Taking a family out to a sit-down restaurant makes your wallet feel lighter. If you have a larger family, sometimes it’s best just to say no for the sake of your budget. However, when it comes to restaurants, Olive Garden can be a family-friendly place to take your kids. The atmosphere is very kid-friendly, not to mention it’s possible to feed a family for a reasonable price. Take a look at the 22 best deals for families at Olive Garden. With these deals, you can find delicious meals for $20 or less apiece.

Unlimited Breadsticks and Salad

• Breadsticks start at $4.49
• Jumbo House Salad and Breadsticks $22.99

One of the best deals for families at Olive Garden is their unlimited breadsticks and salad. You don’t have to order anything else at this restaurant, and you’d still walk away feeling full and satisfied.

Ravioli Carbonara

• $18.29

Keep it simple with cheese ravioli topped with bacon and baked with creamy sauces. Add chicken frittata, sauteed shrimp, or even grilled chicken for an extra cost to dress it up.

Lasagna Classico

• $18.49

Do you love classic lasagna? Then, you’ll enjoy the lasagna classico with plenty of delicious layering and complimentary flavors.

Spaghetti and Meatballs

• $16.78

You can never go wrong with the classic spaghetti and meatballs. This meal is great for splitting with a child or eating alone.

Spaghetti with Meat Sauce or Marinara

• $12.99

If you aren’t a fan of meatballs but love spaghetti, you can get it even cheaper.

6 oz. Sirloin

• $19.99

Just because it’s an Italian restaurant doesn’t mean you can’t have some steak. The juicy 6 oz. Sirloin comes with fettuccine alfredo, which makes a very filling meal.

Four-Cheese Manicotti

• $12.99

If simple is what you love, then try this four-cheese manicotti. This dish comes with three cheese-filled manicotti pasta. Then, on top of these noodles are marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese. It can’t get simpler than that.

Eggplant Parmigiana

• $17.49

Parmigiana isn’t just reserved for chicken; you can also get an eggplant parmigiana. Served like the chicken, this meal comes with spaghetti and is covered with marinara and mozzarella cheese.

Five Cheese Ziti al Forno

• $17.99

This large dish comes with ziti pasta covered in a five-cheese marinara. While you can eat this alone, it’s also a great meal to split with someone.

Cheese Ravioli

• $17.29

Do you love ravioli? The classic cheese ravioli is perfect for those who can’t get enough Italian carbs.

Three-Meat Manicotti

• $16.49

The three-meat manicotti is very similar to the four cheeses. However, it also includes three types of meat. These are Italian sausage, pepperoni, and chopped-up meatballs.

Fettuccine Alfredo

• $16.49

You can order just the fettuccine and sauce for slightly less than the chicken fettuccine alfredo. This is an ideal dish for anyone who doesn’t like meat or just wants pasta.

Weekday Lunch Special Soup, Salad, and Breadsticks

• $9.49

If you visit Olive Garden on a weekday between 11-2:30 p.m., you’ll get a delicious deal for under $10. Fill up on the delicious salad, breadsticks, and homemade soup.

Homemade Soups

• $8.49

For $8.49, you can order one of the tasty homemade soups. Chose from:

• Toscana
• Minestrone
• Pasta e Fagioli
• Chicken and Gnocchi

Each of the homemade soups comes with an order of two breadsticks.

Create Your Own Pasta

• $12.99

For only $12.99, you can create your very own pasta dish. Choose what type of pasta you want with choices such as angel hair or rigatoni. Then, decide what sauce you want and if you want a topping. Now you have a delicious pasta dish all your own.

The Lunch Menu

If you come before 3 p.m. on the weekday, check out Olive Garden’s lunch menu. On it, you will find the classic entrees for a cheaper price. These include the following lunches:

• Chicken Parmigiana $11.49
• Fettuccine Alfredo $10.49
• Shrimp Scampi $11.49
• Spaghetti $10.49
• Eggplant Parmigiana $10.49
• Soup Salad and Breadsticks $9.49

Kids Meals

• Starting at $6.99

Most kid’s meals at Olive Garden start at $6.99, slightly more than at McDonald’s. If your child is under 12, then they have a good selection to choose from. This includes your Italian classics like cheese, ravioli, and spaghetti. You also have your kid’s favorites, such as macaroni and cheese or chicken tenders.

Family Style Meals

Family-style meals aren’t under $20. However, each serving size will reach under $20 if you have a large family. Ordering a family-style meal that feeds four to six people may be cheaper in the long run.

You can choose from shrimp alfredo, chicken parmigiana, spaghetti, or even lasagna.

One Last Note

Olive Garden is a top choice if you are looking for a nice place to take your family, whether for lunch or a celebration. Although it can be expensive to feed a family, especially if you have a large one, this family-friendly restaurant has many options. These 22 meals are the best deals for families at Olive Garden. You can enjoy your meal and your family and keep it under budget.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©"'Olive Garden'" by JeepersMedia is licensed under BY 2.0..

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Are you a fan of Costco? This popular wholesale store is one of the top places families flock to in order to stock up on groceries for a competitive price. Not to mention, you can feed your entire family at the food court on your way out for likely less than $15. The next time you head to this popular shopping warehouse, try one of these nine Costco cult favorites.

Costco History

The history of Costco Wholesale began in 1972 when the first location opened. Costco was the merger of two wholesale companies, the first of which was Price Club.

The Price Club was created as a place for small businesses. However, the idea to sell to members who weren’t necessarily businesses was born. It wasn’t too long after, in 1983, that the first Costco Wholesale opened up. Then, after both companies continued to grow and succeed, they merged in 1993 to create what we now know and love as Costco Wholesale.

Why is Costco so Popular?

For a good reason: Costco is one of the most popular Wholesale companies worldwide. Costco aims to give its customers excellent deals with the best value. This is why they only keep around 4,000 SKUs in the store.

Costco carries unique bulk deals that give you the best bang for your buck. Furthermore, while walking around with your family, you can try Costco’s quick and tasty samples throughout the store. More reasons people love Costco include:

• The food court
• Return policy
• Competitive prices
• The consistent quality of products
• Cheap gas
• Wide range of items, including food, electronics, and even apparel

9 Best Cult Favorites You Need to Buy at Costco

When you go to Costco, there are so many cult favorites that you absolutely must try. However, time and time again, the products on this list are the most popular. Here are the nine best cult favorites you need to buy at Costco.

Shelled Pistachios

The Kirkland shelled pistachios come in a 1.5-pound bag. They are roasted & salted, which adds to the addicting flavor. At Costco, you can get this 1.5-pound bag for $16.99. Additionally, this buy is a healthier choice as well. The pistachios are trans-fat-free and cholesterol-free. For a quick and easy snack, these shelled pistachios are a must.

Organic Maple Syrup

The Kirkland brand sells these enormous tubs of maple syrup for less than $15. The rich flavor and being a bulk item made this maple syrup a fast favorite. It’s hard to beat a rich syrup slathered over your pancakes any day of the week.

Sanders Sea Salt Caramels

Sanders’ sea salt caramels may seem on the pricy side; after all, this product goes for around $36.99 for a 36-ounce two-pack. However, once you bite into these caramel goodies, you realize how worth the price tag is.

The sea salt caramels perfectly combine salty and rich caramel flavors. Which makes them the perfect after-dinner treat.

Peanut Butter Pretzels

If you are a fan of pretzels and peanut butter, why not combine the two? For around $11.99, you can buy a 55-ounce package The pretzels are full of protein and carbs and can be addictive! They make a perfect little snack that gives you an afternoon pick-me-up when you need energy.

Kirkland Signature Milk Chocolate Almonds

Making a beeline straight for the Kirkland signature almonds as soon as you walk through the doors of Costco is always a good idea. This three-pound pack of almonds is a cult favorite. The almonds are perfectly roasted, and the milk chocolate complements the flavor of a tee. But be warned, they can be pretty addicting!

Sheet Cake

The sheet cakes at Costco have earned the title of cult favorite for a reason. So much so that they are often bought and used for weddings; these tasty quarter sheet cakes are a dessert for important occasions like birthdays.

The 2-ounce cake totals 3.5 pounds and comes with 14 pre-cut slices. The delicate flavor and the convenience make the price worth it for many.

Pumpkin Pie

Speaking of desserts, Costco’s pumpkin pie is a hit every fall. This cult favorite only makes an appearance every fall season. It has become so popular that customers rush to grab one before they sell out every season. This pie freezes perfectly and has delicious spices, including nutmeg and cinnamon.

For $5.99, customers can grab this 58-ounce pumpkin pie and be an instant hit at any holiday party.

Just Bare Chicken Nuggets

Does your child live on chicken nuggets? Finding the best brand, especially for your buck, can be challenging. However, Just Bare Chicken Nuggets deserves the title of top chicken nuggets. Even as an adult, you will find these tasty chicken nuggets are addictive and so tasty. They have no added hormones, steroids, or antibiotics. The four-pound resealable bag makes it easier to grab what you want and freeze the rest.

Utz Cheese Balls

Healthy? No. Addictive and tasty? Yes. The 36-ounce barrel of cheese balls makes a yummy snack for kids and adults alike. While it’s not necessarily a healthy snack, these cheese balls are gluten-free and made with real cheese.

One Last Note

Costco is a favorite of many people for good reason. Buying snacks, meat, drinks, and many more items in bulk is convenient. Furthermore, buying in bulk can improve your wallet in the long run. So, if you are a member of Costco and want to try something new, give these nine cult favorites a chance.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©Juan Llauro/Shutterstock.com.

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The 1970s was a decade of innovation and change, bringing advancements in technology like cell phones, video games, and computers as well as bold fashion trends such as bell bottoms and platform shoes. It was also a time of evolving tastes in food and music. Alongside these cultural shifts, a wave of new businesses and restaurants emerged across the country, each using unique gimmicks and marketing strategies to attract customers.

It seemed as though new eateries were emerging almost everywhere. Finding a restaurant that served your favorite foods close to home wasn’t too hard. Still, while many restaurants during this decade were successful, they didn’t always last long. Most of these classic ’70s restaurants are either just a memory or are on there way to becoming one.

Howard Johnson’s

For a long time, Howard Johnson’s was one of the most recognizable restaurants in the country. This famous orange-roofed restaurant was everywhere, with over 1,000 locations across the country. There was a huge menu in each restaurant that had something for everyone, including fried clams and 28 ice cream flavors. Sadly, though this was one of the most famous 1970s restaurants, it only lasted until 1979.

That’s when Marriott bought the company, and they proceeded to shut down all company-owned Howard Johnson’s locations. Soon after, the franchise restaurants closed, and the rest was history. Most recently, the restaurant was made famous for being on episodes of “Mad Men.”

Burger Chef

If the name Burger Chef reminds you of McDonalds then that makes sense. After all, during its heyday, Burger Chef was the second most popular restaurant, second only to Micky D’s. Like its competitor, Burger Chef locations were all over the United States.

Their most noteworthy burger was the Big Shef, which was a double cheeseburger with a special sauce. The company was eventually purchased by the company that owns Hardees. The chain started to die off in the 1980s, and the last Burger Chef restaurant closed in 1996.

Sambo’s

Sambo’s is one of the 1970s restaurants that doesn’t exist anymore, and that’s mostly because of its theme. The restaurant was named after the character Sambo, and the walls were covered with Sambo artwork and decorations. The problem was the book the restaurant was based on, “The Story of Little Sambo” which is widely considered to be racist.

During the 1970s, that fact didn’t seem to hurt the franchise much, as they had over 1,000 restaurants by 1979. Still, the name caught up with them and they ended up filing for bankruptcy in 1981 and closing all restaurants. There is one left standing, but they are changing their name, so Sambo’s will officially be dead.

Taco Viva

Before Taco Bell became the most popular option for quick Mexican food, Taco Viva was the place to go. Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, this franchise grew from humble beginnings, and by the end of its run, there were 85 restaurants in 11 different states. Like Taco Bell, the sign and building was immediately recognizable, and it was a great place go to. However, like many other fast-food taco joints, it soon met its end.

Lums

It’s amazing how a major restaurant can grow from humble beginnings, and that’s exactly what happened with Lums. The restaurant began as just a single hot dog stand in Florida. However, with hard work and dedication, the company was able to grow by leaps and bounds and had 400 franchises across the country.

Their claim to fame was the frosted glass beers, fried seafood, and beer-steamed hot dogs. They were doing well during the 1970s but decided to sell the restaurants late into the decade. By 1983, all but one restaurant had closed, with the last one closing in 2017.

Gino’s Hamburgers

The Marriott company was busy during the 1970s. In addition to purchasing Howard Johnson’s, they also claimed Gino’s Hamburgers, which was started by a couple of NFL players in Baltimore. This was a very meat-focused restaurant and their most famous burger was the Sirloiner, which was two buns and thick sirloin steak.

Throughout the 1970s, the restaurant ruled the East Coast and they were on their way to the Midwest when they were purchased by Marriott, who turned all the locations into Roy Rogers restaurants instead. While the restaurant chain is not as popular as it once was, there are still two Gino’s Burgers locations in Maryland as of 2024.

Naugles

Naugles was another of the go-to Mexican food chain restaurants that started in 1970 and then gained steam during that decade and beyond. The chain started in Riverside, California, but they quickly began to expand to other states, from Nevada to Florida. The beginning of the end occurred when Naugles merged with Del Taco. By 1995, all Naugles were converted to Del Taco, and that was it for the popular chain.

Steak and Ale

One of the most beloved of the 1970s restaurants was Steak and Ale. It was an old-school-looking restaurant that served steak at a great price. Plus, they had an unlimited salad bar and tasty dishes, including the herb-roasted prime rib. Steak and Ale combined forces with another restaurant in 1976 and grew to over 100 locations.

As the restaurant headed into the 80s, the chain changed ownership many times, and that’s never good for business. Although there are no Steak and Ale restaurants left, you can still purchase a franchise restaurant today if you’re up to reviving the chain.

Burger Queen

New restaurant owners are always trying to get ideas from existing franchises, and that was the case for Burger Queen. It was supposed to be an unofficial combination of Diary Queen and Burger King, and it began in Florida in 1956. They served burgers, shakes, and fries. From the 50s till the end of the 70s, Burger Queen was doing pretty good.

Then, in 1981, they changed their name to Druther’s because they started also serving salad and fried chicken. They reached about 170 restaurants but then decided to sell to Dairy Queen. They converted the restaurants, and thus, Burger Queen is no more.

Rax Roast Beef

These days, Arby’s is one of the biggest restaurants around when it comes to the finest roast beef sandwiches. However, before Arby’s, there was Rax Roast Beef. The chain began in Ohio in 1967 and served the finest roast beef sandwiches in the state.

