premium UV Royale course is priced at RMB 8888 ($1230 USD), and while we haven’t yet had the pleasure of trying it, everyone seems to full heartedly agree that it’s worth every penny. Did we mention that champagne, wine and cocktail pairings are included in the price?

3. Caviar Russe, New York, USA ($975 USD)

Top-priced tasting menu: Grand Tasting Menu—A Tour of Caviar Russe ($975 USD)

If you’re a caviar connoisseur with a budget for an indulgent dining experience, look no further than New York’s Caviar Russe. Its Grand Tasting Menu, priced at $975 (excluding tax and gratuity), is the most expensive Michelin-starred meal in the United States.

Featuring 11 courses of exquisite caviar-centric dishes, the experience has been described by Forbes as an over-the-top odyssey, and it’s guaranteed to leave you impressed with its luxurious flavors and artistry.

4. Masa, New York, USA ($950 USD)

Top-priced tasting menu: Hinoki Counter Experience ($950 USD)

Masa, New York’s premier Japanese restaurant and a three-Michelin-starred gem, is synonymous with elite, ultra-expensive dining. Ranked as the third most expensive Michelin restaurant in the world in 2022, it was the first in America to break the $1,000 mark for a Michelin meal (when you include service charge and gratuity).

So, is it worth it? According to the Michelin Guide, there’s nothing quite like experiencing an omakase under Chef Masa Takayama’s care. With fragrant truffles, Ossetra caviar, and vibrant garnishes, the menu balances luxury with artistry.

5. Azabu Kadowaki, Tokyo, Japan ($935 USD)

Top-priced tasting menu: Seasonal Omakase Course including Matsuba Crab (¥145,200)

In addition to Echizen, Matsuba crabs are among the most highly prized snow crabs harvested in Japanese waters. They take center stage in the premium seasonal omakase course at the three-Michelin-starred Azabu Kadowaki, priced at 145,000 Yen ($935 USD).

Complementing the luxurious crab are dishes like black truffle and white fish sashimi, white truffle rice, and sea urchin caviar somen noodles, creating an impeccable and indulgent dining experience.

6. Quince, San Francisco, USA ($795 USD)

Top-priced tasting menu: 21st Annual White Truffle Dinner ($795)

For roughly six weeks from mid-November to late December, Quince, a three-Michelin-starred gem in San Francisco, offers an exquisite white-truffle-focused tasting menu.

Priced at $795, it holds the title of the most expensive Michelin-starred meal on the West Coast. Helmed by celebrated chef Michael Tusk, the truffle-centric dishes reflect both luxury and innovation, making this menu a bucket-list experience for white truffle lovers.

7. Alchemist, Copenhagen, Denmark ($760 USD)

Top-priced tasting menu: Alchemist Experience (5400 DKK)

Copenhagen’s Alchemist provides an unparalleled dining journey, seamlessly combining gastronomy with art, theater, and scientific innovation. This two-Michelin-starred establishment is widely regarded as one of the most iconic dining destinations globally.

At a price of 5,400 DKK (approximately $760 USD), it is the most expensive Michelin-starred meal in Europe. Chef Rasmus Munk pushes the boundaries of culinary creativity, with each dish designed to provoke thought and stimulate all senses. The restaurant’s immersive setting and conceptual storytelling make it a once-in-a-lifetime dining adventure.

8. Sazenka, Tokyo, Japan ($745 USD)

Top-priced tasting menu: Special course of carefully selected ingredients and Shanghai crab (¥115,500)

One of Asia’s premier dining destinations, the three-Michelin-starred Sazenka masterfully blends Chinese culinary techniques with the elegance and philosophy of Japanese cuisine. From mid-October to mid-January, the restaurant features a Shanghai crab-centric course, a seasonal delicacy highly prized for its rich flavor and luxurious appeal.

Priced at 115,000 Yen (approximately $740 USD), this exclusive menu highlights the restaurant’s dedication to showcasing the best seasonal ingredients, providing an unforgettable experience that perfectly balances tradition and innovation.

9. Guy Savoy, Paris, France ($715 USD)

Top-priced tasting menu: Colours, Textures & Flavours (€680)

La Liste’s 5-time consecutive winner of the world’s best restaurant crown, Guy Savoy restaurant in Paris is renowned for its sophisticated French haute cuisine. It is also France’s most expensive restaurant. Helmed by celebrated chef Guy Savoy, the restaurant offers an intimate, luxurious dining experience where artistry and flavors converge.

10. Ginza Fukuju, Tokyo, Japan ($685 USD)

Top-priced tasting menu: Special course using luxurious seasonal ingredients (¥106,480)

We’re starting and ending the top 10 with a Tokyo restaurant. Ginza Fukuju, situated in Tokyo’s prestigious Ginza district, is a two-Michelin-starred restaurant renowned for its refined kaiseki-style dining.

Featuring luxurious seasonal ingredients prepared with meticulous attention to detail, the restaurant offers an exclusive omakase menu priced at 106,480 Yen (approximately $720 USD), highlighting the artistry and delicate flavors of traditional Japanese cuisine.

11. Hōseki, Dubai, U.A.E. ($680 USD)

Top-priced tasting menu: Ruri (2,500 AED)

Just outside the top 10, Hōseki, located in Dubai, offers an exceptional dining experience with its exclusive “Ruri” tasting menu, priced at AED 2,500. This menu features a selection of seven appetizers, including sashimi and seasonal dishes, a premium sushi offering, miso soup, Japanese fruit, and a Japanese omelet. The menu reflects the highest level of craftsmanship and luxury, emphasizing the best of traditional Japanese cuisine in an intimate, refined setting.

The Priciest Michelin-starred Restaurants in Each Country

The world’s 15 most expensive Michelin-starred restaurants are concentrated in a select few countries, but what about the rest of the 30+ countries and territories covered by the Michelin Guide?

In the affordability rankings, Lithuania stands out, newly added to the Michelin Guide, with its priciest meal costing just 95 euros (about $100 USD)—less than a tea course at the costliest restaurants worldwide. Other nations like the Czech Republic, Malaysia, Croatia, Malta, and Brazil also offer Michelin-starred dining at surprisingly accessible prices, showcasing diverse, high-quality cuisines without breaking the bank.

Methodology

Our team researched the menus of 3,500 Michelin-starred restaurants (one, two, and three stars) in all countries and territories covered by the guide, finding pricing data for over 90% of the listed restaurants. The research was conducted between November 1st and November 20th, 2024.

For this ranking, we focused on the most expensive regular and seasonal tasting menus, excluding one-time celebratory meals like those offered for Christmas or New Year's. Prices are per person and generally exclude service charges, VAT, or gratuity. Wine and cocktail pairings are included at a few restaurants.

Prices were rounded for simplicity (e.g., 2,138 was rounded to 2,140; 672 was rounded to 670). Daily and weekly price variations may occur due to fluctuations in currency exchange rates.

Featured photo taken at Ginza Kitafuku courtesy of @mermaidkumi.

The post The Priciest Michelin-starred Restaurants of 2024 appeared first on Chef's Pencil.

So popular is pizza in the U.S. that it is legitimate to ask whether pizza has now become more popular outside of its country of origin? But more than that; just how good is it?

To find out, our team turned to two trusted sources of data: Google Trends and 50 Top Pizza, an international pizza guide and magazine based in Italy which has provided local and international pizzeria rankings since 2017.

Philadelphia Outranks Naples as the Most Pizza-Obsessed City in the World

Google Trends data provides a geographic breakdown of the countries and cities with the highest percentage of pizza-related Google searches relative to all local searches. It offers insights into how often people think about pizza compared to any other topic.

Pizza-related searches include everything from finding the best local pizza, searching for well-known pizzerias or pizza chains such as Domino’s, to pizza sauces, toppings, recipes, and pizza ovens.

Of all cities in the world, the people of Philadelphia – along with tourists visiting the city – made the most pizza-related searches over the past five years, compared to all their other local searches. Naples, Italy, the birthplace of pizza, comes in a (very) close second, with Turin ranking third worldwide.

Philadelphia has a large Italian American community (the second largest in the U.S.), particularly concentrated in South Philly, for whom pizza has been a staple for generations. This community has preserved authentic Italian recipes, and many of the city’s oldest and most respected pizzerias were founded by Italian immigrants, for example, Marra’s and La Scala’s Birra.

Columbus, OH and Boston, MA

Columbus, Ohio, surprisingly ranks fourth in the world, ahead of Rome, Chicago and Milan. Known for its very own Columbus-style pizza, a unique square-cut, thin-crust pizza, the city’s pizza culture is strong and diverse.

Boston, shares fifth spot with Rome, Italy’s capital. We’d expect Rome to rank pretty high: It’s widely regarded as a true Italian pizza paradise and the birthplace of its namesake, Roman pizza. Boston, however, is better known for seafood, baked beans and cream pie. Nonetheless, Boston has a passion for pizza due to its vibrant Italian-American neighborhoods, especially in the North End, which boasts some of the oldest pizzerias in the country. It also seems to be becoming something of a pizza hotspot, with numerous rankings placing Boston and Massachusetts high on America’s pizza lover map.

Copenhagen: A Pizza Outlier

Copenhagen, Denmark, ranks eighth globally and is the only city in the top ten that doesn’t lie in either the U.S. or Italy. The city’s rise as a pizza hotspot is testament to its dynamic food culture, representing one of the most amazing culinary transformations in recent decades (e.g. Copenhagen is home to some of the best fine-dining restaurants in the world). The Danish capital has embraced pizza culture, blending tradition with culinary creativity, making it a surprising yet deserving pizza destination.

Country Rankings – Italy tops the list, followed by Denmark, Canada and the U.S.

A few non-Italian cities may boast an enthusiasm for pizza, but when it comes to country rankings, Italy is the clear winner. The love and passion for pizza runs deep in this country and is more evenly and wider spread geographically than anywhere else. This is no surprise for anyone who has visited Italy as they’ll have found a pizzeria pretty much anywhere.

Denmark ranks a surprising second worldwide and is the only country outside the U.S. and Italy with a city in the top 10 worldwide.

Cities with the Highest Number of World-Class Pizzerias

New York made headlines earlier this year when the Italian pizzeria guide 50 Top Pizza ranked its Una Pizza Napoletana the best pizzeria in the world. It is the first time a pizzeria outside of Italy has been recognized as the world’s best.

But does New York really have the best pizza in the world? Our team analyzed the past three years of top 100 pizza places in the world, as ranked by the Italian pizzeria guide, to find the cities with the highest number of distinct pizzerias.

Our results show that not only does New York have the best pizzeria of 2024, but it also boasts the highest number of pizza places ranked among the world’s best.

New York has the largest Italian-American community in North America, with over 2.6 million Italians living in the greater New York metro area. It was in New York that Italian immigrants opened the first pizzeria in 1905, leading to the creation of the famous New York-style pizza, the most popular pizza style sold in the city and many other places on the East Coast.

In a surprise development, Rome and Naples share second place for top-ranked pizza places with Tokyo, Japan’s capital, a city with no Italian ancestry, something we look at a little later.

Chicago, Portland (Oregon) and San Francisco Among America’s Best Cities for Pizza

50 Top Pizza has also published regional pizzeria rankings for the past five years. One of these regional rankings showcases the best 50 pizzerias in the United States and North America (the North American-centric guide which also included Canada was published only once in 2019).

