How Many Michelin Star Restaurants in California: Key Takeaways
- As of August 2025, California has 87 Michelin-starred restaurants across three star categories.
- The state includes 8 three-star, 13 two-star, and 66 one-star Michelin restaurants, showcasing a diverse culinary scene.
- California features 16 Green Star restaurants for sustainability and 132 Bib Gourmand establishments for quality at moderate prices.
California's Michelin-starred dining scene reflects its exceptional culinary quality and innovation.
This article highlights the state's top Michelin restaurants, sustainability efforts, and emerging dining trends for 2025.
1. Overview of Michelin Star Restaurant Distribution in California
California's culinary landscape is one of the most vibrant and varied in the United States, which is clearly reflected in the Michelin Guide’s 2025 California edition.
With a total of 87 Michelin-starred restaurants, the state stands out as a premier destination for fine dining aficionados.
The Michelin Guide categorizes these restaurants based on their star ratings, which signify the quality and experience offered.
2. Three-Star Michelin Restaurants in California
Three Michelin stars represent exceptional cuisine that is worth a special journey, and California proudly hosts eight such prestigious establishments.
Some notable restaurants in this elite group include:
- Addison in San Diego
- Atelier Crenn and Benu in San Francisco
- Providence in Hollywood, recently elevated to three stars in 2025
- Quince in San Francisco
- SingleThread in Healdsburg
- Somni in West Hollywood, which entered the guide directly with three stars
- The French Laundry in Yountville
These restaurants are distinguished by their meticulous attention to detail, exceptional ingredients, and innovative techniques.
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3. Two-Star Michelin Restaurants in California
The two-star level denotes excellent cooking worth a detour, and California's 13 two-star restaurants offer a refined dining experience.
Recent additions such as Enclos in Sonoma, awarded two stars on debut, and Kiln in San Francisco, promoted from one to two stars, reflect the growing diversity and innovation in the state's culinary scene.
These restaurants tend to provide masterful, creative menus that impress diners without quite reaching the three-star pinnacle.
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4. One-Star Michelin Restaurants in California
One star is awarded to restaurants recognized for high-quality cooking worth a stop, with California featuring 66 such establishments.
The 2025 selection introduced five new one-star recipients, including Lilo in Carlsbad, a standout for earning a Michelin star just two months after opening.
This category represents a broad array of culinary styles and experiences, from emerging chefs to established favorites creating memorable meals.
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5. Green Star and Bib Gourmand Recognitions in California
Beyond traditional stars, Michelin awards Green Stars to restaurants demonstrating outstanding commitment to sustainable gastronomy.
In 2025, California added two new Green Star restaurants—Enclos in Sonoma and Sons & Daughters in San Francisco—bringing the statewide total to 16.
This recognition highlights the growing importance of eco-conscious practices in fine dining.
Additionally, 132 California restaurants hold the Bib Gourmand award, designating eateries offering quality food at moderate prices.
The 2025 guide welcomed six new Bib Gourmand selections, emphasizing California’s capacity to deliver excellent dining experiences across price points.
6. Statewide Diversity and Cuisine Variety in the 2025 Michelin Guide
The 2025 guide lists a total of 548 restaurants across California, covering as many as 55 different cuisine types.
This showcases the state’s dynamic culinary scene, which embraces everything from classical French techniques to modern Californian fusion, Asian-inspired dishes, farm-to-table concepts, and more.
California’s ethnically rich and innovative food culture attracts chefs and food enthusiasts alike, bolstered by diverse local ingredients and a culture of creativity.
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7. Exploring California’s Best Michelin-Starred Dining Experiences
Whether you seek the ultimate gastronomic journey or a unique, approachable meal, California's Michelin-starred restaurants provide a spectrum of exceptional offerings.
From the coastal delights of San Diego’s Addison to the iconic finesse of The French Laundry in Napa Valley's Yountville, to bold and inventive spots like Somni and Atelier Crenn in San Francisco, there’s something to captivate every palate.
Many Michelin-starred chefs emphasize sustainability and local sourcing, aligning culinary excellence with environmental responsibility.
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8. Planning Your Visit to California’s Michelin-Starred Restaurants
Due to their popularity and acclaim, reservations at Michelin-starred restaurants can be competitive and often require advance booking.
Many establishments may have specific requirements or seasonal menus, so checking the latest details before visiting is advisable.
Exploring a range of Michelin restaurants can be an enriching experience—whether indulging in a three-star tasting menu or trying inspired one-star locations for a more casual yet refined meal.
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Additional Resources for California Michelin Star Restaurant Enthusiasts
- Michelin Guide Official Website
- Visit California
- California Department of Public Health
- California Department of Food and Agriculture
- California Restaurant Association
How Many Michelin Star Restaurants in California: Conclusion
California's 87 Michelin-starred restaurants in 2025 underscore the state's role as a culinary leader offering unmatched diversity and quality.
From the prestigious three-star icons to innovative newcomers, California's food scene continues to evolve while embracing sustainability and accessibility.
This ever-growing landscape invites food lovers to explore an array of outstanding dining experiences across vibrant cities and picturesque regions alike.
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