They were so good that they expanded to 38 other states and had over 500 restaurants. However, while the chain has mostly died, it hasn’t been completely wiped from the face of the earth — there are still five locations left.

Wags

Things were pretty crazy back in the 1970s when stores did things you just don’t see anymore. One of them was when the famous Walgreens pharmacy decided to launch its own restaurant chain. Since Walgreens is open late, they wanted to have a 24-hour restaurant chain where families could eat at all times of the day and night.

Then, when they were done, they could do some shopping in the drugstore. However, once again, Marriott struck and bought the restaurants. Eventually, Marriott decided to get out of the restaurant game, and when Wags couldn’t find an owner, the eatery went bye-bye.

Pup ‘N’ Taco

If you were a youngster living in California in the 1970s, you likely ate at a Pup ‘N’ Taco at least once. This was a tasty restaurant where you could get a variety of dishes, including tacos, pastrami sandwiches, and tostadas, among other interesting items. They also had a huge variety of very tasty hot dogs. 

The chain began in 1956, and by the 1980s, there were over 100 locations. However, it was around then that a newer restaurant, Taco Bell, was dominating the scene, and they were just too big. Pup ‘N’ Taco could not compete. Taco Bell ended up purchasing all of the Pup ‘N’ Taco locations in 1984.

Red Barn

The Red Barn restaurants were not hard to spot during the 1960s and 1970s. Most of the establishments looked like an actual red barn in the middle of a city atmosphere. The chain had meager beginnings in the 1960s in Ohio but soon grew by leaps and bounds. During the 70s, there were over 400 locations in 22 states.

Some of their signature dishes included their Barnbuster and Big Barney burgers, which were quite delicious. However, the chain met its demise like so many others do. During the late 1970s, the chain started to change owners and then it was sold a few times, and inevitably, the stores all closed by the 1980s.

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The United States has an incredible variety of restaurants in almost every type of cuisine and every price range imaginable. From French, Italian, and Chinese, to Japanese, Mexican, Brazilian, and much more, you can dine around the world in just one city. Another big part of American culture is the chain restaurant, which is not something unique to inexpensive dining.

While many chains are known for their affordability and kid-friendly environments, others are synonymous with luxury and high-priced fare. The food may be outstanding, but the prices are just a bit too high. In this article, we dive into 10 overpriced restaurant chains that will make your wallet cry.

1. Joël Robuchon

Renowned French chef Joël Robuchon has over 20 restaurants in America, Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa. Through his culinary career, he accumulated a total of 32 Michelin Guide stars. He coached many famous chefs, including Eric Ripert, Gordon Ramsay, and Michael Caines.

Joël Robuchon passed away on the 6^th of August 2018 at the age of 73 and is considered one of the greatest chefs of all time. Their menus feature Burgundy truffle tartlets, Key West shrimp, Maine lobster, Wagyu beef, Cappellini pasta with sea urchin, rabbit, and more. To give you an idea, lunch is approximately $89 for a 3-course meal and $155 for a 4-course meal per person.

In addition, there are tasting menus with 12 courses, which can cost approximately $500, and tasting courses with wine pairing that can cost almost $2000 or more per person. Keep in mind that most of these prices do not include drinks and taxes. Prices vary depending on the location.

2. Gordon Ramsay

With over 80 restaurants worldwide, Gordon Ramsay has become a culinary chef legend. From bustling street burgers, bread street kitchens, street pizza, food on the go at airports, pubs and grills, food markets, fish and chips, Hell’s Kitchen, Ramsay steak, and more. You can experience a unique dining adventure at any of Gordon Ramsay’s restaurants.

Gordon Ramsay began his culinary adventure at a young age and has traveled the world and learned about various cultures and their cuisines. He has taken all that he has acquired knowledge in and put everything into practice in his culinary businesses.

Prices vary by location, and depending on the menu and meal, your dining experience can cost approximately $150 to $300 per person. Furthermore, festive meals like Christmas dining can cost over $1300 per person for a seven-course meal. 

3. Thomas Keller

Thomas Keller is a famous American cookbook author, chef, and restaurateur. He has won many awards from the James Beard Foundation. In 1996 he won Best California Chef, and in 1997 he won Best American Chef.

His culinary skills have exceptionally high standards, making his restaurant chains way too expensive. However, visiting one of Thomas Keller’s restaurants would be worthwhile if you can afford fine dining.

Experience the delectable chef-tasting menu that features oysters and pearls, sautéed fillet of Atlantic striped bass, sweet butter poached Santa Barbara spiny lobster, Pekin duck, charcoal-grilled Japanese Wagyu, and more. Depending on the menu, you can expect to pay anywhere from $390 per person, excluding drinks and tax.

4. Nobu

If you want to dine like Miley Cyrus and the Kardashians, then eating Japanese cuisine with Peruvian ingredients at Nobu is the place to go. Nobu Matsuhisa opened his first homonymous restaurant, Matsuhisa, in 1987 when he moved to Los Angeles. In 1988, Robert De Niro visited the restaurant and became a regular customer.

He suggested to Matsuhisa to open a restaurant in New York City; however, he declined the offer. In 1994, Robert De Niro suggested the idea again, and Matsuhisa agreed. Matsushisa, restaurateur Drew Nieporent, Robert De Niro, and investor Meir Teper agreed to a partnership. Today there are 56 restaurants and 36 hotels, and Nobu’s signature dish is black cod with miso. The average check at Nobu is approximately $135 per person.

5. Fogo de Chão

This Brazilian food chain, translated as “Ground Fire,” was founded by brothers Jair and Arri Coser in 1979 and specializes in Southern Brazilian fare. If you are feeling hungry and enjoy a decent variety of meat, then you should try Fogo de Chão. There are over 70 locations, and they serve à la carte, buffet, or a full churrasco, which includes servings of fire-roasted lamb, chicken, beef, pork, and other meats.

Lighter dining options, such as Gaucho lunch and seafood options, are also available. There’s something for everyone at Fogo. Finally, you’re looking at about $70 per person for all-you-can-eat meat, side dishes, and a salad bar. Next to the salad bar is the Market table, which is filled with Brazilian staples, dips, colorful specialty salads, and more. This does not include gratuities, drinks, or taxes.

6. Mr Chow

With seven locations in London, Beverly Hills, New York — Tribeca, New York — 57th Street, Miami, Las Vegas, and Riyadh, you can enjoy upscale Chinese cuisine. Over the past few years, Mr Chow has served popular celebrities including Drew Barrymore, Simon Cowell, Steven Segal, and more.

Mr Chow offers signature dishes like Beijing duck, steamed seabass, fresh lobster, and squid ink rice noodles. At this 5-Star Diamond Award-winning restaurant, you can expect to pay anywhere from $102 to $120 per person for a Semi Prix Fixe dinner. In addition, their menu also features specialty cocktails and an extensive wine list.

7. Mortons the Steakhouse

Co-founded in 1978 by Arnie Morton and Klaus Fritsch, Mortons the Steakhouse has 72 locations in the United States and 8 franchised internationally. These two men worked together in Canada at the Playboy Club before joining up. One day Fritsch made Morton a hamburger, and he was so impressed that they opened their first business in Chicago.

Their menu features prime steak and delicious seafood. They serve the best USDA prime-aged beef. However, your dining experience can bring you the best of both land and sea, featuring oysters, red king crab legs, and Chilean sea bass.

Experience fine dining lunch with lobster, prime pork chop, Christopher chicken, or smoked gouda and bacon au gratin. Choose between a silver, gold, platinum, or diamond dinner menu. The price range per person is approximately $160 excluding drinks and taxes.

8. The Palm 

This international fine-dining steakhouse chain restaurant in America first began in 1926. Today there are over 30 locations throughout the United States, Mexico, and Puerto Rico. The Palm specializes in traditional Italian dishes, steak, and lobster.

It also features caricatures of celebrities on its walls, which guests can admire. They have a wide range of wine, cocktails, and signature drinks to choose from. At The Palm, you’re looking at paying approximately $120 to $200 plus per person for your dining experience. 

9. Smith & Wollensky

Founded in 1977 by Alan Stillman, there are 10 Smith & Wollensky locations. These locations are in New York, Chicago, Miami Beach, Las Vegas, Columbus, Houston, Massachusetts, London, Taipei, Taichung, and their new branch in Burlington.

The restaurant’s trademark colors are white and green, and many of the restaurants have a wooden exterior.

Smith & Wollensky is a well-known steakhouse chain serving USDA Prime dry-aged meat that is perfectly marbled and posh seafood dishes. Furthermore, there are also platters suitable for 2–6 people.

Approximate menu prices per person vary per location, excluding drinks.

• Lunch: $110
• Dinner: $200
• Dessert: $15

10. Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steakhouse

Founded in 1981, Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steakhouse was operated by Del Frisco’s Restaurant Group. In September 2019, the restaurant was acquired by Landry’s Inc. and has 71 locations across the United States of America. You can experience fine dining from Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steakhouse in Atlanta, Boston, Charlotte, Dallas, Denver, Los Angeles, New York, and more. 

Proper attire is required, so that means no jeans, hoodies, beanies, beach wear, gym clothing, or sleeveless shirts. Their menus feature delicious salads with steak, lobster, and octopus. Handhelds include hamburgers, lobster rolls, and Wagyu cheese steak. Entrées include salmon, chicken, and fillet. There is so much to choose from, and the menus look fantastic.

You can look at paying approximately the following minimum per person, excluding tax and drinks:

• Lunch: $74
• Main Meal: $300
• Dessert: $15

Finally, festive meals are typically priced from $195 per person. These 10 restaurant chains that are way too expensive can offer you an elegant fine dining experience if you can afford it. However, you can still create a fine dining experience at home with the array of recipes on our website. Take a look at our 20 potato side dishes, smothered pork chops, and roast beef with garlic.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©ValentynVolkov / Getty Images.

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Florida is known for many things, from the Everglades and Miami Beach to the Keys and Kennedy Space Center, and of course it’s most notable attraction–Disney World–but the Sunshine State is more than incredible attractions. After you’re done seeing the sites and getting your fill of sunshine, you’ll want to find a delicious dining destination and knowing where to go can be tricky. But we have you covered and with these 10 must-try Florida restaurants with James Beard recognition, you can’t go wrong.

We’ve compiled a list of James Beard award-winning and honorable-mention restaurants in the Sunshine State that we’re confident you’ll love. The first four listed have won the prestigious award are winners followed by six honorable mentions that everyone should visit at least once.

Michael’s Genuine Food and Drink

A local favorite in Miami, Michael’s Genuine Food and Drink is an award-winning restaurant for good reason. Chef Michael Schwartz is known for serving comfort food in a refined way.

Joe’s Stone Crab

We love seafood, and so do Florida residents and visitors. Joe’s Stone Crab in Miami is a local favorite that gained popularity from its famous crab, key lime pie, and other dishes.

Versailles

When Miami residents find a stellar Cuban restaurant, they often frequent it. Versailles is one such eatery serving authentic Cuban food. You’ll want to visit it repeatedly.

Michy’s

With a name like Chef Michelle Bernstein, you know you’re going to get a superior dining experience. This Miami restaurant may have won the James Beard award, but it has since closed and reopened as a new fried chicken concept called Michy’s Kitchen owned and operated by the same talented chef, and it is definitely worth a try.

Itamae Miami

This popular spot was a semifinalist, and for good reason. Unlike other restaurants, Itamae offers a multi-course unconventional Omakase at a 10-seat counter in Miami. Needless to say, if you want to dine here, you’ll have to plan ahead.

Yardbird Southern Table & Bar

If you live in Miami or have visited, you’ve most likely heard of Yardbird. They are known for their inventive food and Southern comfort vibe. However, if you can only have one meal here, we recommend brunch. You can’t miss it!

The Katherine

Heading slightly north in Fort Lauderdale is The Katherine. Its unassuming name surprises diners when they experience a menu that includes flavors from all over the world. It’s an intimate spot that will become your next favorite.

Cafe Boulud

As one of the top French restaurants in Palm Beach and arguably the state, Cafe Boulud is renowned for its delectable offerings. Located in the historic Brazilian Court, stop at this location if you’re ever in Palm Beach.

Buccan Palm Beach

You don’t want to sleep on this upscale yet approachable eatery. Chef Clay Conley has made this popular restaurant what it is today: a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Take note: reservations are highly recommended.

Stage Kitchen & Bar Palm Beach Gardens

Last but not least, Stage Kitchen & Bar in Palm Beach Gardens has gained its reputation for good reason. Not only will the food take you on a culinary adventure with its diverse, global menu, but the ambiance will have you frequenting this always-packed eatery.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©In Green/Shutterstock.com.

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The 1970s were filled with bold trends, from disco and platform shoes to the popularity of fondue dinner parties. It was also a time when restaurants embraced creativity, using unique themes and gimmicks to draw in customers. Dining options were plentiful, catering to a variety of tastes and preferences. While some restaurants thrived during the decade, many couldn’t sustain their success, eventually fading into history. Here’s a look at some once-popular restaurants that have since disappeared.

Howard Johnson’s

For a long time, Howard Johnson’s was one of the most recognizable restaurants in the country. This famous orange-roofed restaurant was everywhere, with over 1,000 locations across the country. There was a huge menu in each restaurant that had something for everyone, including fried clams and 28 ice cream flavors.

Sadly, though this was one of the most famous 1970s restaurants, they only lasted until 1979. That’s when Marriott bought the company, and they proceeded to shut down all company-owned Howard Johnson’s locations. Soon after, the franchise restaurants closed, and the rest was history. Most recently, the restaurant was made famous for being on episodes of “Mad Men.”

Burger Chef

If the name Burger Chef reminds you of McDonalds then that makes sense. After all, during its heyday, Burger Chef was the second most popular restaurant, second only to Micky D’s. Like its competitor, Burger Chef locations were all over the United States.

Their most noteworthy burger was the Big Shef, which was a double cheeseburger with special sauce. The company was eventually purchased by the company that owns Hardees. The chain started to die off in the 1980s, and the last Burger Chef restaurant closed in 1996.

Sambo’s

Sambo’s is one of the 1970s restaurants that doesn’t exist anymore, and that’s mostly because of its theme. The resturant was named after the character Sambo, and the walls were covered with Sambo artwork and decorations. The problem was the book the restaurant was based off of, “The Story of Little Sambo” is widely considered to be racist. During the 1970s, that fact didn’t seem to hurt the franchise much, as they had over 1,000 restaurants by 1979.

Still, the name caught up with them and they ended up filing for bankruptcy in 1981 and closing all restaurants. There is one left standing, but they are changing their name, so Sambo’s will officially be dead.