As expected, given New York’s top global ranking, the city also dominates the national rankings of cities with the most top-rated pizzerias. A full 34 New York pizzerias feature among America’s (or North America’s) best 50 over the past five years (2019 through 2024, with a gap year in 2020).

Chicago, another pizza powerhouse, ranks second with 11 pizzerias recognized as among America’s best over the past five years. The city is the birthplace of three distinct pizza types—deep-dish, stuffed, and tavern-style—which are often collectively referred to as Chicago-style pizza, though the recipes are quite different. In the city’s renowned pizzerias, you’ll find an impressive variety of styles, from traditional Neapolitan and Roman pizzas to New Haven-style and, of course, Chicago’s iconic deep-dish.

Portland, OR, shares bronze medal with San Francisco for America’s best city for pizza. Portland has recently featured prominently in many top cities for pizza rankings, sometimes even outranking New York and Chicago, creating a little controversy. While the city doesn’t beat Chicago or New York in the eyes of the Italian guide 50 Top Pizza, its status on other rankings does validate Portland’s reputation as one of America’s top destinations for pizza excellence.

San Francisco may not have the historical pizza legacy of New York or Chicago, but it’s a foodie paradise with no shortage of fantastic pizza places. San Francisco’s Tony’s Pizza Napoletana was recently ranked as the sixth best pizza place in the world.

New Haven, CT, ties for fifth place with Miami, FL. While New Haven locals may not love being outranked by cities like Portland or San Francisco—places without New Haven’s long-standing pizza tradition—Connecticut’s city can take pride in having the highest number of outstanding pizzerias per capita in the U.S.

London and Paris – Cities with the Highest Number of Outstanding Pizzerias in Europe (Outside of Italy)

It’s rare to see London surpass Paris in food rankings, but when it comes to the best pizzerias in Europe (outside of Italy), the British capital takes the lead. According to the Italian guide 50 Top Pizza, which has been publishing annual rankings for the best pizzerias in Europe for the past six years, London boasts 16 entries, two more than second-ranked Paris and significantly more than third-ranked Madrid and Copenhagen.

Additionally, London’s Napoli on the Road was awarded the title Best Pizzeria in Europe in 2024 and ranked fifth worldwide.

Is Tokyo a Better Destination for Pizza Connoisseurs than Milan, Florence or Chicago?

One of the most surprising insights of our analysis was Tokyo’s rank among the cities with the highest number of outstanding pizza places. Over the past few years, Tokyo has had six pizzerias listed among the world’s 50 best, on a par with Naples and Rome and more than Milan, Florence or Chicago.

Tokyo’s pizzerias not only made it onto the world’s best 50 list, but some were featured prominently among the very top – The Pizza Bar on 38^th ranked third worldwide in 2024. So how did Tokyo become a global pizza hotspot?

For one, Tokyo is a huge city with a population higher than the combined population of Rome, Milan, Florence, Naples and Chicago. It’s home to more pizzerias than Naples, the birthplace of pizza, but quantity does not always imply quality and nor does Tokyo have the Italian immigrants or long tradition of pizza baking found in some American cities.

According to Matt Goulding, co-founder of Roads and Kingdom, a food and travel magazine, it is simply a discovered passion for Italian food and the Japanese obsession for perfection and that has made Japanese pizza makers some of the best in the world.

Many chefs in Tokyo have studied in Italy, bringing back authentic methods for making Neapolitan pizza, which they blend with Japan’s high standards for ingredients and preparation. Tokyo’s pizzerias often focus on using top-quality ingredients, such as locally-sourced produce and high-grade Italian imports, creating a unique fusion of Japanese and Italian culinary traditions.

Methodology

Our report is based on two sources of data: Google Trends and the pizzeria rankings published by Italian pizza guide 50 Top Pizza.

We’ve analyzed Google Trends data for the past five years from September 15th, 2019 to September 15th, 2024 to identify the countries and cities where the topic of pizza was most popular. Google Trends data provides a geographic breakdown of the countries and cities with the highest percentage of pizza-related Google searches, relative to all local searches. It offers insights into how often people think about pizza compared to any other topic.

Pizza-related searches include everything from finding the best local pizza, searching for well-known pizzerias or pizza chains such as Domino’s, to pizza sauces, toppings, recipes, and pizza ovens.

The rankings for cities with the highest number of top-rated pizzerias were based on reports published by the Italian pizza guide, 50 Top Pizza. Only distinct pizzerias were counted (i.e., those that appeared in the guide multiple times were counted once), and multiple locations of pizzerias from the same chain or owner were also counted only once.

The post Philly: The World’s Most Pizza-Obsessed City, While New York Serves the Best appeared first on Chef's Pencil.

Some cultures eat longer and later than others, so to give you a round-up of where you are more likely to be served a late meal, we have delved into reservation apps to find the cities where booking a very late dinner is easiest. We analyzed the dinner reservation calendars of over 4,400 restaurants in 89 cities worldwide, noting the last seating times for each restaurant at weekends. We then ranked these cities based on the median value of the last seating time, or last food order time.

We looked at all types of restaurants and checked their reservation apps to identify seating times 2-3 weeks in advance. (Please refer to our methodology section below for more information.)

Our rankings highlight the cities where you’re most likely to secure a late dinner reservation.

Cities in the Middle East and South Asia Top the Rankings

Madrid is famous worldwide for its vibrant dining scene and nightlife, with late dining deeply ingrained in the local culture. However, the Spanish capital is beaten by several cities in India and the Middle East for late dinner options.

In Cairo, Egypt’s capital, booking a dinner well past midnight is a breeze. The average last seating time is midnight, making Cairo the world’s capital of late dining. So, if you need one more reason to visit the pyramids or explore the new and fabulous Grand Egyptian Museum, now you have it.

Across the Red Sea, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia’s top financial and commercial center, is another haven for late dinners. The average last seating time here is 11:30 pm, ranking it second worldwide.

Famous for its many holy sites, proximity to Mecca, beautiful beaches, and plentiful museums, Jeddah’s numerous restaurants and cafes remain open late into the night, particularly in popular areas like such as Corniche, Al-Balad, and Tahlia Street.

Tied in second place with Jeddah are two Indian megacities: New Delhi and Mumbai. In New Delhi, it’s common for people to have dinner between 20:30 to 22:00, but many restaurants, especially those in popular areas such as Connaught Place, Hauz Khas, and South Delhi, stay open much later, sometimes until midnight or even beyond. The late-night food culture is evident in the growing number of eateries and street food vendors who cater to those looking for a meal after a night out.

Mumbai, known for its lively nightlife, has an even stronger late dining culture. Many Mumbaikars dine between 21:00 and 23:00, and several restaurants, particularly in areas such as Colaba, Bandra, and Lower Parel, stay open until midnight or later. For last seating times, our research found no differences between New Delhi and Mumbai.

Late-night dining is also very popular in other top Middle Eastern destinations such as Dubai, Doha, and Muscat, Oman’s capital. The average last seating time in all three cities at weekends is 23:00, ranking them fifth worldwide.

These cities have embraced late-night culture, with many restaurants staying open well into the night, attracting locals and expatriates who prefer to dine late.

Only now do we come to Madrid, although still in a respectable fifth place worldwide. The last seating time in Madrid’s restaurants is on average at 23:00, the latest in Europe – though this accolade is shared with the Greek capital, Athens.

Three Latin American cities – Mexico City, Buenos Aires, and Montevideo – are also famous for late dining and thriving nightlife. On average, the last seating time in these three cities is 23:00, some staying open late some shutting up shop a little earlier.

Argentina’s capital city is world-famous for its vibrant nightlife and that energy needs feeding. Dinner service ranges from around 20:00 to after midnight. Uruguayans are late eaters too at the weekends and as late as 23:00, though mid-week they are a little more reserved, typically dining at 21:30.

Northern Africa has another top entry in our ranking, this time with Marrakesh, the charming Moroccan city. Its vibrant medina and lively streets come alive in the evenings, and numerous restaurants offer visitors a taste of Moroccan cuisine late into the night, well after 11:00 pm.

Europe Spotlight

For those of you spending some time in Europe, the rule of thumb for finding late dining is to head south. The highest ranked European cities, Madrid, Barcelona, Rome, Athens and Lisbon, are all on or in the proximity of the Mediterranean.

As we have already seen, Madrid is the top European city for late dining and shares this attribute with Athens. The average last seating time in both cities is 11:00 pm.

The Balkans and the Eastern Mediterranean are also a safe bet for a late diner with Istanbul, Bucharest, Zagreb, Belgrade and Limassol ranking high on our list. Paris, Brussels, and Milan rank also highly among European cities.

We conclude with Luxembourg, the European city where restaurants, on average, end their service the earliest at 8:45 PM.

Americas Spotlight

Mexico City, Buenos Aires and Montevideo are the late dinner capitals of the Americas. Argentina’s capital city as well as Mexico City are world-famous for their vibrant nightlife with dinner service ranging from around 8:00 pm until after midnight, while Uruguayans typically go out for dinner at 9.30 pm mid-week and as late as 11:00 pm on weekends.

Not far behind are Miami and Las Vegas, where the average last seating time is 22:30 – later than in cities such as New York, Los Angeles, or Chicago. Miami stands out as an outlier in the U.S., with local dinner times typically later than the national average. The city's restaurant industry, which caters largely to international visitors, keeps many establishments busy until midnight.

While it might be expected that Las Vegas, with its tourism, gambling and entertainment-driven economy, would rank high in late dining, the city not only surpasses most of its national counterparts. It also outpaces Macau, Asia's gambling capital.

The last city in the Americas, the city that appears to like sleeping early, is San Francisco. The average last seating time is 9:00  pm for the city, substantially lower than its American peers.

The Cities Where Late Dinners Are Less Common

While some cities embrace late-night dining, others are rather more reserved, preferring a more respectable closing up time with restaurant service typically ending between 21:00 and 22:00, and the last seating or food orders taken is usually half an hour to an hour before closing.

Auckland, New Zealand’s largest city, has the earliest restaurant closing times in the world, according to our research. The average last seating in Auckland’s many restaurants is 20:30. Dinner in New Zealand is typically served between 5:30 and 7:00 pm, which is early compared to many other countries where 5:30 pm might still be considered late lunch. If 8:30 pm sounds early, some Kiwi Redditors complain that it’s even worse outside Auckland. They’re likely correct, as restaurants in large cities tend to stay open longer than those in smaller towns.

Luxembourg City, and its suburbs, can also be counted among the sleepiest cities in the world, at least in terms of dining hours. On average, the last seating is at 8:45 pm in Luxembourg, making it the second earliest closing time in our research.

The Baltic trio of capitals – Vilnius, Riga, and Tallinn – as well as neighboring Helsinki, also observe early dinner times. The median last seating time in these cities is around 21:00.

Surprisingly, some of Asia’s largest cities – Tokyo and Seoul – also score low on this scale. While it’s not impossible to dine out late in Tokyo and Seoul (Tokyo alone has 137,000 restaurants and plenty of them cater to the late-night crowd), the average restaurant closes by 9:30 or 10:00 pm, with the last seating around 9:00 pm.

The same goes for Australia’s culinary hotspots – Sydney and Melbourne – where the last seating is typically around 9:00 pm, quite early for a global city.

