This November, the Lone Star State turned heads with 15 restaurants earning one Michelin star and two receiving Michelin green stars. Embracing the diverse culinary landscape across the state, recognitions spanned over 116 restaurants and 26 different cuisines, from a distinctive omakase in Austin to French fine dining at Le Jardinier in Houston. Restaurateurs and patrons alike celebrated the recognitions at the Michelin Guide Ceremony at Houston’s 713 Music Hall.
Texas barbecue came out swinging with Michelin stars awarded to Corkscrew BBQ, InterStellar BBQ, la Barbecue, and LeRoy and Lewis Barbecue. This coveted recognition marks a distinctive shift in Michelin criticism, embracing new takes on world-class cuisine and gastronomy.
I had the honor of attending the ceremony in Houston and witnessing the joy of chefs, restauranteurs, bar managers, and staff receiving marks for what is often underappreciated work. One of the most touching moments was seeing chefs from across the state hugging, jumping, back-patting, and whooping for one another as they gathered together. The camaraderie between chefs of different cities and cuisines was apparent, and the culinary community in Texas is clearly close-knit. Whether recipients of Michelin stars or Bib Gourmand (exceptional eateries at an affordable price point), each chef beamed with pride for the work of their team and the support of their state.
A summary of the awards can be found here, noting 15 restaurants that received one star, 44 restaurants receiving Bib Gourmand, and 57 additional recommended restaurants.
To make the most of my time in the Lone Star State, Travel Texas took me on a scenic tour of Texas foodways to visit some recognized restaurants and provide insight into the state’s ever-evolving culinary scene.
Houston Highlights
Nam Giao
After arriving in Houston, I hit the ground running, eating my way across Chinatown, sampling regional cuisines and browsing international markets. Some can’t-miss dishes include the chè (Vietnamese dessert beverage) at Duc Phuong Thach Che, Paratha-dilla (masala and paratha quesadilla) at Himalaya, and bahn bot loc la (Vietnamese steamed tapioca dumplings) at Nam Giao, which was awarded Bib Gourmand.
Late August
Late August, a restaurant in Houston’s rising Ion District, is spearheaded by Chris Williams and Sergio Hidalgo and draws inspiration from both soul food and Oaxacan cuisines. From a mezcal-centric avocado sour to Williams’ infamous fry bread, each dish seamlessly blends a story of cultures and flavors. The memelitas were truly unforgettable with field greens masa, refried black eyed peas, and piri-piri sauce.
Hotel Zaza Museum District
I can’t leave Hotel Zaza Museum District off this list. If there were ever a stay dreamed up specifically for the Michelin celebration, Zaza embodies that energy. With luxe fixtures, dimmed lighting, and elaborate chandeliers, Hotel Zaza drips with a sensual, nonchalant elegance.
Seguin Highlights
Pecantown Books & Brews
Easily the quaintest bookstore I’ve ever entered, Pecantown Books & Brews is a hub for book lovers in Seguin, Texas. Browse a curated selection of fiction, nonfiction, youth novels, and cookbooks and order one of their locally-sourced lunches or coffee at the bar.
38 Pecans
Exploring Texas topography wouldn’t be complete without visiting a pecan orchard. 38 Pecans is rooted in family and undeniably Texan. Witnessing the relationship between the trees and the family that has long tended to them speaks volumes to the nature of food sustainability and growth in Seguin.
Burnt Bean Co.
Burnt Bean Co. was recognized as a Bib Gourmand, marking it as a major culinary destination for the city, and rightfully so. Ernest Servantes highlights his Tejano roots, regional ingredients, and things he loves (like local band Blue October) in every dish. While I had the joy of experiencing a curated tasting menu, I’ll be returning for his sliced brisket sandwich and Sunday breakfast specials.
Fredericksburg Highlights
Das Peach Haus
Peaches have always played a role in Texas agriculture, and Das Peach Haus has grown from a roadside peach stand to a nationwide purveyor of gourmet jams, jellies, sauces, and spirits. A testament to their values amidst massive growth, Fischer & Wieser has kept their focus on the community, sharing their peach harvest within Fredericksburg.
Becker Vineyards
Becker Vineyards is home to 66 acres of vineyards and lavender fields. One of the largest purveyors of Texas wine, Becker is a testament to the growing acclaim for Texas grapes and a pioneer of sustainable horticulture. The two bottles that must come home with you: 2021 Provencal Rose and 2020 Malbec Reserve.
The Trueheart Hotel
Feel tucked away in the Texas Hill Country but stay steps from downtown Fredericksburg at The Trueheart Hotel. Each casita has a personality of its own and is equipped with fluffy bedding and cozy amenities. My favorite feature was the (still warm) homemade biscuits, preserves, and butter hand-delivered in a picnic basket.
San Antonio Highlights
Culinary Institute of America
San Antonio is home to one of the four branches of the Culinary Institute of America, and, as such, has become a hub for budding chefs, mixologists, and hospitality professionals. The institute works as an instructive, altruistic, and mentorship partner alongside students to guide them into their future careers. Savor, the institute’s San Antonio restaurant space, provides the community with a direct dining experience to enjoy the fruits of their instruction firsthand.
La Cantera Resort & Spa and Signature
Minutes from downtown San Antonio, La Cantera Resort & Spa is an oasis for shopping, golf, relaxation, and, now, a Michelin-recommended dining experience at their on-site restaurant, Signature. With pronounced elegance, Signature is poised to present the finest cuisine of the Texas Hill Country. Observe their open kitchen concept for expert execution of dishes and peruse an impressive artillery of wine and spirits for pairing.
Pullman Market
Perched in San Antonio’s historic Peal District, Pullman Market is a beacon of sustainable, local provisions and a one-stop shop for any culinary aficionado. Whether you’re seeking local produce, handmade tortillas, dry-aged beef, or fresh-roasted coffee beans, you can fill your cart at Pullman. Beyond grocery, Pullman houses dining experiences like Isidore, Fife & Farro, Mezquite, and Nicōsi that collaborate and correlate with the market for a fully sustainable food ecosystem.
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Amber Chase
Amber Chase brings a breadth of food knowledge, a hearty work ethic, and a very high gluten tolerance to her role as Digital Editor for The Local Palate. Her other full-time gig is parenting her daughter, Nova, who will no doubt grow to be her superior.
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