Taco Viva

Before Taco Bell became the most popular option for quick Mexican food, Taco Viva was the place to go. Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, this franchise grew from humble beginnings, and by the end of its run, there were 85 restaurants in 11 different states. Like Taco Bell, the sign and building was immediately recognizable, and it was a great place go to. However, like many other fast food taco joints, it soon met its end.

Lums

It’s amazing how a major restaurant can grow from humble beginnings, and that’s exactly what happened with Lums. The restaurant began as just a single hot dog stand in Florida. However, with hard work and dedication, the company was able to grow by leaps and bounds and had 400 franchises across the country.

They’re claim to fame was the frosted glass beers, fried seafood, and beer-steamed hot dogs. They were doing well during the 1970s but decided to sell the restaurants late into the decade. By 1983, all but one restaurant had closed, with the last one closing in 2017.

Gino’s Hamburgers

The Marriott company was busy during the 1970s. In addition to purchasing Howard Johnson’s, they also claimed Gino’s Hamburgers, which was started by a couple of NFL players in Baltimore. This was a very meat-focused restaurant and their most famous burger was the Sirloiner, which was two buns and thick sirloin steak.

Throughout the 1970s, the restaurant ruled the East Coast and they were on their way to the Midwest when they were purchased by Marriott, who turned all the locations into Roy Rogers restaurants instead. While the restaurant chain is not as popular as it once was, there are still two Gino’s Burgers locations in Maryland as of 2024.

Naugles

Naugles was another of the go-to Mexican food chain restaurants that started in 1970 and then gained steam during that decade and beyond. The chain started in Riverside, California, but they quickly began to expand to other states, from Nevada to Florida. The beginning of the end occurred when Naugles merged with Del Taco. By 1995, all Naugles were converted to Del Taco, and that was it for the popular chain.

Steak and Ale

One of the most beloved of the 1970s restaurants was Steak and Ale. It was an old-school-looking restaurant that served steak at a great price. Plus, they had an unlimited salad bar and tasty dishes, including the herb-roasted prime rib. Steak and Ale combined forces with another restaurant in 1976 and grew to over 100 locations.

As the restaurant headed into the 80s, the chain changed ownership many times, and that’s never good for business. Although there are no Steak and Ale restaurants left, you can still purchase a franchise restaurant today if you’re up to reviving the chain.

Burger Queen

New restaurant owners are always trying to get ideas from existing franchises, and that was the case for Burger Queen. It was supposed to be an unofficial combination of Diary Queen and Burger King, and it began in Florida in 1956. They served burgers, shakes, and fries. From the 50s till the end of the 70s, Burger Queen was doing pretty good.

Then, in 1981, they changed their name to Druther’s because they started also serving salad and fried chicken. They reached about 170 restaurants but then decided to sell to Dairy Queen. They converted the restaurants, and thus, Burger Queen is no more.

Rax Roast Beef

These days, Arby’s is one of the biggest restaurants around when it comes to the finest roast beef sandwiches. However, before Arby’s, there was Rax Roast Beef. The chain began in Ohio in 1967 and served the finest roast beef sandwiches in the state. They were so good that they expanded to 38 other states and had over 500 restaurants. However, while the chain has mostly died, it hasn’t been completely wiped from the face of the earth — there are still five locations left.

Wags

Things were pretty crazy back in the 1970s when stores did things you just don’t see anymore. One of them was when the famous Walgreens pharmacy decided to launch its own restaurant chain. Since Walgreens is open late, they wanted to have a 24-hour restaurant chain where families could eat at all times of the day and night.

Then, when they were done, they could do some shopping in the drugstore. However, once again, Marriott struck and bought the restaurants. Eventually, Marriott decided to get out of the restaurant game, and when Wags couldn’t find an owner, the eatery went bye-bye.

Pup ‘N’ Taco

If you were a youngster living in California in the 1970s, you likely ate at a Pup ‘N’ Taco at least once. This was a tasty restaurant where you could get a variety of dishes, including tacos, pastrami sandwiches, and tostadas, among other interesting items. They also had a huge variety of very tasty hot dogs. 

The chain began in 1956, and by the 1980s, there were over 100 locations. However, it was around then that a newer restaurant, Taco Bell, was dominating the scene, and they were just too big. Pup ‘N’ Taco could not compete. Taco Bell ended up purchasing all of the Pup ‘N’ Taco locations in 1984.

Red Barn

The Red Barn restaurants were not hard to spot during the 1960s and 1970s. Most of the establishments looked like an actual red barn in the middle of a city atmosphere. The chain had meager beginnings in the 1960s in Ohio but soon grew by leaps and bounds. During the 70s, there were over 400 locations in 22 states.

Some of their signature dishes included their Barnbuster and Big Barney burgers, which were quite delicious. However, the chain met its demise like so many others do. During the late 1970s, the chain started to change owners and then it was sold a few times, and inevitably, the stores all closed by the 1980s.

The post Iconic 1970s Restaurants That Faded Away appeared first on Moms Who Think.

Every decade is known for certain distinguishing markers that occurred during that specific time and the ’70s were no exception. It was a time of change that saw many new technological discoveries, including cell phones, computers, and video games, and fashion, from bell bottoms to platform shoes to wrap dresses. The social and political climate was tense, with the Watergate scandal and the Civil Rights movement, but it was also a time for various trends and fads, including many classic dining spots.

The ’70s saw a wave of new businesses and restaurants opening around the country and finding a restaurant that served your favorite foods close to home wasn’t too hard. Still, while many restaurants during this decade were successful, they didn’t always last long. Most of these classic dining spots of the ’70s no longer exist or are on there way there.

Howard Johnson’s

For a long time, Howard Johnson’s was one of the most recognizable restaurants in the country. This famous orange-roofed restaurant was everywhere, with over 1,000 locations across the country. There was a huge menu in each restaurant that had something for everyone, including fried clams and 28 ice cream flavors. Sadly, though this was one of the most famous 1970s restaurants, it only lasted until 1979.

That’s when Marriott bought the company, and they proceeded to shut down all company-owned Howard Johnson’s locations. Soon after, the franchise restaurants closed, and the rest was history. Most recently, the restaurant was made famous for being on episodes of “Mad Men.”

Burger Chef

If the name Burger Chef reminds you of McDonalds then that makes sense. After all, during its heyday, Burger Chef was the second most popular restaurant, second only to Micky D’s. Like its competitor, Burger Chef locations were all over the United States.

Their most noteworthy burger was the Big Shef, which was a double cheeseburger with a special sauce. The company was eventually purchased by the company that owns Hardees. The chain started to die off in the 1980s, and the last Burger Chef restaurant closed in 1996.

Sambo’s

Sambo’s is one of the 1970s restaurants that doesn’t exist anymore, and that’s mostly because of its theme. The restaurant was named after the character Sambo, and the walls were covered with Sambo artwork and decorations. The problem was the book the restaurant was based on, “The Story of Little Sambo” which is widely considered to be racist.

During the 1970s, that fact didn’t seem to hurt the franchise much, as they had over 1,000 restaurants by 1979. Still, the name caught up with them and they ended up filing for bankruptcy in 1981 and closing all restaurants. There is one left standing, but they are changing their name, so Sambo’s will officially be dead.

Taco Viva

Before Taco Bell became the most popular option for quick Mexican food, Taco Viva was the place to go. Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, this franchise grew from humble beginnings, and by the end of its run, there were 85 restaurants in 11 different states. Like Taco Bell, the sign and building was immediately recognizable, and it was a great place go to. However, like many other fast-food taco joints, it soon met its end.

Lums

It’s amazing how a major restaurant can grow from humble beginnings, and that’s exactly what happened with Lums. The restaurant began as just a single hot dog stand in Florida. However, with hard work and dedication, the company was able to grow by leaps and bounds and had 400 franchises across the country.

Their claim to fame was the frosted glass beers, fried seafood, and beer-steamed hot dogs. They were doing well during the 1970s but decided to sell the restaurants late into the decade. By 1983, all but one restaurant had closed, with the last one closing in 2017.

Gino’s Hamburgers

The Marriott company was busy during the 1970s. In addition to purchasing Howard Johnson’s, they also claimed Gino’s Hamburgers, which was started by a couple of NFL players in Baltimore. This was a very meat-focused restaurant and their most famous burger was the Sirloiner, which was two buns and thick sirloin steak.

Throughout the 1970s, the restaurant ruled the East Coast and they were on their way to the Midwest when they were purchased by Marriott, who turned all the locations into Roy Rogers restaurants instead. While the restaurant chain is not as popular as it once was, there are still two Gino’s Burgers locations in Maryland as of 2024.

Naugles

Naugles was another of the go-to Mexican food chain restaurants that started in 1970 and then gained steam during that decade and beyond. The chain started in Riverside, California, but they quickly began to expand to other states, from Nevada to Florida. The beginning of the end occurred when Naugles merged with Del Taco. By 1995, all Naugles were converted to Del Taco, and that was it for the popular chain.

Steak and Ale

One of the most beloved of the 1970s restaurants was Steak and Ale. It was an old-school-looking restaurant that served steak at a great price. Plus, they had an unlimited salad bar and tasty dishes, including the herb-roasted prime rib. Steak and Ale combined forces with another restaurant in 1976 and grew to over 100 locations.

As the restaurant headed into the 80s, the chain changed ownership many times, and that’s never good for business. Although there are no Steak and Ale restaurants left, you can still purchase a franchise restaurant today if you’re up to reviving the chain.

Burger Queen

New restaurant owners are always trying to get ideas from existing franchises, and that was the case for Burger Queen. It was supposed to be an unofficial combination of Diary Queen and Burger King, and it began in Florida in 1956. They served burgers, shakes, and fries. From the 50s till the end of the 70s, Burger Queen was doing pretty good.

Then, in 1981, they changed their name to Druther’s because they started also serving salad and fried chicken. They reached about 170 restaurants but then decided to sell to Dairy Queen. They converted the restaurants, and thus, Burger Queen is no more.

Rax Roast Beef

These days, Arby’s is one of the biggest restaurants around when it comes to the finest roast beef sandwiches. However, before Arby’s, there was Rax Roast Beef. The chain began in Ohio in 1967 and served the finest roast beef sandwiches in the state.

They were so good that they expanded to 38 other states and had over 500 restaurants. However, while the chain has mostly died, it hasn’t been completely wiped from the face of the earth — there are still five locations left.

Wags

Things were pretty crazy back in the 1970s when stores did things you just don’t see anymore. One of them was when the famous Walgreens pharmacy decided to launch its own restaurant chain. Since Walgreens is open late, they wanted to have a 24-hour restaurant chain where families could eat at all times of the day and night.

Then, when they were done, they could do some shopping in the drugstore. However, once again, Marriott struck and bought the restaurants. Eventually, Marriott decided to get out of the restaurant game, and when Wags couldn’t find an owner, the eatery went bye-bye.

Pup ‘N’ Taco

If you were a youngster living in California in the 1970s, you likely ate at a Pup ‘N’ Taco at least once. This was a tasty restaurant where you could get a variety of dishes, including tacos, pastrami sandwiches, and tostadas, among other interesting items. They also had a huge variety of very tasty hot dogs. 

The chain began in 1956, and by the 1980s, there were over 100 locations. However, it was around then that a newer restaurant, Taco Bell, was dominating the scene, and they were just too big. Pup ‘N’ Taco could not compete. Taco Bell ended up purchasing all of the Pup ‘N’ Taco locations in 1984.

Red Barn

The Red Barn restaurants were not hard to spot during the 1960s and 1970s. Most of the establishments looked like an actual red barn in the middle of a city atmosphere. The chain had meager beginnings in the 1960s in Ohio but soon grew by leaps and bounds. During the 70s, there were over 400 locations in 22 states.

Some of their signature dishes included their Barnbuster and Big Barney burgers, which were quite delicious. However, the chain met its demise like so many others do. During the late 1970s, the chain started to change owners and then it was sold a few times, and inevitably, the stores all closed by the 1980s.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©Prostock-studio/Shutterstock.com.

The post Classic Dining Spots of the ’70s That No Longer Exist appeared first on Moms Who Think.

One of the best parts of traveling is getting to experience the many different restaurants and when you head down to the Sunshine State, there’s no shortage of restaurants and activities to keep you busy. Whether you head to Miami or wander up and down the East Coast, you’ll likely find something exciting from exploring the Everglades National Park to visiting the Manatee Lagoon. And of course, you’ll need to eat. But when you’re on vacation, finding a good dining spot can be a bit tricky.

We often rely on recommendations or do extensive research to ensure we pick just the right spot and even then it doesn’t always mean we’ll pick a good one. If you’re looking for something slightly more upscale, Moms Who Think has you covered. We’ve compiled a list of top James Beard-awarded dining spots in Florida you should check out (the first four are winners followed by six honorable mentions).

Michael’s Genuine Food and Drink

A local favorite in Miami, Michael’s Genuine Food and Drink is an award-winning restaurant for good reason. Chef Michael Schwartz is known for serving comfort food in a refined way.

Joe’s Stone Crab

We love seafood, and so do Florida residents and visitors. Joe’s Stone Crab in Miami is a local favorite that gained popularity from its famous crab, key lime pie, and other dishes.

Versailles

When Miami residents find a stellar Cuban restaurant, they often frequent it. Versailles is one such eatery serving authentic Cuban food. You’ll want to visit it repeatedly.

Maty’s

Valerie Chang is at the helm of Maty’s, a Peruvian restaurant located in Midtown Miami. Chang won the prestigious Best Chef: South and she approaches Peruvian cuisine with an innovative creative twist, featuring a contemporary take on old standards like

Yardbird Southern Table & Bar

If you live in Miami or have visited, you’ve most likely heard of Yardbird. They are known for their inventive food and Southern comfort vibe. However, if you can only have one meal here, we recommend brunch. You can’t miss it!

The Katherine

Heading slightly north in Fort Lauderdale is The Katherine. Its unassuming name surprises diners when they experience a menu that includes flavors from all over the world. It’s an intimate spot that will become your next favorite.

Cafe Boulud

As one of the top French restaurants in Palm Beach and arguably the state, Cafe Boulud is renowned for its delectable offerings. Located in the historic Brazilian Court, stop at this location if you’re ever in Palm Beach.

Buccan Palm Beach

You don’t want to sleep on this upscale yet approachable eatery. Chef Clay Conley has made this popular restaurant what it is today: a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Take note: reservations are highly recommended.

Stage Kitchen & Bar Palm Beach Gardens

Last but not least, Stage Kitchen & Bar in Palm Beach Gardens has gained its reputation for good reason. Not only will the food take you on a culinary adventure with its diverse, global menu, but the ambiance will have you frequenting this always-packed eatery.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©Atsushi Hirao/Shutterstock.com.