Additional Visuals

The Downside of Late Dinners

Working in a restaurant is mentally, physically, and emotionally demanding, and burnout is common. Because of the long working hours and unable to take weekends of work (in many cases), finding a work-life balance is hard for many restaurant employees.

This is especially true for employees with families and for women, many of whom struggle to reconcile their work with expectations at home. This challenge is one of the main reasons why so few women advance to executive positions in the industry.

Earlier this year, Spain’s Minister of Labour, Yolanda Díaz, sparked controversy by suggesting that restaurants in Spain should no longer remain open late into the night. She described the custom of keeping restaurants open until 1:00 am as “madness.”

However, her remarks were met with immediate criticism from many quarters, including Madrid’s regional president. She argued that “Spain has the best nightlife in the world, with streets full of life and freedom,” which provides employment for many, and that the central government’s approach would leave people “bored and at home.”

Methodology

Our team has researched booking calendars for over 4,400 restaurants in 89 cities worldwide and identified the last seating (or last food order) at weekends for each of these restaurants.

We then ranked these cities based on the median value of the last seating time, or last food order time.

We looked at all types of restaurants and relied heavily on reservation apps to identify seating times, completing the search for dates 2-3 weeks in advance for Fridays and double-checked for Saturdays (no cuisine or pricing criteria was used to filter restaurants). We used reservation apps such as opentable.com, resy.com, thefork.com, bookingham.ro, sevenrooms.com, openrice.com, tableapp.com, catchtable.com, and many more.

For cities that are not covered by these websites or apps, we relied on the restaurant’s own reservation systems. In some cities where online reservations are less common, the results might be skewed towards marketing-savvy restaurants and international chains.

Fair Use and Redistribution

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The post The World’s Late Night Dining Capitals: The Cities Where Booking a Late Night Meal is Easiest appeared first on Chef's Pencil.

Over 15 million visitors are expected to flock to Paris for the Summer Games. While the spotlight is on the world’s athletes, it would be a pity to miss out on the exquisite Parisian culture and cuisine that define the French capital.

To experience the best of Paris, head to one of its famous Michelin restaurants. Paris boasts the second highest number of Michelin restaurants in the world so there are plenty of amazing restaurants to choose from. However, dining at a Parisian Michelin restaurant can be pricey; our recent study found Paris among the most expensive cities globally for fine dining, with an average Michelin meal costing €210.

It costs on average €210 to dine out at a Michelin restaurant in Paris.

But don’t worry—you can still find hidden gems in Paris that offer a sensational Michelin dining experience at a more affordable price. Our team has researched the most affordable Michelin lunch and dinner options in Paris during the Summer Olympics. For this reason, we only included restaurants where reservations are still available for the next couple of weeks.

Surprisingly, some of the most affordable Parisian Michelin restaurants are closed during the Olympics, and others have introduced higher-priced Olympic menus. Nevertheless, several restaurants offer reasonably priced lunch menus below €60 per person, typically as a prix fixe menu with two or three courses.

If you’re one of the 15 million visitors to Paris, bookmark this list and make a reservation as soon as possible.

1. Benoit: €32-€42

Address: 20 Rue Saint-Martin, 75004 Paris (near Tour Saint-Jacques)

Benoit, a traditional bistro with over 100 years of history, is part of the Alain Ducasse family of restaurants and a cherished spot for both locals and visitors seeking an authentic Parisian bistro experience. Situated at 20 Rue Saint-Martin, near the Town Hall, this historic bistro offers a quintessential Parisian dining experience with classic French dishes prepared meticulously.

Benoit is the most affordable Michelin restaurant in Paris with the lunch menu priced between €32 (two courses) and €42 for a full three-course meal.

2. Quinsou: €40-€58

Address: 33 Rue de l’Abbé Grégoire, 75006 Paris

Situated just across École Grégoire-Ferrandi, the famous French culinary school, Quinsou is a contemporary restaurant in Paris, helmed by Chef Antonin Bonnet. Known for its inventive, yet unpretentious take on artisanal cuisine and focus on seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients, Quinsou is a fantastic choice for a Parisian lunch.

For lunch, you can opt between a two-course menu priced at €40 and the three-course meal priced at €58.

3. Auguste: €47

Address: 54 Rue de Bourgogne, 75007 Paris (near Musée Rodin)

Chef Gaël Orieux’s restaurant, Auguste, is celebrated for its inventive take on traditional French cuisine. Known for providing a dining experience that is both refined and adventurous, Auguste highlights the finest seasonal ingredients in innovative ways, reflecting Orieux’s experience with culinary legends like Paul Bocuse and Alain Ducasse.

Established in 2004, Auguste takes inspiration from the legendary Auguste Escoffier’s Culinary Guide. Located in a historic neighborhood near the Rodin Museum and the dome of the Invalides, the restaurant embodies the timeless elegance of old Paris.

The restaurant’s popular lunch menu, priced at €47, consists of a three-course meal and highlights seasonal ingredients and a blend of classic and contemporary techniques.

Besides the three restaurants highlighted above, there are nine other Michelin restaurants where lunch is priced around 50 euros. Check out the map above for more details.

Affordable Michelin Dinner Choices in Paris During the Summer Olympics

If you’re looking to dine out at a Michelin restaurant in Paris during the Olympic Games, there are a few affordable yet still excellent options where the prix fixe or tasting menu is well below the city’s €210 per person average.

1. Fleur de Pavé: Starting at $75

Address: 5 Rue Paul Lelong, 75002 Paris (near Jardin du Palais Royal)

Situated in the heart of Paris, Fleur de Pavé provides a delightful dining experience crafted by Chef Sylvain Sendra. The restaurant features an inventive fusion of French, Mediterranean, Asian, and South American influences, utilizing the finest seasonal ingredients from local markets. Chef Sendra’s passion for travel and cuisine shines through in his dishes, which are inspired by his visits to Peru and Japan, beautifully balancing textures and flavors.

The €75 four-course dinner menu provides great value, featuring a curated selection that highlight the best of modern fine dining. Note that this option is not available on weekends, so plan your visit accordingly. However, the weekend 6-course tasting menu, priced at €130, is still very affordable compared to other Michelin-starred restaurants in Paris.

2. Tomy & Co: €80

Address: 22 Rue Surcouf, 75007 Paris (near Hôtel des Invalides)

Tomy & Co, owned by Chef Tomy Gousset, is a contemporary Michelin-starred restaurant located near Les Invalides. Chef Gousset, known for his dynamic approach to French cuisine, combines classic techniques with modern flair. Guests can expect some unique dishes such as fried gnocchi with truffles and wine sauce, roasted sea bream with zucchini flowers and candied tomatoes, or the dark chocolate ganache with caramel ice cream.

The restaurant features a highly affordable Summer Olympics special menu, with a three-course meal priced at 80 euros. Traveling with kids? No problem—there’s also a budget-friendly children’s menu available for 28 euros.

3. Jacques Faussat: €80+

Address: 54 Rue Cardinet, 75017 Paris

Jacques Faussat, situated in a charming corner of Paris, is where Chef Jacques Faussat showcases his mastery of traditional French cuisine with a modern twist. Each dish is fresh with the seasons and flavored with spices Chef Faussat collected during his travels. From the succulent meats to the delicate French desserts, every course is a celebration of French culinary excellence.

Dinners can opt between an affordable three-course meal priced at 80 euros or the four-course discovery menu priced at 110 euros.

Auguste, Baieta, and FIEF are three more excellent choices where you can enjoy a Michelin-starred dinner without breaking the bank.

Related: Most Expensive Michelin Restaurants in Paris

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1. Le Jardinier | $58 per person

Address: 610 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10022

Le Jardinier offers the most affordable prix fixe Michelin lunch meal in New York. The Executive Lunch package, priced at $58 per person, includes a two-course meal.

The restaurant provides a refined dining experience focused on fresh, seasonal ingredients and contemporary French cuisine. For lunch, you can enjoy dishes such as heirloom tomato gazpacho or veggie and sumac lavash, grilled Montauk bass with summer squash and lemongrass emulsion, or the vegetarian-friendly Carolina gold risotto with charred corn and grilled broccoli.

4. Le Pavilion | $78

Address: One Vanderbilt Ave, New York, NY 10017

Le Pavillon in NYC offers a sophisticated dining experience, blending French culinary traditions with modern techniques. Located in the heart of Manhattan, this elegant restaurant features a seasonally inspired menu curated by renowned chef Daniel Boulud.

The two-course prix fixe lunch is priced at $78, while the three-course prix fixe costs $95. The menu is diverse, offering a variety of seafood choices such as red prawn salad Basquaise, octopus a la plancha, seared scallops, roasted monkfish, and baked Black Atlantic bass.

5. Family Meal at Blue Hill | $85 (Sunday Lunch only)

Address: 75 Washington Pl, New York, NY 10011

Blue Hill in NYC is a celebrated farm-to-table restaurant known for its innovative approach to seasonal and sustainable cuisine. Located in Greenwich Village, Blue Hill offers a unique dining experience with a focus on locally sourced ingredients, many of which come from the restaurant’s own farm. The elegant and intimate setting, combined with Chef Dan Barber’s creative and thoughtful dishes, makes Blue Hill a standout destination for those seeking a memorable and eco-conscious culinary adventure.

Lunch is served solely on Sundays, between 11:30am-2:30pm, at Blue Hill in NYC. It’s a three-course menu priced at $85.

1. Oxomoco | $65 per person

Address: 128 Greenpoint Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11222

Mexican restaurant Oxomoco, helmed by Chef Justin Bazdarich, instantly evokes the feel of a vacation resort. The menu combines traditional Mexican recipes with modern interpretations, offering a sensory delight that keeps you coming back for more.

The tacos at Oxomoco are to die for and you can choose between four different tacos recipe (grilled asparagus, soft shell crab, lamb barbacoa and swordfish) priced between $23 and $31. Be sure to sample their extensive selection of tequila and mezcal cocktails.

Affordable three-course meal suggestion: you can combine, for instance, shrimp ceviche tostada, lamb barbacoa tacos, and chips and salsa for $66 per person. 

5. Cote NYC | $74

Address: 16 W 22nd St, New York, NY 10010

Cote NYC, a Michelin-starred Korean steakhouse, combines the bold flavors of Korean barbecue with the refined techniques of an American steakhouse. Led by Chef David Shim, Cote offers a unique dining experience with its signature Butcher’s Feast, featuring an array of premium cuts and traditional Korean accompaniments.

For $74 you can enjoy four selected premium cuts with Korean accompaniments. If you’re a Korean steak fan this is the place to be!

7. Crown Shy | $76

Address: 70 Pine St Ground Floor, New York, NY 10005

Crown Shy, located in the iconic 70 Pine Street building in the hear of the Financial District, is a stylish and contemporary restaurant that offers an elevated dining experience. Helmed by Chef James Kent, it features a menu of inventive New American cuisine with global influences. Known for its exceptional service and striking interiors, Crown Shy is perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions.

8. Estela | $87

Address: 47 E Houston St 1st floor, New York, NY 10012

Led by Chef Ignacio Mattos, Estela combines Mediterranean influences with contemporary American cuisine. It’s well known for the wide array of delicious, shareable plates that change regularly which are a must for large groups.