The post Explore These Top James Beard-Awarded Dining Spots in Florida appeared first on Moms Who Think.

Atlanta is the capital of Georgia, the Peach State, a city that was founded in 1837 and has a rich history, with many attractions and activities. It is the birthplace of Coca-Cola invented in 1886, and visitors and locals can visit the World of Coca-Cola museum, in addition to the Atlanta Botanical Garden and Truist Park, home of the Atlanta Braves. Of course, after a day of sightseeing, you’ll want to eat, and there’s no better places to check out than James Beard-recognized Atlanta restaurants.

There are several choices to pick from but to make it easier, we’ve compiled a list of 4 James Beard-recognized Atlanta restaurants worth visiting that are sure to leave you satisfied, as well as 4 honorable mentions. Whether you live in Atlanta or are just visiting, be sure to give these restaurants a try. (Check out these thrift stores there too.)

The Busy Bee Café

This unassuming restaurant in Atlanta may be small but it serves award-winning food. If you’re in the area, be sure to try their “famous” fried chicken. You’ll be glad you did!

Miller Union

A restaurant that serves seasonal, farm-fresh food? Count us in! With an extensive list of wines and food to choose from, we’re sure you’ll want to visit this spot again and again.

Bacchanalia

This chic restaurant offers a four-course menu and a vibe like no other. If you’re on the hunt for fine dining, unforgettable cuisine, and a modern ambiance, be sure to make a reservation at this spot.

The Dining Room at The Ritz-Carlton

We are not surprised this made the list. With a name like the Ritz-Carlton, you know you’re going to get not only delicious food but an experience that will make you a fan of this hotel collection.

Staplehouse

This restaurant grew in popularity for good reason. Not only do they offer an experience that makes you feel as if you’re dining at a top-tier spot, but it also feels surprisingly homey. Add this popular restaurant to your list.

Gunshow

This isn’t your traditional dim-sum restaurant. While they are known for their creative menu of Asian cuisine, you’re going to find a more eclectic vibe at this well-known eatery.

Ticonderoga Club

Seafood, sandwiches, and inventive cocktails are what give this spot its popularity. While it may have not won the top award, it was definitely nominated for a good reason. We recommend stopping here the next time you’re in Atlanta.

Heirloom Market BBQ

Last but not least, who doesn’t love a good barbecue spot? Especially when it has a creative Asian twist to it. Locals and visitors are like flock to this popular eatery and we’re certain you will too.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©Plateresca/Shutterstock.com.

The post Don’t Miss These James Beard-Recognized Atlanta Restaurants appeared first on Moms Who Think.

McDonald’s has come a long way since 1940 when brothers Richard and Maurice McDonald opened the first store in San Bernadino, California. Today, McDonald’s is one of the most recognizable brands in the world, with more than 40,000 locations in 120 countries and more than $6 billion in sales during the first quarter of 2024. The fast food giant is primarily known for it’s burgers and while it offers a variety of other options, they aren’t typically known for their healthy dining.

French fries, cheeseburgers, crispy chicken sandwiches, and other calorie-laden items aren’t exactly enticing to calorie-conscious diners, and McDonald’s isn’t exactly the first choice for those focused on healthy dining. However, there are menu items that do qualify as healthy dining (or perhaps healthy-ish depending on your definition). By researching each item, we’ve made it easy, and listed the top picks for you.

To determine the best choices for healthy dining at McDonald’s, MomsWhoThink.com reviewed data on nutrition for menu items from MenuStat, a program of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute. McDonald’s food menu items with at least 50 calories were ranked based on the ratio of combined protein and dietary fiber to calories.

50. Honey Mustard Snack Wrap (Crispy)

• Protein: 14g
• Dietary fiber: 1g
• Calories: 330g
• Carbohydrates: 34g

49. Southern Style Chicken Biscuit (Regular Size Biscuit)

• Protein: 17g
• Dietary fiber: 2g
• Calories: 410g
• Carbohydrates: 41g

48. Bacon, Egg & Cheese Bagel

• Protein: 24g
• Dietary fiber: 3g
• Calories: 560g
• Carbohydrates: 56g

47. Mac Snack Wrap

• Protein: 15g
• Dietary fiber: 1g
• Calories: 330g
• Carbohydrates: 26g

46. McSkillet™ Burrito with Sausage

• Protein: 27g
• Dietary fiber: 3g
• Calories: 610g
• Carbohydrates: 44g

45. Chicken McNuggets (6 piece)

• Protein: 13g
• Dietary fiber: 1g
• Calories: 280g
• Carbohydrates: 18g

44. McRib

• Protein: 22g
• Dietary fiber: 3g
• Calories: 500g
• Carbohydrates: 44g

43. Chicken McNuggets (10 piece)

• Protein: 22g
• Dietary fiber: 2g
• Calories: 470g
• Carbohydrates: 30g

42. Sausage McMuffin with Egg

• Protein: 21g
• Dietary fiber: 2g
• Calories: 450g
• Carbohydrates: 30g

41. Big Mac

• Protein: 25g
• Dietary fiber: 3g
• Calories: 540g
• Carbohydrates: 45g

40. Chicken McNuggets (4 piece)

• Protein: 9g
• Dietary fiber: 1g
• Calories: 190g
• Carbohydrates: 12g

39. Premium Crispy Chicken Classic Sandwich

• Protein: 24g
• Dietary fiber: 3g
• Calories: 510g
• Carbohydrates: 56g

38. Angus Deluxe Snack Wrap

• Protein: 20g
• Dietary fiber: 2g
• Calories: 410g
• Carbohydrates: 27g

37. Steak, Egg & Cheese Bagel

• Protein: 33g
• Dietary fiber: 3g
• Calories: 660g
• Carbohydrates: 56g

36. Premium Crispy Chicken Club Sandwich

• Protein: 31g
• Dietary fiber: 3g
• Calories: 620g
• Carbohydrates: 57g

35. Angus Chipotle BBQ Bacon Snack Wrap

• Protein: 21g
• Dietary fiber: 1g
• Calories: 400g
• Carbohydrates: 30g

34. Premium Crispy Chicken Ranch BLT Sandwich

• Protein: 27g
• Dietary fiber: 3g
• Calories: 540g
• Carbohydrates: 56g

33. Angus Mushroom & Swiss Snack Wrap

• Protein: 22g
• Dietary fiber: 2g
• Calories: 430g
• Carbohydrates: 27g

32. Hamburger

• Protein: 12g
• Dietary fiber: 2g
• Calories: 250g
• Carbohydrates: 31g

31. Angus Bacon & Cheese Snack Wrap

• Protein: 21g
• Dietary fiber: 1g
• Calories: 390g
• Carbohydrates: 28g

30. Cheeseburger

• Protein: 15g
• Dietary fiber: 2g
• Calories: 300g
• Carbohydrates: 33g

29. Chicken Selects Premium Breast Strips (3 pc)

• Protein: 23g
• Dietary fiber: 0g
• Calories: 400g
• Carbohydrates: 23g

28. Chicken Selects Premium Breast Strips (5 pc)

• Protein: 38g
• Dietary fiber: 0g
• Calories: 660g
• Carbohydrates: 39g

27. Angus Deluxe

• Protein: 40g
• Dietary fiber: 4g
• Calories: 750g
• Carbohydrates: 61g

26. Big N’ Tasty With Cheese

• Protein: 24g
• Dietary fiber: 3g
• Calories: 460g
• Carbohydrates: 37g

25. Big N’ Tasty

• Protein: 27g
• Dietary fiber: 3g
• Calories: 510g
• Carbohydrates: 38g

24. Angus Chipotle BBQ Bacon

• Protein: 45g
• Dietary fiber: 4g
• Calories: 800g
• Carbohydrates: 66g

23. Double Cheeseburger

• Protein: 25g
• Dietary fiber: 2g
• Calories: 440g
• Carbohydrates: 34g

22. McDouble

• Protein: 22g
• Dietary fiber: 2g
• Calories: 390g
• Carbohydrates: 33g

21. Angus Bacon & Cheese

• Protein: 45g
• Dietary fiber: 4g
• Calories: 790g
• Carbohydrates: 63g

20. Angus Mushroom & Swiss

• Protein: 44g
• Dietary fiber: 4g
• Calories: 770g
• Carbohydrates: 59g

19. Southern Style Crispy Chicken Sandwich

• Protein: 24g
• Dietary fiber: 1g
• Calories: 400g
• Carbohydrates: 39g

18. Quarter Pounder with Cheese

• Protein: 29g
• Dietary fiber: 3g
• Calories: 510g
• Carbohydrates: 40g

17. Egg McMuffin

• Protein: 18g
• Dietary fiber: 2g
• Calories: 300g
• Carbohydrates: 30g

16. Double Quarter Pounder with Cheese

• Protein: 48g
• Dietary fiber: 3g
• Calories: 740g
• Carbohydrates: 40g

15. Ranch Snack Wrap (Grilled)

• Protein: 18g
• Dietary fiber: 1g
• Calories: 270g
• Carbohydrates: 26g

14. Honey Mustard Snack Wrap (Grilled)

• Protein: 18g
• Dietary fiber: 1g
• Calories: 260g
• Carbohydrates: 27g

13. Chipotle BBQ Snack Wrap (Grilled)

• Protein: 18g
• Dietary fiber: 1g
• Calories: 260g
• Carbohydrates: 28g

12. Premium Southwest Salad with Crispy Chicken

• Protein: 26g
• Dietary fiber: 6g
• Calories: 430g
• Carbohydrates: 38g

11. Premium Grilled Chicken Club Sandwich

• Protein: 35g
• Dietary fiber: 4g
• Calories: 460g
• Carbohydrates: 43g

10. Premium Bacon Ranch Salad (without chicken)

• Protein: 9g
• Dietary fiber: 3g
• Calories: 140g
• Carbohydrates: 10g

9. Premium Southwest Salad (without chicken)

• Protein: 6g
• Dietary fiber: 6g
• Calories: 140g
• Carbohydrates: 20g

8. Premium Grilled Chicken Classic Sandwich

• Protein: 27g
• Dietary fiber: 4g
• Calories: 360g
• Carbohydrates: 41g

7. Premium Bacon Ranch Salad with Crispy Chicken

• Protein: 29g
• Dietary fiber: 3g
• Calories: 370g
• Carbohydrates: 20g

6. Premium Caesar Salad with Crispy Chicken

• Protein: 26g
• Dietary fiber: 3g
• Calories: 330g
• Carbohydrates: 20g

5. Premium Grilled Chicken Ranch BLT Sandwich

• Protein: 31g
• Dietary fiber: 4g
• Calories: 380g
• Carbohydrates: 41g

4. Premium Caesar Salad (without chicken)

• Protein: 7g
• Dietary fiber: 3g
• Calories: 90g
• Carbohydrates: 9g

3. Premium Southwest Salad with Grilled Chicken

• Protein: 30g
• Dietary fiber: 6g
• Calories: 320g
• Carbohydrates: 30g

2. Premium Bacon Ranch Salad with Grilled Chicken

• Protein: 33g
• Dietary fiber: 3g
• Calories: 260g
• Carbohydrates: 12g

1. Premium Caesar Salad with Grilled Chicken

• Protein: 30g
• Dietary fiber: 3g
• Calories: 220g
• Carbohydrates: 12g

The image featured at the top of this post is ©Allard1 / iStock Editorial via Getty Images.

The post The Best Choices For Healthy Dining at McDonald’s appeared first on Moms Who Think.

Many of us dream of a Hawaiian getaway, with days spent lounging on the beach in the warmth of the sunshine, and enjoying cool breezes from the palm trees. The Aloha State is comprised of several islands but the most popular is Honolulu, the most visited city in the Hawaiian island chain that welcomes almost 4.7 million visitors a year. Located on the island of Oahu, the state capital is the most populated Hawaiian city, home to more than 1,000 restaurants.

Honolulu has some of the best dining experiences, which might make you wonder which restaurants have earned the prestigious Michelin star. While there are six culinary gems in Honolulu that deserve a Michelin star, no restaurants actually have one. This is because the Michelin Guide doesn't extend to the state of Hawaii, and while there may be Michelin-worthy restaurants, there are currently no Michelin Star restaurants located in the Aloha State.

The Michelin Guide has become the most prestigious place to find restaurants worldwide, but currently there are only seven U.S. locations that have guides. However, they are continuously adding locations, but until they add Honolulu, check out these restaurants we feel are deserving of a Michelin Star.

Culinary Gems in Honolulu That Deserve a Michelin Star

The unique cuisine, culture, and atmosphere of Hawaii are something you have to experience for yourself to fully understand. Each Michelin-worthy restaurant in Honolulu brings its own flair combined with the local flavors of Hawaii.

The Michelin Star rating is given to restaurants that meet the specific criteria they’re looking for. Michelin Inspectors examine a number of factors at each restaurant, including the quality of the food, the personality of the chef, and the consistency of the restaurant over time.

Michelin is also always looking for new restaurants to evaluate. If Michelin decided to visit Honolulu to create a guide, here are some of the restaurants that may be considered:

• La Mer
• Pai Honolulu
• Michel’s at the Colony Surf

While Michelin ratings are given in the form of stars, restaurants can receive a rating of 1, 2, or 3 stars depending on their overall quality and consistency. Let’s take a closer look at each Michelin-worthy restaurant in Honolulu.

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La Mer

If you’re looking for an elegant and luxurious restaurant in Honolulu, La Mer checks all the boxes. From the time you walk into La Mer, you can tell each detail is intentional to elevate the experience of the guests.

As the only restaurant on the island that has received the AAA Five Diamond Award as well as the Forbes 5 Star Award, the meals are exquisite and the service you receive is top-notch. These two awards are among the most prestigious in the culinary world, so you know you're in for a treat with this restaurant.

If you’re looking for the perfect wine pairing for your meal, they also have an award-winning wine selection. It’s no surprise that elegant evening attire is required when you visit La Mer for dinner. After perusing the menu, you can choose from dishes such as the Chilean Sea Bass or the Lamb Filet. Once you've finished your dinner, you'll enjoy options like Caramel Mousse and Honey Crème Fraiche for dessert.

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Pai Honolulu

Get ready for an international affair when taking a seat at Pai Honolulu. This elegant restaurant, located in the Downtown Arts District, is a culinary experience you won’t soon forget. Behind the delicious menu at Pai is Chef Kevin J. Lee, who apprenticed at some of New York’s top restaurants before opening Pai Honolulu.