Affordable three-course meal suggestion: Beef tartare with elderberries and sunchoke; Fried arroz negro, squid, and romesco and Ricotta dumplings with mushrooms and pecorino Sardo. Price: $97.

10. Red Paper Clip | $110

Address: 120 Christopher Street, New York, NY 10014

Despite a humble exterior and simple décor, Red Paper Clip serves up exemplary modern cuisine with roots in chef and owner Kevin Chen’s Taiwanese heritage. Tables are reserved for the full tasting menu, but you can order a la carte at the bar to get an affordable sampling of the restaurant’s best dishes.  

The tasting menu is priced at $110 making it one of the most affordable Michelin tasting menus in NYC.

Related: Michelin Lunches Under 50 Euros in Paris
Related: Cities and Countries with the Highest Number of Michelin Restaurants per Capita

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The Michelin Guide is also ‘on the move,’ with the addition of new restaurants and a geographic expansion now covering over 40 countries and territories. So, what are the current cities and countries with the highest number of Michelin restaurants per capita?

Kyoto, Paris and Washington D.C. top the global city rankings

Donostia-San Sebastián, the beautiful Basque city in northern Spain, is often mistakenly labeled the city with the most Michelin restaurants per capita (sometimes the second highest ranking city) based on information from a decade-old study. While San Sebastián is indeed a fantastic global fine-dining destination and home to two three-starred Michelin restaurants, which is remarkable for a city of roughly 160,000, it doesn’t rank among the very top cities in this category.

Note that for these rankings, we’ve taken into account restaurants in cities with populations of 500,000 or more, located within city limits and not in the larger metropolitan area. This approach differs from other studies as well as the Michelin Guide website, which often includes restaurants from the broader metropolitan region when searching for restaurants in a city. We have also observed numerous instances where per capita statistics are incorrectly calculated by using metropolitan restaurant data in conjunction with city population statistics.

While Tokyo is the city with the most Michelin restaurants in the world and Osaka is often regarded as Japan’s culinary capital, it is Kyoto, Japan’s cultural capital, that holds the title for the highest number of Michelin restaurants per capita in the world.

There are 100 Michelin restaurants in Kyoto, including five three-starred restaurants, for a population of roughly 1.4 million—the highest concentration on the planet! With 122 Michelin restaurants for a population of 2.1 million, Paris ranks 2nd worldwide for both the highest absolute number of Michelin restaurants and the highest concentration of Michelin restaurants.

Washington D.C. emerges as the most unexpected highlight of this report. Unlike its well-known peers—New York, San Francisco, and Chicago—the American capital less frequently appears among global fine-dining destinations, yet it proves to be a formidable contender.

Antwerp, the 2nd largest city in Belgium, known worldwide for its diamond industry, is another surprising entry ranking 4th worldwide and 2nd in Europe. The Belgian city is home to 17 Michelin restaurants and is one of the most affordable cities in Europe in which to enjoy a Michelin-starred meal.

Coming in 5th and 6th are Osaka and Lyon, renowned as the culinary capitals of their nations. Lyon is renowned for its rich gastronomic heritage, which includes a high concentration of top-rated restaurants, traditional bouchons, and celebrated chefs such as Paul Bocuse, the father of modern French cuisine.

The 2nd American city in the top 10, San Francisco (and the larger Bay Area), has long been among the world’s top fine-dining destinations. San Francisco has also the 2nd highest number of Michelin restaurants in the Americas, after New York.

If you needed one more reason to visit Lisbon, here it is. Lisbon, Portugal’s uber-trendy capital, ranks 8th globally and 3rd in Europe for the highest concentration of Michelin restaurants, above heavyweights Copenhagen, Barcelona and Milan. Lisbon is home to 14 Michelin restaurants, including two with two of the coveted Michelin stars.

Dutch cuisine may not be renowned for its fine-dining appeal, but the Netherlands, with its 121 Michelin restaurants and its capital city Amsterdam, are a hotbed for Michelin-starred restaurants. Amsterdam ranks 9th worldwide and 4th in Europe for the highest density of Michelin-starred restaurants.

What is more, dining out at one of Amsterdam’s Michelin restaurants is quite a bargain compared to other European cities. The median tasting menu price is €158, substantially less than Paris, Munich and even Lisbon.

The small, but wealthy, Macao ranks 10th worldwide and 3rd in Asia. The world’s gambling heaven is home to 16 Michelin restaurants, including two three-starred Michelin restaurants—Robuchon au Dôme and Jade Garden.

Please find the full list below:

Mid-sized Cities with the Highest Concentration of Michelin Restaurants

While most Michelin restaurants tend to be clustered in large cities, some mid-sized cities with populations between 100,000 and 500,000 are punching above their weight in the fine-dining scene. However, none of these mid-sized cities can match Kyoto and Paris for their high density of Michelin restaurants.

Country Rankings: Switzerland retakes first place; Luxembourg, Belgium rank 2nd and 3rd

While France continues to be the country with the highest number of Michelin restaurants in the world, it is the Swiss who have the most Michelin restaurants per capita. Switzerland has long used this fact to promote itself as one of the top fine-dining destinations in the world, being home to 134 Michelin restaurants, including four three-starred establishments.

The small but wealthy Duchy of Luxembourg comes in 2nd, only just missing first place. Luxembourg has outranked Switzerland for the past few years, but while both countries saw a steady number of Michelin restaurants and experienced fast population growth—Switzerland to a record 8,960,800 at the end of 2023 and Luxembourg to a record high of 672,050 at the beginning of 2024—Luxembourg's population grew just that bit faster. And fast population growth doesn't work in your favor when it comes to per capita stats.

Malta and Belgium come in 3rd and 4th, and besides boasting a high number of Michelin restaurants per capita, both countries offer some of the most affordable fine-dining venues in Europe. Our Michelin pricing analysis, published in April 2024, shows that the median tasting menu costs €125 in Malta (lowest in Europe and 3rd lowest worldwide) and €135 in Belgium (4th lowest in Europe).

Asian culinary powerhouse Hong Kong SAR ranks 5th worldwide (and 1st outside Europe), with 79 Michelin restaurants, that is roughly one Michelin restaurant for every 95,000 of its citizens.

Note: For many countries listed in the Michelin Guide, geographic coverage is limited to a few regions or metropolitan areas. This is true for some of the largest countries covered by the guide such as Brazil, the United States, China, and Japan, but also for smaller ones such as Greece.

In a report published three years ago, we calculated the density of Michelin stars solely based on the population of the regions or cities covered by the Michelin Guide. However, this led to confusion among many of our readers. We therefore decided to base our report on the entire population of a country, even though the geographic coverage of the Michelin Guide is limited.

Moreover, we have not included in our country rankings micro-states and territories such as Monaco, Andorra, and Macao.

Please find below the full list.

Methodology

The data was researched from the Michelin Guide's official website in May and June 2024. We've ranked cities based on the number of Michelin restaurants located within city limits. Restaurants located in the larger metropolitan area of their respective city were not included in the stats. We've used Wikipedia as the source for the population stats (population stats ranged between 2020 and 2023).

Related: Exploring Michelin Dining Costs Across 40 Countries

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Michelin-starred Lunches in Paris for Under 50 Euros

Lunch is generally more affordable than dinner, so if you’re looking for a Michelin-starred meal without breaking the bank, this is your safest bet. Paris is no exception; in fact, French Michelin-starred restaurants are well known for offering lunch set menus, dubbed ‘menu déjeuner,’ priced more reasonably.

Currently, there are nine Michelin restaurants in Paris offering a set lunch menu below 50 euros. But make sure to book ahead as it will be surely tough to find a seat during the Olympics.

1. Benoit: €32

Address: 20 Rue Saint-Martin, 75004 Paris (near Tour Saint-Jacques)

More than 100 years old, Benoit is a traditional bistro that is part of the Alain Ducasse family of restaurants. Located at 20 Rue Saint-Martin, just a stone’s throw from the Town Hall, this historic bistro brings you a quintessential Parisian dining experience, complete with classic French dishes prepared with the utmost care. Chef Fabienne Eymard leads the kitchen, offering traditional favorites such as escargot, coq au vin, and crème brûlée​.

The warm atmosphere of Benoit, combined with its excellent service, makes it a beloved spot for both locals and visitors seeking an authentic Parisian bistro experience. The lunch menu, priced at just €32, offers an affordable way to taste high-quality French cuisine in a cosy setting. Three options are available for lunch: starter/main course, main course/dessert, and starter/main course/dessert.

2. Le Sergent Recruteur: €42

Address: 20 Rue Saint-Martin, 75004 Paris (Ile Saint-Louis)

With a modern twist on classic French cuisine, Le Sergent Recruteur emphasises sustainability and local sourcing under the leadership of Chef Antonin Bonnet. The menu showcases a variety of fresh produce, meats, and fish, all prepared with simplicity and flavour in mind​. Chef Bonnet’s commitment to sustainability makes Le Sergent Recruteur a standout choice for conscientious diners​.

Priced at €42, the lunch menu provides an affordable way to experience the best of seasonal French cuisine. Available from Wednesday to Friday, this menu consists of either a starter and a main course, or a main course and a dessert. 

The restaurant has a rustic charm with chic décor, offering a cosy ambiance. Its glassed-off kitchen lets diners observe the chefs, adding an engaging atmosphere.

3. Ze Kitchen Galerie: €43

Address: 4 Rue des Grands Augustins, 75006 Paris (near Sainte-Chapelle)

Ze Kitchen Galerie, found at 4 Rue des Grands Augustins, is the creation of Chef William Ledeuil. This restaurant stands out for its innovative blend of French and Asian influences, using hints of ginger, galangal, or wasabi, to create a unique culinary experience.  

The lunch menu at Ze Kitchen Galerie is a reflection of Ledeuil’s inventive approach, featuring dishes that are as visually appealing as they are delicious​. The menu, priced at €43, gives you the opportunity to try Ledeuil’s cutting-edge culinary creations. The modern and artistic ambiance of the restaurant complements the vibrant cuisine, making it a favourite among food enthusiasts. 

4. Qui Plume la Lune: €45

Address: 50 Rue Amelot, 75011 Paris (near Place des Vosges)

Qui Plume la Lune is a hidden gem in the Parisian dining scene, known for its inventive cuisine. Chef Jacky Ribault brings his passion for quality ingredients and creative presentations to life in every dish. The intimate and elegant setting of Qui Plume la Lune, located at 50 Rue Amelot, enhances the overall dining experience, making it a must-visit for all food enthusiasts.

The restaurant’s menu changes regularly to reflect the freshest seasonal produce available in Paris, ensuring a great exploration of flavours and textures with each visit​. The lunch menu, priced at €45, offers a taste of high-end dining. Diners can expect a meal that is both refined and adventurous, showcasing Chef Ribault’s skillful blend of traditional and modern techniques.

5. Auguste: €45

Address: 54 Rue de Bourgogne, 75007 Paris (near Musée Rodin)

Chef Gaël Orieux’s Auguste is an acclaimed establishment known for its inventive approach to traditional French cuisine. Auguste offers a dining experience that is both refined and adventurous, thanks to its focus on showcasing the finest seasonal ingredients in innovative ways, backed by Orieux’s background working alongside greats like Paul Bocuse and Alain Ducasse.

Opened in 2004, Auguste draws inspiration from the iconic Auguste Escoffier’s Culinary Guide. Situated in a neighborhood steeped in history, just a stone’s throw away from the Rodin Museum and the dome of the Invalides, the restaurant represents the timeless elegance of old Paris.

The restaurant’s popular lunch menu, starting at €45, highlights seasonal ingredients and a blend of classic and contemporary techniques. The atmosphere at Auguste is intimate and stylish, perfect for enjoying a relaxed yet refined meal.

6. Gaya par Pierre Gagnaire: €48

Address: 6 Rue de Saint-Simon, 75007 Paris (near Musée Maillol)

Gaya par Pierre Gagnaire is a seafood-focused restaurant helmed by the legendary Pierre Gagnaire. Located at 6 Rue Saint-Simon, diners can expect a menu that reflects Gagnaire’s philosophy of creativity and excellence in every dish. The menu includes dishes such as scallops and langoustines, prepared with a creative twist. Chef Philippe Daverio leads the kitchen, ensuring every dish reflects Gagnaire’s philosophy.

The restaurant’s ambiance is sophisticated yet welcoming, with contemporary décor that complements the inventive menu. Gaya is open for lunch and dinner, with the two-course lunch menu priced at an affordable €49, featuring a main dish and a dessert.

7. La Scène Thélème: €49

Address: 18 Rue Troyon, 75017 Paris (near Arc de Triomphe)

La Scène Thélème, located at 18 Rue Troyon in Paris, elegantly combines a Michelin-starred restaurant with an intimate theatre. Head Chef Yoshitaka Takayanagi, a native of the Mount Fuji region, masterfully blends French and Japanese culinary traditions to create a menu that highlights the natural form of ingredients. Signature dishes feature delicate flavors and artistic presentations, using seasonal vegetables, fresh seafood, and meats.

The restaurant focuses on seasonality and local produce, ensuring that each dish is a tribute to nature and the changing seasons. Diners can enjoy a theatrical dining experience where the meal is as much a sensory performance as it is a culinary delight. The theatre attached to the restaurant hosts performances by renowned artists, making each visit memorable.

La Scène Thélème offers both lunch and dinner menus. The most affordable option is the two-course lunch menu at 49€, consisting of a main dish and a dessert. This offers the perfect chance to experience Chef Takayanagi’s refined yet accessible culinary artistry in a warm, inviting setting.

8. L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon Étoile: €49

Address: 133 Av. des Champs-Élysées, 75008 Paris, France

L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon Étoile is one of the renowned establishments of the late Joël Robuchon, a celebrated chef with numerous Michelin stars to his name. Here, the legacy of Robuchon lives on through the skilled hands of Chef Éric Bouchenoire, elected “Meilleur Ouvrier de France” in 2000. This restaurant offers a sophisticated dining experience with a focus on French haute cuisine made with seasonal, market-fresh ingredients.

The restaurant has over 60 exquisite offerings that showcase both Bouchenoire and Robuchon’s dedication to perfection and innovation. The lunch menu is carefully crafted to offer a taste of the restaurant’s exceptional culinary artistry at an accessible €49. The open kitchen design also allows diners to watch the chefs at work, creating an engaging dining experience.  

9. Hémicycle: €49

Address: Address: 5 Rue de Bourgogne, 75007 Paris (in-between Hôtel des Invalides and Musée de l’Orangerie)

Hémicycle, situated in a historical location near the French National Assembly, offers a refined dining experience under the guidance of Chef François Dinot. The restaurant’s menu emphasises contemporary French cuisine with subtle Italian influences, thanks to acidic, bitter notes that add depth and complexity to each dish.

On the ground floor of Hémicycle you’ll find the bustling kitchen and elegant décor, while the first floor hosts a dessert bar where you can indulge in a variety of unique sweet treats prepared by Chef Aurora Storari. Upstairs, the Wine Room offers a secluded space with a round table and an impressive wine cellar, perfect for business meetings or private celebrations.

The lunch menu, priced at €49, is designed to provide an elegant yet affordable taste of fine dining. This menu is available Tuesday to Friday, and includes a starter, main course, and dessert. 

Michelin-Starred Dinner Below 100 Euros

Expect to pay quite a bit more for dinner, but it’s a perfect way to celebrate the end of a fun and thrilling Olympic day. Plus, this is when you can taste the best dishes and tasting menus that Michelin-starred restaurants have to offer.

So what are the most affordable Michelin dining options in Paris?

1. Fleur de Pavé
_{Prices starting at €75}

Address: 5 Rue Paul Lelong, 75002 Paris (near Jardin du Palais Royal)

In the heart of Paris, Fleur de Pavé offers a delightful dining experience under the expertise of Chef Sylvain Sendra. This restaurant focuses on an inventive blend of French, Mediterranean, Asian, and South American influences, using the finest seasonal ingredients sourced from local markets. Chef Sendra combines his passion for travel and food, drawing inspiration from his visits to specifically Peru and Japan to create dishes that beautifully balance textures and flavors.

The restaurant’s intimate setting, combined with an open kitchen, allows for an immersive experience where diners can see the culinary magic unfold. The €75 dinner menu provides great value, featuring a curated selection of courses that highlight the best of modern fine dining.

2. Tomy & Co
_{Prices starting at €80}

Address: 22 Rue Surcouf, 75007 Paris (near Hôtel des Invalides)

Tomy & Co, helmed by Chef Tomy Gousset, is a modern Michelin-starred restaurant situated near Les Invalides. Chef Gousset, celebrated for his vibrant approach to French cuisine, blends traditional techniques with contemporary creativity. Diners can look forward to distinctive dishes like the lobster, gnocchi with black truffle and chanterelles, and roasted apricots with verbena.

The restaurant offers a very affordable Summer Olympics special menu with the three-course meal priced at 80 euros. Travelling with kids? No problem, there’s even an affordable children’s menu for 28 euros.

3. Jacques Faussat
^{Prices starting at €80}

Address: 54 Rue Cardinet, 75017 Paris

Jacques Faussat, situated in a charming corner of Paris, is where Chef Jacques Faussat showcases his mastery of traditional French cuisine with a modern twist. Each dish is fresh with the seasons and flavoured with spices Chef Faussat collected during his travels. From the succulent meats to the delicate desserts, every course is a celebration of French culinary excellence.

Chef Faussat’s dedication to quality and authenticity shines through in the €80 dinner menu. This menu consists of three courses and guests can expect authentic, specialty dishes such as Mackerel combined with peas, and Stuffed Ballotine of Chard.

4. Hémicycle
^{Prices starting at €85}

Address: 5 Rue de Bourgogne, 75007 Paris (in-between Hôtel des Invalides and Musée de l’Orangerie)

Located near the French National Assembly, Hémicycle is a refined dining destination where Chef François Dinot crafts dishes that reflect contemporary French cuisine. Chef Dinot’s philosophy emphasises balance and harmony, with each course thoughtfully composed to highlight the natural flavours of the ingredients.

Hémicycle spans three floors: the ground floor features an elegant dining area designed by Michel Amar; the first floor hosts a dedicated dessert bar; and the Wine Room above offers an intimate space with a large round table and exceptional wine collection. The desserts, crafted by pastry chef Aurora Storari, redefine the entire dining experience with creations that turn the end of a meal into a highlight.

The €85 dinner menu is designed to offer a sophisticated yet accessible gastronomic experience, featuring a carefully curated selection of seasonal dishes. The elegant décor and attentive service at Hémicycle create an inviting atmosphere that keeps guests coming back.

5. FIEF
^{Prices starting at €95}

Address: 44 Rue de la Folie Méricourt, 75011 Paris (near Bataclan)

FIEF, an acronym for “Fait Ici En France” (Made Here in France), is the brainchild of Chef Damien Laforce. The restaurant’s philosophy is to showcase the best of French ingredients, with a focus on sustainability and local sourcing. Chef Laforce, who has trained under some of France’s top chefs, brings a dedication to quality and innovation to every dish.

The €95 dinner menu showcases the finest locally sourced ingredients, expertly prepared to highlight their natural flavours. This menu includes five courses and a curated selection of French wines to complement each dish.

FIEF’s commitment to using only French ingredients and its inventive menu make it a must-visit for anyone interested in contemporary French cuisine.

6. Baieta
^{Prices starting at €95}

Address: 7-5 Rue de Pontoise, 75005 Paris

Situated in a bustling area of Paris at 5 Rue de Pontoise, Baieta, meaning “little kiss” in the Nice dialect, is a charming restaurant where Chef Julia Sedefdjian brings the colors and flavors of the Mediterranean to Paris. Chef Sedefdjian’s passion for fresh, high-quality ingredients is evident in every bite, from the starters to the desserts.

The €95 dinner menu is an exploration of Southern French cuisine, featuring dishes that are both vibrant and comforting. This menu consists of four courses and a mignardise. The cosy atmosphere of Baieta makes it a perfect choice for a romantic dinner.

7. Restaurant H
^{Prices starting at €95}

Address: 13 Rue Jean Beausire, 75004 Paris (near Place de la Bastille )

In the Marais district, you’ll find Restaurant H, led by Chef Hubert Duchenne, a rising star in Parisian cuisine. Chef Duchenne’s background includes experience at prestigious restaurants such as Le Meurice and Le Carré des Feuillants. At Restaurant H, he brings his expertise to bear on a menu that combines traditional French techniques with modern flavors and presentations.

The restaurant has a relaxed atmosphere, featuring retro-futuristic décor and natural, simplistic finishes. Here, you will find pop art against the walls, petrol blue couches, and intriguing Tom Dixon lighting.

The popular €95 dinner menu at Restaurant H is a gastronomic journey through contemporary French cuisine, featuring dishes that are as visually stunning as they are delicious.

8. Auguste
^{Prices starting at €96}

Address: 54 Rue de Bourgogne, 75007 Paris (near Musée Rodin)

At Auguste, Chef Gaël Orieux presents a sophisticated take on French cuisine, drawing inspiration from his experiences working with culinary legends like Paul Bocuse and Alain Ducasse. He creates innovative dishes that blend land and sea flavours, such as foie gras poached in shrimp consommé and pork belly with hulls and truffles, all while advocating for sustainable fishing.

Situated in the historic Palais Bourbon quarter, its décor exudes a blend of sophistication and modernity, reflecting the spirit of its London influences. Led by a dedicated team, including room director Carmen Shumacher and sommelier Mathias Duciel, Auguste continues to uphold its tradition while embracing innovation

The €96 dinner menu at Auguste offers a selection of dishes that showcase the finest seasonal ingredients. Guests can expect a range of appetizers, such as delicate seafood starters or vegetarian options, followed by main courses highlighting the harmonious blend of land and sea flavors.

Related: Most Expensive Michelin Restaurants in Paris

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Our research team has crunched the latest data to reveal the cities with the most Michelin stars in 2024.

1. Tokyo

No of restaurants: 180

Tokyo, with an impressive 180 Michelin-starred restaurants, remains the city with the highest number of Michelin restaurants in the world. Known for its amazing culinary scene, Tokyo offers everything from traditional sushi and kaiseki to traditional French or innovative fusion cuisine. The city’s commitment to culinary artistry and excellence solidifies its position as a global gastronomic leader.