As his culinary creativity flourished, he began the search for the perfect location for a restaurant of his own creation, which is how Pai Honolulu was born. At this fine dining establishment, Chef Kevin J. Lee combines his international experience with contemporary American favorites.

At Pai, you can choose from the Chef’s Tasting Menu or the Four Course Menu, depending on your preferences. The Chef’s Tasting Menu is sure to delight your palette with choices such as the 90-Day Dry-aged Beef or the Duck Confit Katsu Bao. Your meal wouldn’t be complete without the Mai Tai Sherbet or the Strawberries & Crème Panna Cotta for dessert.

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Michel’s at the Colony Surf

Michel’s at the Colony Surf offers a tasteful dining experience with a perfectly crafted menu and breathtaking views. Soak in the beauty of the Pacific while you experience some of the best hospitality Honolulu has to offer.

The menu at Michel’s at the Colony Surf brings a unique twist to some classic seafood favorites. You can enjoy entrees such as the famous Lobster Bisque A La Michel’s.

For a full dining experience, opt for the tasting menu. Prices begin at $130. Your server will help you choose the perfect wine to pair with your meal, or you can choose from their selection of rare Japanese whiskies and craft cocktails.

Restaurants in Hawaii Worthy of a Bib Gourmand

While there isn’t a certain price range necessary for a restaurant to receive a Michelin Star rating, it’s unlikely for more moderately-priced restaurants to attain the outstanding service quality that Michelin Inspectors are looking for. However, Michelin has another rating that is meant to recognize some of the top moderately priced restaurants.

This rating is known as the Bib Gourmand, which recognizes high-quality food at reasonable prices. According to Michelin Guide, it's just as esteemed as a Michelin star. In Honolulu, the following restaurants may be worthy of a Bib Gourmand rating:

• Merriman’s Honolulu
• The Pig and the Lady
• Helena’s Hawaiian Food

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Merriman’s Honolulu

Merriman’s Honolulu was one of the first restaurants on the island to introduce the idea of farm-to-table. Lead by Peter Merriman, this restaurant combines the casual feel of a neighborhood bistro with the unique culture and feel of old Hawaii.

Merriman's has won numerous awards from Honolulu Magazine, Wine Enthusiast, and Hawaii Magazine. Their menu includes entrees such as the Kalua Pig Quesadilla, Organic Taro Hummus, and the Garlic Roasted Wild Shrimp. For dessert, some of your options include Bread Pudding, Homemade Ice Cream, and Seasonal Sorbet.

This restaurant manages to be satisfying for both your wallet and your taste buds. We won't be surprised if it receives a Bib Gourmand rating in the coming years.

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The Pig and the Lady

The Pig and the Lady is a Vietnamese restaurant located in Downtown Honolulu. This creative culinary experience is led by Chef Andrew Le, who was inspired by his cultural roots to bring The Pig and the Lady to life.

The Pig and the Lady features modern, Vietnamese cooking in a vibrant and lively atmosphere. Their menu includes more casual eats such as Banh Mi, a Vietnamese-style sandwich served on a baguette. They also offer more distinguished dishes, such as the Claypot Braised Kona Kanpachi cooked with pork belly and shrimp. For a side dish, you can pick from a bowl of rice, a toasted baguette, Maggi Butter Fried Egg, and either veggie or pork spring rolls.

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Helena’s Hawaiian Food

Helena’s Hawaiian Food is a restaurant that serves some classic Hawaiian dishes in Honolulu. Helena's is a family-owned business that has been open since 1946. Over the years, this restaurant has continued to be a favorite place for locals and tourists alike.

Helena’s Hawaiian Food received the Regional Classic James Beard Award in 2000. They pride themselves on being an unpretentious eatery that serves local favorites such as Kalua Pig, Short Ribs, and Lomi Salmon.

Finding the Best Restaurants in Honolulu

Honolulu is no doubt a beautiful place to visit, but there are also many aspects of the culture and cuisine that make it unique. Some of the best restaurants in Honolulu may be worthy of a Michelin Star, while some of the more moderately priced restaurants may be worthy of the Bib Gourmand award.

No matter what your tastes are, there are numerous restaurants in Honolulu that are worth visiting. If Michelin decides to bring their guide to Hawaii, many of these establishments may make the list of Michelin Star restaurants in Honolulu.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©Art Wager / E+ via Getty Images.

The post 6 Culinary Gems in Honolulu That Deserve a Michelin Star appeared first on Moms Who Think.

Texas is the second-largest state in the U.S. and is home to many incredible sites. If outdoor adventures are your thing, you can visit Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Big Bend National Park, or Padre Island National Seashore. If something a bit more educational is more your speed, you can visit the Alamo, the Space Center Houston, or the State Capital. Of course, after all this exploring, you're going to be hungry, and the Lone Star state has plenty of options; restaurants so great, they are worthy of Michelin stars.

However, even though Texas has a handful of restaurants worthy of Michelin stars, this doesn't mean that they actually have Michelin stars. This is because the Lone Star State is one of many states in the country that the famous Michelin Guide does not cover. Currently, Michelin only reports on a few U.S. cities. There may be no Michelin Star restaurants in the state of Texas, but there are six Texas restaurants worthy of Michelin stars that are still recognized for their exceptional dining.

Other renowned culinary awards, like the James Beard Award, named for the culinary icon of the same name, have been bestowed on these establishments. In the last two years alone for James Beard Award categories, Texas has had over 60+ nominees. The James Beard Award serves many of the same areas as the Michelin guide but also highlights areas it doesn’t cover.

Street To Kitchen

6501 Harrisburg Boulevard, Houston, Texas 77011

This Thai eatery offers dine-in, take-out, and drive-through options. Street To Kitchen‘s Chef Benchawan Jabthong Painter was the winner in the “best chef” category for the state of Texas at the 2023 James Beard Awards. There's a lunch menu with delightful bites like green curry, Tom Yum soup, Pad Se Yew, and garlic veggies.

The dinner menu includes larger mains like laarb, drunken noodles, curried chicken, and stir-fried Thai-basil beef. Texas Monthly recommends the dine-in kanom jeeb pork dumplings, with chicken wings and rice, and the green curry with a creamy coconut broth. Order a side of roti to soak up the savory leftovers, and enjoy your Street To Kitchen experience.

The Jerk Shack

10234 TX-151 Suite 103, San Antonio, Texas 78251

The Jerk Shack is an artisanal Caribbean cuisine spot located in San Antonio, Texas. The great mind behind this Caribbean mastery, Nicola Blaque, was also a semi-finalist for the regional “best chef” award in the 2023 James Beard categories.

Launched in 2018, Blaque opened The Jerk Shack following a stint in the Army and schooling at the Culinary Institute of America. The popular menu items include 3 piece fried or jerk chicken and savory beef patty pastries. You may find braised oxtails on Fridays and weekends. Enjoy their weekly shrimp and grits, jerk egg rolls, and curry chicken. There are also lots of combos for purchase. And don't miss out on the coco honey butter rolls. You simply can't go wrong at The Jerk Shack.

Nixta Taqueria

2512 East 12th Street, Austin, Texas 78702

Nixta Taqueria‘s Chef Edgar Rico was the recipient of the James Beard Emerging Chef Award in 2022. Nixta Taqueria aims to engage and educate its community through beautifully prepared food. They use both classic and modern recipes to form delicious corn tortillas, tacos, tostadas, and tasty treats all around.

Nixta Taqueria is in a small space, but has a big culinary presence. The crew works on one 8-inch flat-top grill and fills hundreds of taco orders throughout the day. Let's take a look at some of the food offered at Nixta Taqueria. Of course, you can't have a taqueria without chips and dip. You can also enjoy a salsa flight for a truly mouth-watering start to your meal.

Tacos include classic bean and cheese, cauliflower, duck carnitas, and a beef tartare tostada. If it's there, be sure to try the masa tempura summer squash, which comes with horseradish aioli, confit cherry tomatoes, pickled corn, and toasted sesame seeds. Nixta Taqueria also has some great breakfast and dessert options worth checking out when you stop at this restaurant in Texas.

Canje

1914 East 6th Street suite c, Austin, Texas 78702

Canje, owned by Chef Tavel Bristol-Joseph, is a new-age Caribbean restaurant. Britsol-Joseph was also in the semi-finalists for best chef of Texas in the 2023 James Beard Awards season. Canje is the name of the Canje pheasant, the national bird of Guyana, which is where Britsol-Joseph hails from. Ingredients are locally sourced and utilized in traditional recipes inspired by the islands of Jamaica, Puerto Rico, and Guyana.

The menu features starters like plantain chips with mango hot sauce and pink pineapple. Try the sea bass with tomato and squash, the curry wagyu beef, or the wild boar pepper pot. Sides include roti, Trinidadian pepper rice, Texas okra, and fried sweet plantains. Save room for desserts like pineapple upside down cake and rum punch sorbet.

Distant Relatives

3901 Promontory Point Drive, Austin, Texas 78744

Distant Relatives restaurant is a “modern African-American” barbeque joint led by Chef Damien Brockway. Brockway was up for the regional best chef category in the James Beard 2023 awards. Offering dine-in, take-out, and drive-through, Distant Relatives offers seasonal ingredients for their local recipes and classic barbeque goodies.

The menu is centered around meats, sandwiches, sides, and snacks. Enjoy their pork spare ribs with washed onion or tamarind molasses pulled pork. Brisket sandwiches come with pickled cucumber and red onion. Get a side of black-eyed-peas or collard greens, and snack on some berbere spiced pickled carrots or smoked, crunchy peanuts.

KG BBQ

3108 Manor Road, Austin, Texas 78723

KG BBQ was started by Chef Kareem El-Ghayesh after he left Cairo. He moved to Austin in 2016 with the goal to open a place that combined the flavors of his home country with the tradition of good ol' Texas BBQ. In 2023, Chef El-Ghayesh was included in the regional best chef semifinalists for the James Beard Awards. KG BBQ offers special event catering, a full menu for dine-in, and take-out options.

Pick between classic BBQ meats, wraps, and bowl options. Try their smoked brisket, pomegranate glazed pork ribs, lamb bacon ribs, or their sumac and cinnamon-rubbed lamb shoulder. There are also a few chicken dishes available.

Classic brisket gets combined with the Middle East in KG BBQ's rice bowls. These can come with tahini, cinnamon roasted nuts, or even pomegranate seeds. For dessert, get some cardamom and pistachio rice pudding with mascarpone whip. Or, try their Oum Ali, an Egyptian bread pudding with puff pastry, milk, spices, and nuts. This place definitely should be one of the Michelin Star restaurants in Texas- that is, if they had them. Good thing it was recognized by James Beard already.

Other James Beard nominees that deserve a place on this, already very long, list include Goldee's Barbecue, the Curry Boys BBQ, Gatlin’s BBQ, and Molino Olōyō. Check them out on the James Beard semifinalist list here.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©AbeSnap23 / Shutterstock.com.

The post 6 Texas Restaurants Worthy of Michelin Stars appeared first on Moms Who Think.

We all have our favorite dining hotspots. Places that we may have frequented in our youth and felt nostalgic every time we visited or restaurants that we enjoyed eating at because the food is really that good. But there are certain restaurants, a select few dining hotspots from the ’90s that were particularly popular.

Perhaps it was the gimmicky atmosphere that drew customers in, like the Fashion cafe, or the fun and games at ESPN Zone, but these establishments that once ruled the ’90s have now all but faded away. There are many once-beloved eateries listed here, and most are now shuttered. (Don’t forget to check out 1970s restaurants that no longer exist.)

The All-American Burger

Although All-American Burger was mostly a California and West Coast phenomenon, it’s still one of the most iconic 1990s restaurants. They served hamburgers, fries, shakes, and all the good stuff. The restaurant was made famous in the film “Fast Times at Ridgemont High” which was released in 1982.

However, though the restaurant was a favorite of many, it couldn’t stand the test of time. The last location was closed in 2010.

Kenny Rogers Roasters

This incredible restaurant was the brainchild of country music legend Kenny Rogers and the former CEO of KFC, John Y. Brown. The idea was to get tasty food and good prices and people loved it.

It was considered to be one of the most iconic 1990s restaurants, partly because of the food but also because of the sitcom “Seinfeld,” in the episode where Kramer loved the restaurant but had to boycott it because the sign on the front of the eatery was too bright.

The truth is that a few of these restaurants do still exist, but they’re only in Asia, so it’s highly unlikely that Americans will be seeing them anymore.

Fashion Cafe

In 1995, supermodels Elle Macpherson, Naomi Campbell, Christy Turlington, and Claudia Schiffer banned together to start the Fashion Cafe. It was a great idea to combine the idea of good eating with supermodels and fashion, and it hit all the right notes. In the beginning, people were hyped about the Fashion Cafe, but it didn’t take long for negative issues to surface.

There were legal issues, management problems, and financial troubles. Then, in 1998, the restaurant was hit with several lawsuits and fraud allegations and the restaurant was shut down and the experiment was over.

Chi-Chi’s

If you lived during the 1990s and wanted to go to a restaurant where you could try a little bit of everything, then you likely went to Chi-Chi’s. The chain began in Minnesota back in 1975, and by 1995, there were over 210 locations across the country. The idea here was that it was a celebration of food.

Everyone who sat down was first presented with bowls of hot and mild salsa and a bunch of chips. It was in 1995 when the company faced a Hepatitis A scare and then filed for bankruptcy. Like Kenny Rogers Roasters, you can still try Chi-Chi’s restaurants, but you’ll have to leave America and try Austria or Kuwait to get your fix.

The Official All-Star Cafe

The success of the Planet Hollywood restaurants led to the creation of The Official All-Star Cafe. Similar to Planet Hollywood, patrons could come to it, eat a meal, and check out memorabilia from all of the major sports. Many celebrity athletes tried to get the chain off its feet, including Wayne Gretzky, Shaquille O’Neal, and Ken Griffey, Jr., among others.

The first restaurant opened up in 1995, and it was cool for the time. However, by 1998, people lost interest and profits tanked. Planet Hollywood had to file for bankruptcy and that also meant the end for The Official All-Star Cafe.

ESPN Zone

Next on the list of the iconic 1990s restaurants that no longer exist is ESPN Zone, which was similar to The Official All-Star Cafe, in that it banked on tourists for a big chunk of their customer base. The chain of restaurants opened late into the 90s, with the first location opening in 1998.

In addition to getting chicken wings, burgers, and similar menu items, guests could sit in special screening rooms where they could watch their favorite team play. It was a nice idea but it didn’t last too long. By 2010, the last of the ESPN Zone restaurants had closed and they’re now just a part of history.

Wimpy Grills

Wimpy Grills had a great run. The restaurant was started way back in 1954 in the United Kingdom. After being a hit there, the chain moved to America. The restaurant continued to serve its trademark hamburgers and milkshakes for many years, with its success continuing through the 1990s. Sadly, the chain could not keep up with the competition and the evolving fast-food landscape, so all Wimpy Grill locations were closed in the United States by 2002.

MaggieMoos

One thing that you can always count on when it comes to selling food and desserts is that ice cream always sells. During the 1990s, they started to make ice cream a little differently. Shops like Marble Slab and Cold Stone were opening up around this time, and their twist was that they made ice cream cones based on your preferences and they prepared it right there in front of you.

MaggieMoo’s was one of those restaurants, which got its start in Kansas City in 1989. They then flourished during the 1990s and opened many stores. However, in 2011, they merged with Marble Slap, and all MaggieMoo’s were closed.

Casa Bonita

If you wanted tasty and authentic Mexican food back in the 1990s, and you lived in the south, then you went to Casa Bonita. You could order many amazing dishes and eat while surrounded by an electric atmosphere. Back then, there were many restaurants in Oklahoma, Texas, and Arkansas.

However, the parent company filed for bankruptcy in 2011 and the dream was over. At this point, there is one Casa Bonita left. It’s in Colorado and it’s considered an official landmark. Still, the business is far from its 90s glory days.

Don Pablo’s

Don Pablo’s was another of the iconic 1990s restaurants that sadly had to close. The chain was founded by Stuart Melia in 1985 and it hit its stride during the 1990s. The charm of this restaurant is that they made their dishes from scratch and there was a vibrant atmosphere.

When the 2000s came around, Don Pablo’s started to face financial difficulties. They began to close restaurants as they tried to regain their financial footing. However, by 2016, all of the restaurants had been closed.

Souplantation

As the name suggests, Souplantation, sometimes known as Sweet Tomatoes, was a salad bar restaurant where you could make your own salad and choose from pasta, soup, and other tasty options. The food was high quality and was a step above your typical buffet. The chain was founded in the early 1980s, and during the 1990s, it grew by leaps and bounds.

Eventually, there were over 100 restaurants. However, the beginning of the end came when their parent company filed for bankruptcy. They closed many Souplantation restaurants and the rest closed during the pandemic. Buffets didn’t do well during that time because it was considered to be unsanitary for everyone to share food. This was the fate of many buffet restaurants.

Koo Koo Roo

Founded in 1998 by Mike Maltby, the idea behind Koo Koo Roo was that it was a fast-food/casual restaurant that served healthy chicken dishes. Their most popular dishes involved salads and rotisserie chicken. While they gained a lot of popularity during the 1990s, Koo Koo Roo had trouble competing with the bigger fish in the fast-food industry.

The fact that they had fewer menu items than those other places didn’t help matters. There were also struggles with brand recognition, high operating costs, and economic downturns. As a result, all remaining locations were closed by 2003.

Chevys Fresh Mex

Our final entry on the list of iconic ’90s restaurants that no longer exist is Chevys Fresh Mex. This was an amazing Mexican chain that began in California in 1986. During the 1990s, you couldn’t turn around without seeing one of these restaurants.

They even had one in the middle of Times Square in New York. Like other restaurants on this list, their parent company filed for bankruptcy and most of the restaurants had to be closed, including all of them in California. Now, the chain is all but a memory, but it was certainly good while it lasted.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©"ESPN Zone" by Chris Breeze is licensed under BY 2.0..

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Connecticut is one of the original 13 colonies that formed the United States and is steeped in history, from having the oldest continually published newspaper – the Hartford Courant – to being a key component in the American Revolution. Home to Yale University and sports network giant ESPN, Connecticut is a New England state beloved for its fall foliage. But it also has a thriving food scene with upscale, world-class dining, with many James Beard award-winning chefs.

But there is one thing that restaurants in the Constitution State are missing. The prized Michelin Star. It's not because restaurants in Connecticut aren't worthy of receiving a Michelin star but since the Michelin Guide first came to the U.S. in 2005, Michelin has only added a handful of U.S. guides to their list. And Connecticut is not among the cities that has a guide.

Even though Connecticut doesn't have a Michelin Guide yet, Michelin continues to expand its U.S. guides and one could always be added in the future.

Michelin Worthy Restaurants in Connecticut

Since the mid-1900s, the Michelin Star has been the most prestigious rating a restaurant could receive. Even though the stars are awarded to restaurants, not chefs, there are many chefs who spend their entire careers trying to earn a Michelin Star.

On the other hand, some chefs ask Michelin not to award them any stars. This is often due to the pressure it puts on a restaurant and its staff. Even after receiving a star, it's a lot of work for a restaurant to keep it.

No matter how some chefs or restaurant owners feel about the Michelin rating, it's a pretty good indicator of the best quality restaurants.

There isn't a Connecticut Michelin Guide yet, but there could be one added by Michelin in the future. The cuisine in Connecticut definitely has a creative flair and this state is often known for its delicious seafood. If Michelin decided to add a Connecticut Guide, here are some of the restaurants that could make the cut:

• Winvian Farm
• Restaurant L’Ostal
• Present Company
• Arethusa Al Tavolo
• Oyster Club
• Union League Cafe
• Materia

Each upscale Connecticut restaurant has its own unique atmosphere and cuisine. Let's take a closer look at the creativity of each restaurant and what makes each one worthy of a Michelin Star.

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Restaurant at Winvian Farm

Located in Morris, Connecticut, the Restaurant at Winvian Farm is an experience you don’t want to miss. This cozy farm-to-table restaurant is led by Executive Chef Chris Eddy with his fresh, local ingredients and exquisite menu. 

The Restaurant at Winvian Farm has been recognized with five AAA Diamond awards. With the romantically lit rustic dining rooms, dining at Winvian Farm is more of an experience than a meal. Additionally, this restaurant is part of Relais & Chateaux, which is a membership that includes some of the most excellent hotels and restaurants around the world.

At Winvian Farm, they offer a three-course Prix Fixe Dinner with a menu that changes daily. You might enjoy items such as the Handmade Ricotta Gnocchi with butternut squash, kale, and spinach, or the Atlantic Halibut with creamed corn, caulini, and piquillo pepper.

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Restaurant L’Ostal

From the charming atmosphere to the exceptional French cuisine, there are many things to love about Restaurant L'Ostal. Located in Darien, Connecticut, this quaint establishment offers an escape away from the busyness of life. The exceptional cuisine nearly transports you to Southern France.

Chef Jared Sipple leads the way to excellence in this restaurant. This chef spent over two decades honing his craft and worked in Michelin Star Restaurants across the U.S. and Europe.

With a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, L'Ostal has a seasonally changing menu and runs nightly specials. After starting off with some small plates, cheese, and charcuterie, you'll move on to your first and second courses. On the menu, you'll find items such as the Wild Striped Bass or the Moroccan Spiced Chicken. They also offer a wide range of wine selections and craft cocktails.

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Present Company

Get ready for a vibrant, yet cozy, atmosphere when you visit Present Company in Tariffville, Connecticut. Owner and Chef Jeff Lizotte has worked in award-winning restaurants all around the globe. He has also been nominated for the James Beard Award and won the Connecticut Restaurant Association Chef of the Year Award.

You can choose from two different menus during your visit to Present Company. Guests are offered the a la carte menu or the five-course tasting menu.

When you dine at Present Company, you can start off your night with items such as the Shredded Tuscan Kale Salad or the Roasted Honeynut Squash. For your main course, you might enjoy the Grilled Hanger Steak or the Stuffed Branzino.

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Arethusa Al Tavolo

As a true dairy and seed-to-table restaurant, Chef Dan Magill and his team focus on using the freshest and highest quality ingredients at Arethusa al tavolo. Right next door to the restaurant is Arethusa Farm Dairy, which produces all the restaurant's dairy products.

Additionally, the ingredients for all of the meals at Arethusa al tavolo are sourced from local farms in Connecticut. Chef Dan Magill has won numerous awards and recognitions. He was nominated for the James Beard Award and was awarded the Chef of the Year by the Connecticut Restaurant Association.

The menu changes based on the freshest seasonal ingredients. However, you might find items like the Parsnip-Pear Soup and the Lobster and Avocado Salad. For your main course, you can enjoy delicious items like the Lamb Loin With Fig and Pistachio or the Diver Scallops.

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Oyster Club

It’s no surprise that Connecticut is home to some of the top seafood restaurants. At Oyster Club in Mystic, Connecticut, the goal is for every guest to have a beautiful and thoughtful dining experience. They accomplish this through the atmosphere, ambiance, and delectable cuisine.

During the warmer months at the Oyster Club, you can enjoy an outdoor meal in the Treehouse, which offers beautiful views of the Mystic River. The menu at the Oyster Club includes classic seafood dishes and American classics such as pasta, burgers, and seafood. 

Chef Renee Touponce was nominated for the James Beard Award for Best Chef in the Northeast. Chef Touponce ensures each menu item is carefully curated from local ingredients; the items change daily based on the local community. You can enjoy meals such as the Mussels with coconut lemongrass broth, cilantro, and lime. Or, you can try the clams and oysters from the raw bar, served with lemon and house cocktail sauce.

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Union League Café

Located in the heart of New Haven, Union League Café is an upscale restaurant with French-inspired cuisine. The atmosphere at Union League Café provides a luxurious yet relaxing place to enjoy a night out or have a meal with friends.

Union League Café is located across from Yale University and has some of the best cuisine and service in the area. Chef Guillaume Traversaz worked in award-winning restaurants in Europe and Australia before joining the team at Union League Café. The restaurant is also located in a historical building that occupies property once owned by New Haven’s first mayor, Roger Sherman. The ambiance of Union League Café combines the beauty of a lovely café with the history of the city.

To enjoy the full menu at Union League, you can choose the Chef's Tasting Menu, which is available Tuesday through Thursday. This six-course meal gives the full experience of all that Union League Café has to offer. You might enjoy items such as the Foie Gras Pressé with toasted nuts and dried fruit, or the Ricotta Ravioli with a butternut squash puree.

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Materia

If you’re looking for an upscale Italian restaurant in Connecticut, Materia may be the perfect stop for you. Materia is located in Bantam and offers an extensive wine list, excellent service, and distinguished Italian cuisine.

The dining area at Materia is elegant and calm for those looking for a relaxing evening. For an even more intimate experience, the Montalcino Room is a private dining area within the Materia restaurant that seats up to 24 guests. This experience comes with a pre fixe menu and a luxurious wine pairing.

While the menu items at Materia do change with the seasons, you’ll often find items like the Tagliatelle Al Ragu with beef, pork, tomatoes, and parmigiano-reggiano or the Tortellini Alla Mantovana with roasted pumpkin ravioli.

Finding the Top Quality Restaurants in Connecticut

Connecticut is known for its beautiful seasons, breathtaking scenery, and even for its creative cuisine. Despite it often being overshadowed by the high-class restaurants in New York City, there are still many highly-rated fine dining restaurants in Connecticut.

Even though there aren't any Michelin Star Restaurants in Connecticut, Michelin could add a Connecticut Guide in the future. If Michelin decides to rate any Connecticut restaurants, some of these highly-rated restaurants may be at the top of the list.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©Sean Pavone/Shutterstock.com.

The post Restaurants in Connecticut That Deserve Michelin Stars appeared first on Moms Who Think.

Arizona is renowned for its breathtaking attractions – the Grand Canyon, Sedona, the Petrified Forest National Park, the Saguaro National Forest – along with its vibrant and diverse culinary scene. Whether you're a visitor or a local, the Grand Canyon State delights with its creative flavors, often sparking curiosity about whether any Michelin-starred restaurants can be found here.

Despite Arizona having popular cities like Phoenix, Tucson, and historic Scottsdale, there aren’t any Michelin Star restaurants in the state. Even though Michelin created the first guide in 1900, it didn’t make its way to the United States until 2005. Currently, there are only a handful of U.S. locations with Michelin Guides, and it’s not surprising that places like New York City and California were the first to make the list.

With Michelin adding two new locations this year, there’s a possibility they could add an Arizona Michelin Guide at some point. Keep reading to find out what Arizona restaurants could make the list if Michelin created an Arizona Guide.

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Michelin Star Restaurants in Arizona

When it comes to Michelin Star Restaurants across the world, restaurants have to meet specific criteria to be considered worthy of a star. From the quality of the ingredients to the chef’s personality, it takes a lot for a restaurant to earn even one Michelin star, let alone two or three stars.

Arizona is home to some delicious restaurants that offer unique flavors and items that are specific to the Grand Canyon State. There’s plenty of history and tradition to explore when it comes to the top restaurants and fine dining in Arizona.

If Michelin decided that Arizona was worthy of a Michelin Guide in the future, here are some of the Arizona restaurants that could make the cut:

• The larder & the delta 
• Sel
• Cafe Monarch
• Kai
• Maple & Ash
• Quiessence

The Michelin Star is still considered the most prestigious award that any restaurant can achieve. Keep reading to find out why each restaurant may be worthy of the elusive Michelin Star rating.

Binkley’s

The Larder & the Delta took over the space previously occupied by Binkley's, one of Arizona's original fine-dining restaurants. Owners Kevin and Amy Binkley turned over their restaurant to Chef Stephen Jones of the Larder & the Delta and it recently opened in September 2024.

This new fine dining establishment offers a cozy dining establishment with one seating per evening – 6 pm – Wednesday through Saturday and features a 12-course menu using locally grown produce and locally raised cattle that features the cuisine of the American South.

Dining at the Larder & the Delta typically takes about 2 hours. The menu changes regularly to keep the ingredients fresh and within the season. Prices for the 12-course meal start at $155 per person.

Part of the 12 courses include items like like chicken skin with orange blossom honey, citrus, lavender, royal Ossetra caviar; akara with okra, watermelon molasses, and Morita pepper; antebellum yellow dent corn grits, Dungeness crab salad, sea urchin, and tarragon.

Sel

Whether you choose a seat in the vibrant, colorful dining room or on the quaint patio area, your experience at Sel will certainly be one to remember.

Located in Old Town Scottsdale, Sel is owned and operated by Chef Brandon Levine and his wife May. It's easily one of the best restaurants in the Phoenix area.

The dinner at Sel is focused on fresh local ingredients and a blend of cuisines from all around the world. Like all the items on the menu, the Chef's Tasting Menu is constantly changing. It's also the best way to experience all that Sel has to offer. You might enjoy dishes such as the Malpeque Oyster Stew or the Blue Fin Tuna Tataki. Delicious desserts can include the Strawberry-Marzipan Shortcake and the Flourless Chocolate Tiramisu.