2. Paris

No of restaurants: 122

Paris, the epitome of fine dining and the birthplace of haute cuisine, boasts 122 Michelin-starred restaurants in 2024. While the French capital is outranked by Tokyo, France can boast about being the country with the highest number of Michelin restaurants in the world, outranking Japan, which placed second.

Dining out at a Michelin restaurant in the French capital doesn’t come cheap – the average tasting menu is priced at €210, while you can pay up to €680 to dine out at one the most expensive restaurants in Paris.

3. Kyoto

No of restaurants: 100

Kyoto, with 100 Michelin-starred restaurants, is celebrated for its traditional kaiseki cuisine and meticulous attention to detail. The city’s rich culinary heritage and serene ambiance make it a haven for those seeking refined and authentic Japanese dining experiences.

4. Osaka

No of restaurants: 85

Osaka, known as the “Kitchen of Japan” during the Edo era, is home to 85 Michelin-starred restaurants. The city offers a vibrant food scene, ranging from delicious Japanese street food to high-end dining. Osaka’s culinary offerings reflect its energetic spirit and dedication to gastronomic excellence.

5. London

No of restaurants: 80

London, with 80 Michelin-starred restaurants, stands out as a major player in the global dining scene. The city’s diverse culinary landscape includes everything from traditional British fare to cutting-edge modern cuisine, making it a top destination for food enthusiasts.

6. Hong Kong

No of restaurants: 79

Hong Kong, with 79 Michelin-starred restaurants, is renowned for its amazing food culture. The city offers a unique blend of Cantonese cuisine and international influences, creating a rich and varied dining experience that attracts gourmets from all over the world.

However, Hong Kong is also known for being especially pricey and fine dining does not make an exception. The city ranked third among the most expensive cities to dine out at a Michelin restaurant.

7. New York

No of restaurants: 68

New York City, boasting 68 Michelin-starred restaurants, is a culinary melting pot. The city’s dining scene is a reflection of its cultural diversity, offering a plethora of options from upscale fine dining to innovative street food.

New York is home to two of the most expensive Michelin restaurants in the world: Masa NYC and Caviar Russe, where the costliest tasting menu is priced at close to $1,000 per person. But there are also some more affordable Michelin restaurants in NYC where you can experience a Michelin star meal under $80.

8. Singapore

No of restaurants: 53

Singapore, with 53 Michelin-starred restaurants, has rapidly become a global food destination. Known for its hawker centers and high-end dining establishments, Singapore’s culinary scene is a testament to its cultural diversity and passion for food.

9. Shanghai

No of restaurants: 51

Shanghai is home to 51 Michelin-starred restaurants, showcasing a fusion of traditional Chinese and contemporary international cuisines. The city’s dynamic food scene and innovative culinary trends make it a must-visit destination for food lovers.

It is also home to Ultraviolet by Paul Poiret, which is one of the most expensive Michelin restaurants in the world.

10. Taipei

No of restaurants: 35

Taipei, with 35 Michelin-starred restaurants, offers a rich tapestry of flavors, from street food to gourmet dining. The city’s culinary landscape is deeply rooted in Taiwanese traditions, yet it continually evolves, embracing new and exciting gastronomic trends.

Asia Dominates Top 10

The Financial Times has recently stated that the West’s relative loss of power is reflected in fine dining, as indicated by the increasing number of Michelin-starred restaurants specializing in Asian and African cuisines.

While we don’t necessarily agree with the entirety of the article, when it comes to the cities with the highest number of Michelin restaurants, the center of gravity has definitely shifted eastwards.

Seven of the top 10 cities with the highest number of Michelin restaurants, including the number one ranked city – Tokyo, are in Asia. Paris, London, and New York are the only non-Asian cities in the top 10.

Please find below the full top 50.

Related: Countries with the Most Michelin Restaurants
Related: How much does it cost to dine out at a Michelin restaurant

The post Cities with the Most Michelin Restaurants in 2024 appeared first on Chef's Pencil.

Argentina, Vietnam, Malaysia, Latvia, Estonia, Poland and Czechia are just some of the newest additions to the Michelin Guide. But which countries are home to the most Michelin-starred restaurants?

1. France

Number of restaurants: 639

France, the birthplace of the Michelin Guide, continues to be the undisputed global leader with the most Michelin restaurants in the world (639 restaurants in 2024). This is hardly surprising considering that French food has long been regarded as the epitome of fine dining.

What’s more, the Michelin Guide covers the entire French territory, a big advantage over some of its global competitors such as Japan, China, or the United States, for which the geographic coverage is more limited. More on this later.

2. Japan

Number of restaurants: 393

Japan has the second highest number of Michelin restaurants in the world. It is home to 393 Michelin-starred restaurants and Tokyo is the city with the highest number of Michelin restaurants worldwide (more than Paris, London or New York).

Japanese cuisine has risen to become the second most prominent culinary offering in Michelin restaurants globally, solidifying Japan’s position as a premier destination for fine dining around the world. Japan is also home to some of the most expensive Michelin restaurants to be found anywhere, with tasting menus priced at several hundred dollars per person.

The Michelin Guide coverage in Japan is limited to its three largest metropolitan areas – Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto – so Japan could actually do much better if it had a more comprehensive geographic coverage.

3. Italy

Number of restaurants: 392

Italian food is universally adored, and while its most renowned export may be the humble pizza, Italian culinary tradition offers a plethora of exquisite dishes that elevate it to the realm of fine dining. Italy is home to 392 Michelin restaurants, just one less than second-placed Japan.

4. Germany

Number of restaurants: 313

Home to 313 Michelin restaurants, Germany ranks 4th worldwide, and it is definitely an under-appreciated fine-dining destination.

Spain, or its smaller southern and northern neighbors of Switzerland and Denmark, respectively, are much better known internationally for their fine-dining scene, though neither can compete with Germany when it comes to sheer volume of Michelin-starred restaurants.

5. Spain

Number of restaurants: 269

Spain has 269 Michelin restaurants and is home to some of the most legendary fine-dining establishments in the world. El Bulli, the now-closed restaurant of Chef Ferran Adrià, was considered for many years the world’s best and most innovative restaurant.

But El Bulli’s rise to prominence was not an isolated incident – El Cellar de Can Roca, DiverXO, Aponiente, Disfrutar or Asador Etxebarri are just a few Spanish restaurants that are regarded as some of the best fine-dining establishments in the world.

10. China

Number of restaurants: 123

Mainland China is home to 123 Michelin restaurants, which ranks China second in Asia after Japan.

There is a lot to love about traditional Chinese cooking, and its local fine-dining scene is as diverse as China itself. You can experience some fabulous Sichuan delicacies in Chengdu, superb Hangzhou cuisine in its eponymous city, Hu cuisine in Shanghai and gourmet Peking food in one of Beijing finest Michelin restaurants. Of course, there are also some exceptional Michelin restaurants in China that specialize in French or Italian cuisine.

Please find the full rankings below:

You May Also Like:

• Cities and Countries with the Highest Number of Michelin Restaurants per Capita
• The Global Price of Michelin Dining
• Cities with the Most Michelin Restaurants

The post Countries with Most Michelin Restaurants in 2024 appeared first on Chef's Pencil.

Every food enthusiast dreams of dining at a Michelin-starred restaurant, hoping to indulge in the highly sought-after tasting menus which are renowned for their opulence; this is a hallmark of luxury establishments, and especially those bearing Michelin stars. These menus typically consist of a series of carefully curated dishes, often small portions, designed to showcase the chef’s creativity and skill using the finest ingredients available.

But dining out at a Michelin-starred restaurant can can come with a steep cost. Three years ago our team began collating and analyzing prices at all two- and three-starred restaurants. This time, we went further and included one-stared Michelin restaurants.

All in all, we studied the menus of 3,517 Michelin-starred restaurants (one, two and three stars) in all countries and territories covered by the guide (a total of 41). We particularly wanted to look at their tasting menus, and where more than one tasting menu is offered, we selected the priciest ones.

Unlucky for us, we couldn’t actually visit each restaurant. So we had to rely on the prices displayed on the restaurants’ websites and reservation apps. When unavailable, we trawled various media outlets, blogs, diner reports published on Google Maps, and other restaurant review websites to bring you as much information as we could. For more details, check out our methodology section at the end of the report.

We used the median value to report on aggregate numbers (in our prior report we used the mean), as we find this more representative of local markets. But, for simplicity, we refer to the median as the average throughout this report.

$100: The Cost for Every Additional Star

Experiencing the premium tasting menu at a Michelin-starred restaurant doesn’t come cheap. Our analysis shows that the median for the 3,300+ Michelin restaurants included in our analysis is $179 (€167). Prices are per person and don’t generally include drinks, government charges or tips. The mean is closer to $200 ($198 to be more specific) as it’s skewed by a significant number of restaurants with stratospheric prices.

As expected, you’ll generally pay more for two- and three-starred Michelin restaurants. Interestingly the average difference is almost a full $100 for each additional Michelin star. On average it costs $165 (€155) to experience the premium tasting menu at an one-star Michelin restaurant, $256 (€240) for a two-starred restaurant and $356 (€334) for three-starred restaurants.

Most and Least Expensive Countries and Territories

Besides the number of stars, geography plays a huge role in Michelin-starred restaurant pricing. Denmark remains the world’s most expensive place to dine out at a Michelin-starred restaurant, in spite of the Michelin Guide geographic expansion to other pricey countries such as the U.A.E. It costs on average $314 (€295 or 2,200DKK) to experience the premium tasting menu in Danish Michelin restaurants. It’s even more expensive if we single out the Danish capital, but more on that later.

In spite of the sky-high prices, Denmark has established itself as one of world’s top gourmet destinations and many foodies flock to this Nordic country to experience some of the most creative fine dining in the world. The country is home to 32 Michelin restaurants, including two with the highly coveted three Michelin stars, and its restaurants have topped other prestigious industry rankings for years.

Hong Kong SAR ranks second among the most expensive countries and territories for dining out at a Michelin restaurant. This Asian culinary powerhouse needs no introduction – it’s long been one of the most sought-after culinary destinations, and it’s also known as one of the most expensive places to live (ranked first in the latest report published by Mercer).

The Nordic island nation of Iceland has been recently added to the Michelin Guide. Three of its restaurants have been awarded a Michelin star, not a bad feat for a nation with a population of roughly 380,000 residents. As with other things in Iceland, fine dining is expensive. It costs $248 (€233 or 34,990ISK) on average to experience the top tasting menu.

Singapore ranked second in our previous 2021 report, and it continues to be one of the most expensive countries for fine dining in the world, as well as one of the most expensive places to live. But as the saying goes, “you get what you pay for,” and this stands true for the quality of life in Singapore, as well as its fine dining scene.

Singapore is home to some amazing Michelin restaurants, 53 in total, with nine of them holding two or three stars. It’s also one of the ten leading cities with at least three three-star rated Michelin restaurants.

The United States ranks fifth worldwide among the most expensive countries. It costs $227 per person on average to dine out at a Michelin restaurant in the US if you opt for the most expensive tasting menu. This is substantially more than the $20 that roughly half of Americans reportedly were spending for dinner in 2023.

However, although the Michelin Guide expanded their coverage in the US, it is still limited to a few cities and areas such as New York, the Bay Area and South Florida, which are known for their significantly higher than average cost of living and dining costs.