Café Monarch

Prepare to be amazed as you walk into the extravagant, chandelier-lit atmosphere of Café Monarch. They combine exceptional service and delicious cuisine to create an all-around elegant dining experience.

Café Monarch aims to offer fine dining redefined. With an ever-changing variety of menu items, they focus on including the best local and sustainable ingredients.

In addition to their exceptional service skills, each server at Café Monarch goes through the Court of Masters Sommeliers Program. This ensures they have the training and experience necessary to help you find the perfect wine pairing for each part of your meal. 

The Chef's Tasting Menu includes eight delicious courses. You might experience items such as the Argentinian Shrimp Ceviche or the Berkshire Pork Belly with tomatoes, Bulgarian feta, and tarragon. The Chef's Tasting Menu is priced at $285/person. For a cheaper alternative, try the standard four-course dinner menu.

Kai

Located within the Sheraton Grand Resort, Kai is one of the best fine dining establishments in Arizona. This restaurant has won the Forbes 5 Star award and the AAA Five Diamond Award for its excellent food. 

The cuisine at Kai is meant to celebrate the culture, history, and flavors of Native Americans. With a breathtaking view overlooking the Komatke Mountain Range, the atmosphere of the restaurant is divine. 

Chef Drew Anderson leads the way to delicious cuisine and menu items focused on the local flavors in the community. The menu specifically includes items from the Native Seed Search Foundation that focus on preserving ancient lines of indigenous seeds. You might enjoy items such as the Wheat Berry & Black Garlic Risotto, or the Grilled American Bison Tenderloin. For dessert, enjoy dishes like their Sweet Corn Custard and Dark Chocolate Mousse.

Maple & Ash

Maple & Ash is the epitome of a luxury steakhouse. Located in Scottsdale, Arizona, Michelin Star Chef Danny Grant created the menu at Maple & Ash to craft an innovative and authentic approach to fine dining. Maple & Ash also has a location in Chicago. 

On the dinner menu, you’ll find items such as the Alaskan King Crab Legs or the Fire-roasted Seafood Tower. The tower includes a collection of seafood roasted in the hearth and drizzled with garlic butter and chili oil. You can’t miss out on dessert when there are choices like the Blood Orange Mousse with toasted meringue or the Coconut Cream Pie with brown butter graham crust and rum Chantilly.

If you want the full experience at Maple & Ash, you can also choose their take on a tasting menu. The kitchen staff will curate your experience for you, ensuring a truly unique dining experience.

Quiessence

Quiessence is a true farm-to-table experience in Arizona. Each week, Chef Dustin Christofolo creates the menu based on the vegetables, flowers, eggs, and herbs gathered from the onsite garden and local farms. Chef Christofolo brings a level of luxury to fresh ingredients that no other restaurant in Arizona has.

There are numerous seating areas at Quiessence at the Farm, and each seat offers an intimate, romantic, and unique experience. On the way into the restaurant, you can stop by the Soil & Seed Garden at the Farm. It’s in this lush garden that you’ll find the connection between fresh produce and an incredible dining experience.

As the freshest ingredients change throughout the year, so does the menu at Quiessence. As part of the seasonal tasting menu, you can choose from the three-course, four-course, or five-course meal. On each menu, you'll find distinguished items, such as the Duck Confit Leg with zucchini puree. Or you might enjoy the Potato Gnocchi with Bolognese, carrots, celery, and ricotta.

Finding the Top Restaurants in Arizona

From beautiful scenery to delectable restaurants, Arizona is one of the top states in the country to visit. No matter how delicious some of the restaurants are, there are currently no Michelin Star restaurants in Arizona. Michelin hasn’t chosen to rate the Grand Canyon State yet, but it could always add Arizona to the list in the future.

No matter what your thoughts are on awards and restaurant ratings, the Michelin Star is still considered the most prestigious rating a restaurant or chef can receive. If Michelin decides to add Arizona to their list, it would have a significant impact on the dining scene and nightlife in the state.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©Brent Coulter/Shutterstock.com.

The post Arizona’s Michelin-Worthy Dining Experiences appeared first on Moms Who Think.

Austin, Texas is renowned for being a city that has hundreds of music venues and live music festivals and is home to the world-famous SXSW music festival. The city is also an outdoor enthusiast's playground with crystal-clear lakes and scenic trails to enjoy. Perhaps it is Austin's creative and artsy feel that carries over from it's art scene to it's culinary scene that has given the city such a unique dining experience.

Many restaurants are award-winning establishments, with outstanding dishes prepared by talented chefs and their teams. You may wonder which Austin restaurant has received a prestigious Michelin Star, the top rating a restaurant can achieve.

It may come as a surprise to learn that Austin restaurants don't have any official Michelin Stars. This is because Micheline hasn’t created a guide for the Lone Star State, and there are no Michelin Star restaurants anywhere in Texas.

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As of the end of 2023, only seven U.S. locations have Michelin Guides, but they’re always looking for new cities and states to add. If the Michelin Guide does ever come to Austin, keep reading to find out what restaurants could make the list.

Michelin Worthy Restaurants in Austin, Texas

When it comes to cuisine, each city has its local favorites. With a creative and unique city like Austin, there are some restaurants that offer something you can’t find anywhere else.

Michelin announced two new guides in the U.S. in 2023, and although Texas isn’t one of them, there are enough unique and luxurious restaurants in places like Austin that they may add a Texas Michelin Guide in the future.

If Michelin did come to Texas, here are some of the restaurants in Austin that could make the list:

• Uchi
• Emmer & Rye
• Pasta | Bar
• Toshokan
• Barley Swine
• Red Ash Italia
• Canje

If you’re ever in the Austin area, these restaurants are worth visiting. Let’s find out what makes each restaurant unique and worthy of a Michelin Star.

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Uchi

Award-winning Chef Tyson Cole leads the way for a fantastic experience in this stylish Japanese restaurant. Uchi is the perfect place to make a reservation for a special occasion or a sophisticated night out.

In Japanese, Uchi translates to house, and it’s a fitting name for the stylish yet comforting atmosphere at this restaurant. The menu is focused on non-traditional Japanese cuisine and each dish strikes a balance between style and creativity. Choose from among their daily specials, or make a pick from their more permanent menu.

The daily specials are constantly changing, but you might choose a dish like the A5 Hot Rock with A5 Wagyu beef, or the Tako with bok choy, tom kha, and peanut. On the rest of their menu, you may find dishes like the Wagyu Striploin or the Grilled Striped Bass.        

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Emmer & Rye

Located on the bottom floor of the Skyhouse Austin Apartments, Emmer & Rye is far from ordinary with a menu that changes daily based on the local farmer’s haul. The flavors of each dish are inspired by Chef Kevin’s unique experience cooking in Copenhagen.

Chef Kevin Fink was a James Beard Finalist for the Best Chef in Texas, and the restaurant has also been recognized by The New York Times, Austin American-Statesman, and Bon Appetit.

With an ever-changing menu, it’s always a surprise what dishes you might enjoy when you visit Emmer & Rye. You might find entrees like the Red Snapper with Fuji apple and corn relish, or the Grilled Zucchini with pickled turnip and toasted elephant garlic. Try their Texas Wagyu Beef Showcase for $105. Note that your whole table needs to participate in this experience.

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Pasta | Bar

Pasta | Bar is the newest addition to the Scratch Restaurant family, started by husband and wife duo Phillip Frankland Lee and Margarita Kallas-Lee. Both Chef Phillip and Margarita have been featured in Zagat’s “30 Under 30,” and also recognized by numerous other publications.

The atmosphere at Pasta | Bar is definitely intimate, with only 10 seats available at the counter where you can enjoy the Tasting Menu. This seating arrangement also gives you a full view of the kitchen. The spectacular experience at Pasta | Bar begins as soon as you walk in the door and are offered a complimentary cocktail in the lounge.

Once the adventure of your meal begins, you’ll be surprised by each dish that brings several bold and creative flavors. With items such as the Scallop with lime granita and cucumber or the Escargot with smoke and bone marrow, there’s no limit to the flavors you’ll experience throughout your meal. Dinner starts at $195/person.

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Toshokan

If you’re ready for an intimate, exclusive dining experience, Toshokan is the place to go. This restaurant offers a 14-course sushi speakeasy-style meal, served to only six people at a time. You have to be quick if you want to snag reservations here. Toshokan was even included on the list of The Toughest Restaurant Reservations in Austin.

If you’re lucky enough to get a reservation, you’ll find your seat after entering the restaurant through a secretive bookcase door. Chef Saine Wong brings his talent and knowledge to Toshokan after spending years focusing on different types of cuisines all over the world. Before opening Toshokan, he traveled to 26 different countries to study the food and ingredients used in different cultures.

After opening its doors in 2022, Toshokan has become one of the most prestigious and exclusive sushi restaurants in Austin. Within the first year of opening, they were ranked one of the best new restaurants by Austin Monthly.

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Barley Swine

Since 2010, Barley Swine has brought fresh flavors and local ingredients to life in the heart of Austin. The team at Barley Swine is led by Austin local Bryce Gilmore and this restaurant is committed to supporting local farmers and ranchers. They’re also committed to doing their part in protecting the environment, working closely with the non-profit organization ZeroFoodprint. Through this partnership, Barley Swine hopes to achieve and maintain carbon neutrality.

Barley Swine is a popular and well-loved restaurant in Austin, so reservations are encouraged. The entire dining experience at Barley Swine will take about two hours, and throughout that time, you’ll get to experience every bit of the Chef’s Tasting Menu.

The menu does change seasonally, but you can expect each dish to include bold flavors and a mix of local ingredients. You may see options like the Cured Bluefin Tuna with brown butter squash and a mushroom dressing. The meal wouldn’t be complete without desserts, such as the Grapefruit Ice Cream or the Apple Pavé with an oatcake, oatmeal cookie butter, and cheddar.

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Red Ash Italia

Red Ash Italia stands out on the list of Michelin-worthy restaurants in Austin as a restaurant with craft Italian cuisine. Executive Chef John Carver leads his team to prepare creative dishes inspired by the cuisine of Northern and Southern Italy.

The menu at Red Ash includes items such as handmade pasta, seafood, and delectable Italian desserts. There are signature dishes, such as the Wood Roasted Beef Bone Marrow with Wild Mushroom Risotto. You can also enjoy fresh pasta, such as the Potato Gnocchi with fresh cream, gorgonzola, and smoked prosciutto.

During your meal, feel free to choose selections from the extensive wine list. Here you’ll find wines from across the world, including selections from Austria, France, Spain, and Argentina. You can also opt to have one of the restaurant's signature craft cocktails.

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Canje

Traditional and modern dishes collide at this lively and vibrant Caribbean restaurant in Austin. At Canje, you’ll find bright colors, bold flavors, and cuisine inspired by Guyana, Puerto Rico, Jamaica, and every island in between.

Even the name of the restaurant adds to the story of the environment. Canje is named after the Canje pheasant, which is the national bird of Guyana. This tropical bird provides some insight into the type of vibrant food you’ll experience when you dine at Canje.

The menu includes a variety of dishes, such as the Sea Bass with mojo, tomato, squash, and orange. Or, you might try the Grilled Berkshire Pork Chop with mango vindaloo, achar, and green papaya. You can’t complete your meal without tasting one of their unique desserts, such as the Cassareep Ice cream with dark chocolate, passion fruit, puffed rice, and pepitas sprinkled on top. Or, try their Pineapple Upside Down Cake with Texas pecan, Rhum Agricole, and strawberry jam.

The Best Restaurants Austin Has to Offer

Anyone who has lived in or visited Austin will tell you how unique the city is. From its vibrant art and music scene to its vast array of creative restaurants, there are plenty of exciting things to do and see in Austin.

Although there aren’t any Michelin Star Restaurants in Austin yet, there's no telling what the future holds for Michelin and where they may add new guides. There are plenty of restaurants for Michelin to explore across the great state of Texas, especially in the capital. If Michelin does visit Texas one day, they may consider some of these luxury restaurants in Austin.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©f11photo/Shutterstock.com.

The post Exceptional Dining in Austin Worthy of Michelin Stars appeared first on Moms Who Think.

If you’re heading to the North Star State, you should definitely head over to Minneapolis, a city known for its incredible outdoor activities, from hiking trails and waterways to lakes – there are 22, which earned it the nickname, “City of Lakes.” It’s also has an array of art museums, like the Minneapolis Institute of Art, the Guthrie Theater, and the Minneapolis Art Institute, and you can’t miss the Mall of America, the largest mall in the U.S.

But Minneapolis has much more to offer than culture and recreational activities. It has several James Beard-awarded restaurants that warrant a visit. To narrow down your choices, Moms Who Think compiled a list of 7 James Beard-awarded restaurants in Minneapolis you should try. (When you’re dining in, check out these healthy options.)

Owamni

If you’ve never tried a restaurant with true Native American cuisine, you are missing out. This restaurant offers diners a full experience with “adventurous” flavors (think: popcorn crickets or elk tacos). However, if that’s too bold for your tastes, Owamni also offers tasty dishes such as braised duck and sweet potato mash.

Young Joni

Housed in a cool speakeasy-like setting, Young Joni is a vibe all its own. Dine on familiar dishes like margherita pizza or creamy burrata. Or even branch out to some of their specialties including lamb meatballs or chili glazed prawns. Enjoy that with a craft cocktail, and you have the perfect meal.

Spoon and Stable

Housed in an early-1900s horse stable, Spoon and Stable serves French-inspired dishes as well as other local and Midwest roots. The food is refined yet still unpretentious and approachable. Expect to dine on dishes like Genovese Duck Ragu and Bison Tartare.

Kramarczuk’s

Since the 1940s, the Kramarczuks have been creating quality food that locals have frequented for years. This popular eatery, which is both a bakery and a European restaurant, offers traditional Ukrainian dishes such as pierogies, cabbage rolls, and Borshch.

112 Eatery

If you’re looking for an eclectic and comforting menu of New American food in Minneapolis, look no further than 112 Eatery. Residents and visitors alike keep coming back to this restaurant for its Gnocchi with Lobster and Arrabbiata Sauce and Tagliatelle with foie gras meatballs.

Alma

Alma is known for its casual, laid-back vibe, delicious food, and craft cocktails. While the tasting menu changes seasonally, the commitment to quality ingredients remains unchanged. If you’re ever in the Minneapolis area, dine at this restaurant. Be sure to make a reservation!

Al’s Breakfast

Who doesn’t love an excellent diner-style breakfast at an award-winning restaurant? Al’s Breakfast has made a name for itself with dishes like its special scrambles and variety of omelets.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©Davel5957 / E+ via Getty Images.