At the other end of the scale, if you are looking for a bargain, head to Vietnam. It only costs $130 on average to dine out at a Michelin restaurant, though you’ll find your options limited. The Michelin Guide was first launched in Vietnam in 2023, and four local restaurants were awarded the coveted Michelin star.

For more options and more affordable Michelin meals, head to Brazil. It’s two largest cities, São Paolo and Rio de Janeiro, are home to 13 Michelin restaurants where the priciest tasting menu costs on average just $131 (€124 or 680 Brazilian reals). More on São Paolo and Rio de Janeiro later.

For affordable Michelin-star meals in Europe head to the sunny Mediterranean, more specifically, go straight to Malta and Greece. The small island nation of Malta is home to five Michelin restaurants and it’s the more affordable place in Europe to dine out (€125 euro per person) at one of these luxury restaurants.

Greece comes second in Europe with an average cost of $140 (€132) for dining out at one of its 12 Michelin restaurants, all located in Athens, which is the extent of Michelin Guide coverage in the country.

Most and Least Expensive Cities for Fine Dining

Copenhagen is undisputedly the most expensive city in the world for fine dining. The most expensive tasting menu in Denmark's capital costs on average $443 (€416 or 3100DKK) per person, not including drinks.

The city is home to 14 Michelin-starred restaurants, with eight of them holding two or three stars. Over the past couple of decades it has transformed itself into a culinary mecca, home to the legendary Noma, long considered the best restaurant in the world (which has, incidentally, announced its closure at the end of the year) and other amazing establishments such as Geranium and The Alchemist.

Macao, the world's gambling capital, has one of the highest densities of Michelin-starred restaurants per mile in the world and it's the second most expensive city in the world. It is home to 16 Michelin-starred restaurants, with eight of them holding two or three stars. It costs an average of $283 (€265) to experience the most expensive tasting menu or 2,280 MOP, Macao's local currency.

Hong Kong has always been a top culinary destination, and it has the third largest number of three stars Michelin restaurants in the world (next to Paris and Tokyo). The city is also famous for its stratospheric real estate prices and its fine-dining scene is equally expensive, ranking the city third in the world.

San Francisco is the most expensive city for fine dining in North America and fourth worldwide. To experience the most expensive tasting menu in the city, it will cost you on average $263. San Francisco and the Bay Area have long been among the world's top fine-dining destinations. San Francisco has the second number of Michelin restaurants in the Americas, after New York.

Dubai has established itself as a global finance and tourism hub with culinary excellence emerging as a natural progression for the emirate. It's fine-dining scene is as diverse as its resident population: French, Italian, Chinese, Indian, Japanese, Portuguese and British-inspired cuisine count among the emirate's 14 Michelin-starred restaurants.

Like its luxurious hotel accommodation, indulging in the finest gastronomic experiences the city has to offer comes at considerable cost. The priciest tasting menu costs on average $259 (€243) per person.

For a more affordable luxury dining experience, head to Chengdu and Hangzhou in China. You won't be disappointed. Chengdu is the capital of the Sichuan province and the birthplace of the world-famous Sichuan cuisine. Chengdu was honored as a UNESCO city of gastronomy to celebrate its culinary heritage and sophistication.

Hangzhou is another Chinese city with a fantastic culinary heritage, home to Hangzhou and Zhe cuisine, one of China's eight culinary traditions.

Vancouver, Canada ranks surprisingly as the second least expensive city for fine dining. The Canadian city has a fantastically diverse dining scene and has consistently ranked as one of the best foodie destinations in the world. While locally it's known for sky-high real estate prices, when it comes to fine dining, it's quite a bargain (from a global perspective).

On average it costs $114 USD ($155 CAD) to experience the most expensive tasting menu in Vancouver's nine Michelin restaurants, while the tasting menu at the most affordable Michelin restaurant in Vancouver is priced at just $80 CAD. It's almost twice more expensive in Toronto, the other Canadian city covered by the Michelin Guide, and other American cities on the Pacific Coast.

The Brazilian mega-cities of São Paolo and Rio de Janeiro are two other top culinary destinations where you can enjoy a Michelin meal at affordable rates. It costs on average $115 (€108 or 596 Reals) to enjoy the priciest tasting menus in São Paolo's Michelin restaurants.

São Paolo metro area is home to about one million ethnic Japanese, so if you're looking for Michelin-worthy sushi and sashimi at more affordable rates, this is the place to be. There are four Michelin-starred Japanese restaurants in the city where the tasting menu is priced on average for 488 Brazilian reals (roughly $95 USD or 89 euros).

Most Expensive Alpine Resorts, Lakeside and Beach Towns

Skiing goes hand in hand with good food and Michelin restaurants abound in posh ski resorts. Courchevel, a luxury ski resort in the French Alps with a resident population of roughly 2,000, is home to seven Michelin restaurants, more than Venice, Brussels or Atlanta.

Saint Moritz, the luxury Swiss ski resort, is home to five Michelin restaurants, on a par with Rio de Janeiro, while Baiersbronn in Germany, has four Michelin restaurants, two of them with three Michelin stars. This small town in the German Black Forrest mountains has as many three-stared Michelin restaurants as Chicago, Copenhagen, or Shanghai.

The most expensive ski resort for fine dining is Megève, a French ski report in the Mont Blanc massif, where the costliest tasting menu costs on average $314 (€295). Megève is followed by Courchevel, Baiersbronn and St. Moritz.

There is no shortage of Michelin restaurants in upscale beach towns either, especially on the Mediterranean. But the two most expensive are not actually on the Mediterranean, but reside in a beautiful Swiss lakeside resort on Lake Maggiore – Ascona – and glitzy Miami Beach in Southern Florida.

Mapping the Trends: Visual Insights into Global Dining Costs

In this section, we delve deeper into the data with four additional maps, providing a comprehensive overview of dining costs across different regions.

How to Eat (More) Affordably at Michelin Restaurants

Our research focused on prices for the dinner tasting menu. But if you are really looking for a bargain, go for a lunch menu. These are usually substantially cheaper than dinner, though not all restaurants offer a lunch service. For example, you can find affordable Michelin restaurants in Paris offering a fixed lunch menu for under €50.

If you are determined to go for the dinner menu, you might get a nice discount by going mid week rather than the weekend, when it's generally more crowded.

Don't be put off by the prices. We focused on the most expensive tasting menu, and many Michelin restaurants also offer more affordable tasting menus with three or four courses. You could also go for restaurants that offer an a la carte menu where you'll find more affordable dishes that won't break the bank. It's also worth looking at the vegetarian menu (when available) as a way to reduce the bill.

Drinks can be a large expense on a restaurant bill, and especially so for Michelin-starred establishments, so opting for moderation will definitely pay off.

Methodology

Our team researched the menus of 3,517 Michelin-starred restaurants (one, two and three stars) in all countries and territories covered by the guide and were able to find pricing data for 3,309 of those restaurants. The research was conducted between March 20th and April 19th 2024.

We included in our analysis restaurants that offer a tasting menu and when more than one tasting menu was offered, we selected the priciest one. The prices collected by our researchers are per person and mostly do not include drinks, service charges or gratuity. Service charges and gratuity customs differ from country to country and combined they can range from zero to 30%+ depending on country and establishment.

We did not include the price for extras (caviar is a popular choice), though we included caviar-heavy tasting menus when they were presented as stand-alone prestige tasting menus.

Our research primarily relied on prices displayed on the restaurant's websites and reservation apps. When unavailable, we included information from various media outlets, blogs and recent dinner reports published on Google Maps and other restaurant review websites. In mainland China, we complemented the pricing data from DianPing, a popular restaurant review app. For mainland China restaurants we have not been able to confirm the availability of tasting menus for many restaurants and the prices may in some cases reflect the average dinner price rather than the price of the most expensive tasting menu on offer.

For restaurants located in alpine or seaside resorts only open for the season, we included, where available, prices from the past season (2023-2024).

In our country rankings, we included countries with at least three Michelin-starred restaurants that offer a tasting menu. As a consequence, Czechia, Estonia, Latvia were not included in our country rankings. Moreover, micro-countries and territories such as Monaco and Macau (SAR) were not included in the countries and territories rankings.

The same threshold of a minimum of five Michelin-starred restaurants was used for our city rankings. For our alpine and beach resort rankings, as well as our North American city map, the threshold was lowered to a minimum of three Michelin-starred restaurants.

Prices were researched in local currency and were converted to USD and Euro using the currency exchange rate reported by Bloomberg on April 19th. An exception was Argentina, where we used the blue dollar rate reported by https://bluedollar.net on April 19th.

We used the median value to report on aggregate numbers as we considered the median value to be more representative for local markets. For the simplicity of our reporting, we refer to the median as the average throughout this report. In our previous report published in 2021, we used the average (mean) value. Values were rounded up.

Price changes for some individual restaurants have occurred during our research phase, and restaurants will continue to update their menus and offerings, but these pricing updates should not have a sizable impact on the average values reported.

For questions about this report please contact us at chef@chefspencil.com.

Fair Use and Redistribution

Chef’s Pencil grants you permission to reuse, host, or repost the graphics and images from this article. When doing so, we ask that you kindly attribute the authors by linking to Chef’s Pencil or this page.

The post Exploring Michelin Dining Costs Across 40 Countries: A Global Analysis appeared first on Chef's Pencil.

• Employment in the Food Preparation and Serving category is down 7% compared to pre-pandemic levels, and recovery is very uneven within the professional groups.
• San Francisco, CA (down 18%), Detroit, MI (down 17%) and Portland, OR (down 17%) metro areas are among the slowest recovering metros, with employment in the sector performing substantially worse than the national average.
• On the other hand, the metros of Phoenix, AZ (up 3%), Jacksonville, FL (up 1%), Dallas-Forth Worth, TX and Riverside-Bernardino, CA have seen their employment levels in the sector matching or surpassing pre-pandemic levels.
• The number of cooks and chefs employed in the U.S. reaches an all-time high.
• Wages for chefs and head cooks pass $60k for the first time, but real pay increases was negative for the last two consecutive years.
• Cooks have enjoyed substantially larger pay increases in the post-pandemic years compared to chefs (18% and 7% respectively from 2019 to 2022), reversing an almost decade-long trend that saw a growing pay gap between the two categories.
• Food and beverage serving jobs were still well below pre-pandemic levels in 2022 (down 16%), with the number of waiters and waitresses down 18% compared to 2019.
• Waiters, waitresses and bartenders have enjoyed the biggest pay increases compared to pre-pandemic levels (up 23% compared to 2019) among occupations with at least 500,000 employed workers.
• Dishwashers’ wages rose 21% compared to 2019, but this was not a strong enough incentive as their number was down 16% compared to 2019.
• Employment of fast food and counter workers was down 17% compared to 2019. Earning on average $13.53 per hour, this is the lowest paid professional category in the food and beverage serving industry.

While employment in the food and beverage service industry is still, on aggregate, down compared to pre-pandemic levels, the most recent data set published by the Bureau of Labor Statistics shows un uneven picture among various professional groups and geographies.

More than 1.3 million food preparation and service related jobs were added between 2021 and 2022, but that was not enough to offset the massive loss of jobs in the sector seen at the beginning of the pandemic. Thus, employment in the sector is still down 7% compared to 2019.

The recovery is very uneven on a national level with some metros experiencing growth (i.e. Phoenix, AZ and Jacksonville, FL), while others are substantially down, for example, San Francisco, CA is down 18% and both Detroit, MI and Portland, OR are down 17%.

The number of Chefs and Head Cooks employed in the U.S. reached an all-time high in 2022, up 29% Y-o-Y and up 25% compared to 2019.

The number of cooks employed in 2022 also reached an all-time high at 2.61 million, up 9% from pre-pandemic levels. There is a similar trend in the larger segment of cooks and food preparation workers, which rose to 3.5 million strong in 2022, up 7% Y-o-Y and up 5% compared to pre-pandemic levels (i.e. 2019).

Despite this growth, employment in the industry is still down 7% compared to 2019. This is due to a massive shortage in food serving personnel, hosts and hostesses, as well as dishwashers.

Close to 700k food and beverage serving jobs were added between 2021 and 2022, but that was not nearly enough to fill the gaps, as employment for this segment was down 16% compared to 2019. Among this segment, waiters and waitresses were the lowest performing group, where the number of those employed was down 18% compared to pre-pandemic levels (2.5 million in 2019 and 2.1 million in 2022).

This is despite the highest yearly pay increase in a decade as the hourly pay for waiters and waitresses increased 14% Y-o-Y in 2022 compared to an average of 4% per year in the previous decade.

Another category where employment is nowhere near pre-pandemic levels are dishwashers. Employment for this category was up 14% Y-o-Y in 2022, but the 431,000 registered dishwashers’ jobs in 2022 were a far cry from the 514,000 jobs recorded prior to the pandemic in 2019.

A dishwasher earned on average $14.21 in 2022. Wages were up 8% Y-o-Y for this group, higher than in previous years, though just enough to offset 2022’s inflation rate.

A similar story emerged for Fast Food and Counter Workers. Employment is up 7% compared to 2021, but down 17% compared to 2019. Earning on average $13.53 per hour, this is the lowest paid professional category from the food and beverage serving industry.

Automation has helped fast food chains to offset some of the staff shortages, and employment for this category was on a downward trending prior to the pandemic (down 4% in 2019 compared to 2018).

Real Wage Growth for Chefs and Head Cooks Negative for Two Consecutive Years

The average wage for chefs and head cooks was $60,210 in 2022. This is up 6% Y-o-Y, but below 2022’s inflation rate, while in 2021 it actually took a hit compared to 2020 and was down 3% Y-o-Y. Altogether wages for chefs and head cooks have increased just 6.9% compared to 2019 while the inflation rate was 14.7% over the same time period.

There are large pay differences among chefs and head cooks. The top 10% earn above $90,000, while a quarter earn less than $43,000. The state or city you work in matters a lot in this equation, as chefs in San Francisco, New York City and Hawaii earn substantially more than the national average. But even in these places, there’s a big pay difference between the best and lowest paid chefs.

On the other hand, wages for cooks have increased at a substantially faster rate. Compared to 2019, wages for cooks (all types) has increased by 16%, and wages for restaurant cooks, the highest paid cooks, has increased 18%.

This reverses a long-term trend that saw the pay gap between chefs and cooks almost double between 2001 and 2019. In 2019 the average salary for chefs and head cooks was twice as much as the average salary for cooks (104% higher to be more specific), while in 2022 the wage difference fell to 88%.

Among occupations with at least 500,000 employed workers, the largest wage gains were seen in the Food and Beverage Preparation and Serving category.

The post Cooks, Chefs Jobs Reach All-Time High, While Food & Beverage Serving Jobs Way Below Pre-pandemic Levels appeared first on Chef's Pencil.

Since 2021, we have looked at Instagram to see which are the most popular and most hashtagged foods and cuisines in the world. In February that year, we reported that the hashtag #food was featured in a whopping 430 million Instagram posts. Two years later that number has reached 498 million, and it keeps climbing. 

In our latest report for 2023, we have also included TikTok, which has emerged as one of the most popular platforms out there with more than 1 billion users. The short-form video social app has conquered the food space and countless recipe and food videos have gone viral and reached a massive audience way beyond the TikTok crowd.

There’s no denying the power and influence of social media on trends in the food and restaurant industries. But we’ve learned that what’s trending on one social media platform is not always popular on the other.

Korean food is the absolute all-time darling of the TikTok crowd, totaling 15 billion views. But while Korean cuisine takes the all time 4th most popular position on Instagram (and 5th over the past 12 months), it’s no match for Italian and Indian food popularity on that platform.

The most popular Instagram cuisines over the past 12 months

Whether you’re an amateur cook trying to get your recipes out there for the world to see, a well known chef highlighting innovative new techniques or an established restaurateur, you’ll want to be on Instagram.

This social media platform is all about visual appeal, so it’s the best way to showcase gorgeous dishes. However, since it introduced reels, Instagram has also become a great place to watch chefs and foodies in action and discover new dishes, or learn new recipes and cooking tricks. 

#Food has been mentioned close to 500 million times on Instagram, so people’s appetites are high when it comes to scrolling food pics and reels online. But zooming in on specific cuisines, we see that the three top contenders grabbing everyone’s attention are the same each year, albeit in a different order: Italian, Indian, and Japanese. 

Italian food topped 20.8 million hashtags in the past year – 16% more than the previous year

Italian is the ultimate comfort food, so it’s no surprise that it’s the most popular cuisine on Instagram. Just think about it: what do you crave when you’re stressed, having a bad day, or want to treat yourself? We think it’s likely that your answer will include either pizza, pasta, gelato, risotto, and other popular Italian foods. And what is more comforting and uplifting than a delicious Italian espresso? 

Given that the world has had a rough few years, it’s easy to see why people gravitate towards their favorite comfort foods, and, as a result, #Italianfood has amassed 20.8 million hashtags over the past 12 months. That’s 2.9 million more hashtags than the previous year, which goes to show that there is absolutely no slowdown in popularity for Italian dishes – quite the contrary. 

Pizza is the third most popular food on Instagram, collecting 66 million total mentions on the platform, 9 million of which were in the past year alone. And don’t dismiss pasta, either; this dish was featured close to 5 million times in the past 12 months on Instagram, making it the 5th most popular dish on the platform. 

Indian and Japanese follow close, both landing over 2 million hashtags in the past 12 months

In absolute numbers, Indian food is currently the second most popular cuisine on Instagram, with roughly 13 million hashtags as of March 2023. It was also the second most popular cuisine in the past 12 months, with 2.2 million new mentions on Instagram, following behind Italian food. 

It’s easy to see why. Last year, we noted how Indian dishes were starting to compete with Italian on the platform due to their rich flavors, warmth, and complexity. A true festival of flavors and spices, Indian cuisine is incredibly popular across the globe, and as a bonus, most of it is also vegetarian-friendly and highly nutritious. The proof is in the numbers: #curry was mentioned in a total of 10 million posts on Instagram, and its popularity continues to grow.

But let’s not forget Japanese food, which reached a staggering 20.2 million hashtags on Instagram in 2023. The hashtag #Japanesefood also appeared 2.2 million times on the platform over the past 12 months, proving that its popularity is not dwindling, not even a little. 

#Sushi alone has been featured in a total of 35 million Instagram posts, and was the 9th most popular food of the past year, with 3.2 million new mentions. 

Greek, Jamaican, Turkish, and Lebanese cuisines are rising in popularity on Instagram

Besides the usual suspects such as Indian food, other cuisines have been climbing the most-popular ladder in 2023, at speed. 

Greek food has enjoyed quite a surge in popularity over the past year, becoming the 8th most hashtagged international cuisine with 321,000 new mentions – a 17% growth compared to the previous year.

Greek cuisine is the quintessential Mediterranean diet, a diet that has been repeatedly ranked the best in the world. Not only is Greek food healthy, but it’s also visually appealing and incredibly delicious. The record number of tourists that Greece enjoyed in 2022 have most certainly also contributed to the increased popularity of the local cuisine.

Lebanese food is another cuisine which is rising fast in popularity on Instagram, with 194,000 mentions in the past 12 months – 18% more than the previous year. This growth makes it the cuisine with the second fastest growth on Instagram in 2023 and 13th most popular cuisine of the past year, trailing right behind French food. 

If you haven’t yet tried Lebanese food, please head to the nearest Lebanese restaurant as the food is simply amazing.

Jamaican food continues its fantastic story on Instagram. Last year, Jamaican was the cuisine with the second highest growth rate on Instagram and it continues to share the podium in 2023. Not a small feat for this Caribbean cuisine that doesn’t have the huge cultural weight nor the diaspora of Italy, India or China.

Other cuisines that are becoming more popular on Instagram include Turkish food, with 222,000 new mentions in the past year, American food, featured in 127,000 new posts, or Colombian food.

The Most Popular Cuisines on TikTok

Now that we’ve looked at what foods people are interested in when scrolling on Instagram, it’s time to move on to another incredibly popular platform for foodies: TikTok.

The short-form video platform was created in 2017, and in a short time has grown to be one of the most popular social media platforms in the world. With 672 million downloads in 2022 and roughly 1 billion users, TikTok is clearly the place to be for food lovers. 

Comparing the rankings to Instagram, there are some key similarities and some interesting differences. Given that TikTok is owned by the Chinese company ByteDance, and with a big chunk of its active users based in China, it’s no surprise that Chinese food is incredibly popular on the platform. 

The #Chinesefood hashtag has collected more than 13 billion views in the past year, making Chinese one of the top most popular cuisines on TikTok. But it’s not the most popular. 

From K-pop and K-drama to K-food and TikTok stardom

The top spot in our ranking of the most popular cuisines on TikTok is reserved for Korean food. With a staggering total of 15 billion views on the platform, #Koreanfood is the clear winner. 

Italian, Japanese, and Indian, the top cuisines on Instagram, don’t even come close in popularity on TikTok. Dishes such as bibimbap and kimchi have been making the rounds on TikTok – more than pizza, pasta, or sushi. But why are the rankings so different, and why is Korean food so massively popular on TikTok?

It might have something to do with the rise of Korean culture in the media in recent years. From K-pop music like BTS to insane Netflix hits like Squid Game, Korean culture has been taking over the internet, a phenomenon that some like to call Hallyu, or ‘the Korean wave.’ 

Whenever parts of a certain culture start to gain popularity online, the food culture is soon to follow, and that’s exactly what’s been happening with Korean food on TikTok. Korean dishes are inserting themselves into our vocabularies, and Korean chefs are getting the recognition they deserve – and social media has definitely played a part in all that. 

The differences in age demographics between the two platforms could explain the differences. TikTok is primarily favored by Gen Zs, a younger generation that’s been more heavily exposed to the Korean cultural exports.

Coming up third to Korean and Chinese food in popularity on TikTok is Mexican food. It’s not a huge surprise, given that Mexican food is the most popular ethnic cuisine in most American states, and next to China, the US is the country with the highest number of TikTok users.

Mexican food is followed closely by Indian food, which boasts 7.4 billion views, and Italian, with 7.1 billion views. The top 10 is rounded out by Japanese, Thai, Filipino food, Vietnamese, and African food. 

Methodology

Chef’s Pencil analyzed Instagram data from February 2022 through March 2023. The number of tags reported are rounded down to the nearest thousand. Instagram rankings are based on the number of tags from the prior 12 months.

TikTok rankings are based on the number of all-time views reported on the platform in March 2023.

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