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Atlanta is the capital city of Georgia and is known for many incredible attractions. It is the birthplace of Coca-Cola, invented in 1886 by pharmacist John S. Pemberton, and visitors can learn about the most popular soda in the U.S. by visiting the World of Coca-Cola. Visitors can also check out Truist Park, home of the Atlanta Braves, visit the Botanical Gardens, Centennial Olympic Park, the Georgia Aquarium, or the High Museum of Art.

After a day of activities, you’ll have worked up an appetite and the city has a variety of excellent dinner choices. To help with the selections, we’ve put together a list of must-visit restaurants in Atlanta with James Beard recognition, as well as a few honorable mentions. No matter which one you opt for, you’re sure to be satisfied. (While you’re there, maybe you should check out these thrift stores too.)

The Busy Bee Café

This unassuming restaurant in Atlanta may be small but it serves award-winning food. If you’re in the area, be sure to try their “famous” fried chicken. You’ll be glad you did!

Miller Union

A restaurant that serves seasonal, farm-fresh food? Count us in! With an extensive list of wines and food to choose from, we’re sure you’ll want to visit this spot again and again.

Bacchanalia

This chic restaurant offers a four-course menu and a vibe like no other. If you’re on the hunt for fine dining, unforgettable cuisine, and a modern ambiance, be sure to make a reservation at this spot.

The Dining Room at The Ritz-Carlton

We are not surprised this made the list. With a name like the Ritz-Carlton, you know you’re going to get not only delicious food but an experience that will make you a fan of this hotel collection.

Staplehouse

This restaurant grew in popularity for good reason. Not only do they offer an experience that makes you feel as if you’re dining at a top-tier spot, but it also feels surprisingly homey. Add this popular restaurant to your list.

Gunshow

This isn’t your traditional dim-sum restaurant. While they are known for their creative menu of Asian cuisine, you’re going to find a more eclectic vibe at this well-known eatery.

Ticonderoga Club

Seafood, sandwiches, and inventive cocktails are what give this spot its popularity. While it may have not won the top award, it was definitely nominated for a good reason. We recommend stopping here the next time you’re in Atlanta.

Heirloom Market BBQ

Last but not least, who doesn’t love a good barbecue spot? Especially when it has a creative Asian twist to it. Locals and visitors are like flock to this popular eatery and we’re certain you will too.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©xavierarnau / E+ via Getty Images.

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Often referred to as the Crossroads of the West, Salt Lake City is home to many outstanding activities for those who enjoy both indoor and outdoor activities. From the Natural History Museum and the Utah Museum of Fine Arts to the Red Butte Garden, the Great Salt Lake, and the Little Cottonwood and City Creek Canyons. But the city is also home to incredible Michelin-star-worthy dining that you'll want to check out.

While there are several upscale restaurants to choose from, none currently have a Michelin Star. This isn't because they aren't worthy, but because currently Michelin only has a few locations in the U.S. that have a Michelin Guide, and Salt Lake City is not one of them. (Fun fact – Utah does have Michelin stars but they are for travel destinations.)

The Beehive State may not currently have a Michelin Guide, but if Michelin did create one, these are some of the top restaurants with Michelin-star-worthy dining in Salt Lake City that would likely make the cut.

Michelin-Star-Worthy Dining in Salt Lake City

If you look into Michelin Stars in Utah, you may notice that the state did earn three Michelin Stars- but surprisingly, they’re not for restaurants. Since the original Michelin Guide was designed for travelers, it included information about hotels and other destinations as well. The restaurant portion quickly gained popularity, but you can still find hotel recommendations on the Michelin site.

In 2018, Utah became the first U.S. state to receive three Michelin Stars, but for its National Parks, not restaurants. Like the Michelin Restaurant Guides, the Michelin Travel Guides also include a three-star rating system for travel destinations. Even though Salt Lake City hasn’t specifically been recognized for its restaurants or tourist destinations, there are many reasons to visit the city. It’s home to many delicious high-class restaurants.

If Michelin decided to create a guide for restaurants in Salt Lake City, here are some of the restaurants that could make the list:

• Table X
• Valter’s Osteria
• Log Haven
• HSL
• Bambara Salt Lake City

With a growing food scene and farm-to-table movement in Utah, there are numerous restaurants in Salt Lake City that offer a unique twist on some American as well as international classics. Let's take a closer look at what makes each restaurant unique.

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Table X

From the cozy, rustic atmosphere to the impressive cuisine, Table X is one of the top restaurants in Salt Lake City. While Table X is a modern American restaurant, the concept and menu are unique enough to make it indistinguishable from other similar restaurants. 

Table X is a luxury restaurant that still manages to feel warm and welcoming. With a distinguished tasting menu to provide guests with the full dining experience, the talented staff carefully crafts each menu item.

All of the food at Table X, from the bread to your main course, is made fresh in the kitchen and they source many of the ingredients from their own garden. When you visit for dinner, you can choose from the five or seven-course tasting menu. You'll find items such as the Mushroom and Rice Soup, Grand Teton Leg of Lamb, or the House Made Campanelle Pasta. Due to the quality service and excellent cuisine, Table X was a semi-finalist for the James Beard Award.

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Valter’s Osteria

This upscale Italian restaurant in Salt Lake City is one you don't want to miss. Valter's Osteria manages to offer both a relaxing ambiance and a vibrant, lively atmosphere. The restaurant is meant to be a modern version of a Tuscan retreat, and you’re nearly transported to Tuscany when you walk through the doors. 

When you visit Valter’s Osteria, you can enjoy a meal and a drink at the full bar or book a private dining experience for a more intimate meal. This restaurant focuses on authenticity and sharing meals with friends and family.

Start your night with a Caesar Salad for Two or a Chopped Agnelli Salad Per Vittorio. On the menu, there’s a wide range of soups, salads, pasta, and other traditional meals. You can try the Spaghetti Carbonara with homemade pancetta in an egg, cream, and parmesan sauce. You can also try one of the recommended dishes, such as the Pasta Al Forno Vera or the Risotto of the Day.

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Log Haven

From the beautiful views to the intimate atmosphere, Log Haven is the ultimate destination if you're looking for a romantic dinner in Salt Lake City. Even the history of Log Haven is as romantic as the atmosphere of the restaurant.

Over 100 years ago, L.F. Rains created the hideaway for his wife as an anniversary gift. After being sold and purchased several times, Margo Provost decided to turn the building into a restaurant in 1994. Numerous local publications have rated Log Haven as the Most Romantic Restaurant in Utah.

While Log Haven is an excellent place for private events and weddings, you can also stop by for a delicious dinner. Led by Executive Chef Dave Jones, there are numerous shared plates, entrees, and sides on the menu. You might enjoy the Tuna Tartare with miso-sesame tuile and seaweed salad or the Jalapeño Queso Fresco Crab Cakes with lime, avocado, and mango salad. Your evening wouldn’t be complete without enjoying the Maple Crème Brûlée or Warm French Chocolate Cake for dessert.

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HSL

Before opening this restaurant, the owners of HSL opened Handle in Park City, Utah. HSL combines the best parts of the first restaurant with some new offerings and a different experience catered to the crowd in downtown Salt Lake City.

Unlike some of the higher-class restaurants in the area, HSL offers a laid-back feel without a specific dress code. Their focus is on creative American cuisine, wines, and cocktails. Everything on the menu at HSL is sourced locally with many organic ingredients. At HSL, the staff is also able to cater to specific dietary restrictions. Melissa Gray and Cody Derrick of City Home Collective came up with the concept of HSL; the restaurant’s team also includes Executive Chef Briar Handly and Meagan Nash.

Many of the items on HSL’s menu change with the seasons. During the fall, you might find items like the Duck with slow-roasted cabbage or the Lamb with summer root vegetables and watercress.

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Bambara Salt Lake City

The vibrant atmosphere and excellent service make Bambara Salt Lake City a restaurant worthy of recognition. However, the delectable cuisine is what makes Bambara an unforgettable experience.

When you dine at Bambara, you'll enjoy a memorable experience no matter the occasion. They offer a wide range of small plates, entrees, and craft cocktails. Bambara Salt Lake City is located in the luxurious Hotel Monaco.

Some of their signature items include the Coffee Crusted Rocky Mountain Elk or the Scallops a la Plancha with butter pecan puree and quinoa. All of the menu items at Bambara are based on the local flavors of Salt Lake City.

Most Luxurious Restaurants in Salt Lake City

Whether you’re local to Utah or passing through Salt Lake City, you’re likely looking for some delicious restaurants to stop by. Some of the best destinations and restaurants are located in this vibrant city. A trip to Salt Lake City has everything you could ask for, from beautiful scenery to top-quality restaurants.

If you’re looking for Michelin Star Restaurants in Salt Lake City, there isn’t a Salt Lake City or Utah Michelin Guide yet, but some of the restaurants on this list could make it in the future.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©f11photo/Shutterstock.com.

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Every decade can be remembered for the incredible things it gave us but the 1980s was something else. It was an era known for it’s positivity, a sense of optimism and great outlook towards the future, a decade where anything was possible and people were encouraged to dream big. And for these iconic restaurants of the 1980s, dreaming big was what they did.

Family-friendly dining in America during the ’80s was a remarkable time. The restaurant choices seemed to be innumerable, with various corporate and franchised locations popping up nationwide. However, boutique restaurants also seemed to

The 1980s were a remarkable era for family-friendly dining in America. Numerous restaurants flourished during this time, with a multitude of corporate and franchised locations springing up across the country. However, as locally owned boutique restaurants begam to build a following in cities nationwide, which caused these iconic chain restaurants to fall from favor.

Here are seven iconic restaurants of the 1980s that are almost extinct.

Steak & Ale

• Founded in 1966 by Norman Brinker
• Filed Chapter 7 bankruptcy in 2008 and closed for good
• Had as many as 280 locations in the 1980s
• Announced in April 2024 that Steak & Ale is being revived

Howard Johnson’s

• Began as a drug store/soda fountain
• The first restaurant in 1929 by 32-year-old Howard Deering Johnson
• HoJo’s was the largest American restaurant chain in the 1950s and ’60s, with more than 1,000 restaurants by 1979
• Today, after multiple company ownership changes, only one Howard Johnson’s restaurant is still in operation

Bonanza Steakhouse

• Founded in 1963 by Dan Blocker, who played “Hoss” on the show Bonanza
• First location opened in Westport, Connecticut
• Peaked in 1989 with nearly 600 locations
• As of April 2024, only three Bonanza locations remain in the U.S.

D’Lites

• Founded in 1978 in Norcross, GA
• Brought a nutritious flavor to fast food
• More than 100 stores open by 1985
• By end of 1986, all were closed due to bankruptcy, caused in large part by the fact other fast food restaurants began offering more nutritious options

Chi-Chi’s

• Founded in Richfield, MN, in 1975
• Co-founder’s wife’s nickname was Chi Chi
• Rose in popularity in the 1980s, and had 210 locations by 1995
• Filed for bankruptcy in October 2003
• In November 2003, Chi-Chi’s had the largest hepatitis A outbreak in American history

Rax Roast Beef

• Peaked in the 1980s with more than 500 locations
• The company has declared bankruptcy more than once
• As of 2024, there are only six Rax locations still in operation

ShowBiz Pizza

• The first ShowBiz Pizza opened in March of 1980 in Kansas City, Missouri
• The “house band” was called the Rock-afire Explosion
• By 1981, there were 90 ShowBiz Pizza locations — 42 franchises and 48 company-owned
• Today, there are only a handful of ShowBiz locations still open, none of which are in the U.S.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©"Tichnor Quality Views," Reg. U. S. Pat. Off. Made Only by Tichnor Bros., Inc., Boston, Mass., Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons.

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Nashville is known as the “Music City,” and country music goes hand-in-hand with the popular capital city of Tennessee. Home to the Grand Ole Opry and the Country Music Hall of Fame, Nashville has a vibrant live music scene but it’s also the birthplace of Nashville hot chicken, a fiery, spicy, seasoned fried chicken known for its unique blend of spices.

Nashville hot chicken aside, the Music City has many top-notch restaurants. Several have been nominated for the James Beard Award and many have received the distinctive honor. These restaurants are local favorites, and for good reason. Next time you’re in Nashville, check out these 3 James Beard award-winning restaurants and 4 honorable mentions that are definitely worth trying.

City House

Tucked away on an unassuming street in Germantown is City House. This popular spot serves more than just Italian food, it’s the kind of cuisine that we’ll make you want to come back for more. With its homemade ingredients and Southern flair, it’s a favorite of locals

Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack

This restaurant is known for having some of the best hot chicken in town. The famous recipe and love for chicken has been around for nearly 100 years, and they don’t seem to be going anywhere anytime soon. Lucky for both residents and visitors, as they can’t seem to get enough!

Arnold’s Country Kitchen

If you’re looking for Southern soul food in the Nashville area, look no further! Arnold’s Country Kitchen has made it into numerous top publications and has even been featured on the popular show, “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives”. It’s just that good. Served cafeteria style, this eatery has been a staple in Nashville for many years.

Bastion

Moving on to trendy and rustic, Bastion is one Nashville haunt that you can’t pass up when in the Music City. While it may not have one the top James Beard award, it was still a nominee and for good reason. It has an extensive bar with creative cocktails as well as a reservation-only tasting menu all in a warehouse-style setting.

Rolf and Daughters

Similar to the vibe of Bastion with its inventive cocktails and trendy dishes, Rolf and Daughters has become a local favorite. From its rigatoni with pork ragu to its dry aged beef tartare, you can’t go wrong with any dish at this spot. Not to mention its quaint yet creative list of desserts that you can’t pass up!

Henrietta Red

If you’re in the mood for oysters or just seafood in general, Henrietta Red is your go-to. Situated in Germantown, this restaurant is know for its simplicity and fresh ingredients. Order from the raw bar and try their extensive selection of oysters, or try out the dinner menu complete with seafood—and non-seafood items—for you to enjoy.

Husk

Finally, we’re throwing another Southern restaurant into the mix—but with a twist. Located in an historic mansion, Husk is like no other in that it serves your favorite Southern cuisine but in a creative way. Try their pimento cheese alongside benne seed wafers or even the Manchester farms quail with sweet corn and jalapeño.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©Arina P Habich/Shutterstock.com.

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The Michelin Star is the preeminent award in the restaurant world, an indicator to everyone, from diners to critics to industry peers, that a particular establishment is one of the most prestigious restaurants in the world. What began more than a century ago as a small guide for travelers has evolved into one of the most highly respected rating systems globally. Stars are awarded annually.

But Michelin doesn't have a guide for every city in the U.S. As of 2023, there are seven Michelin locations across the country, although Michelin is always searching for new establishments to add and your city could one day make the cut.

Here are the top US cities for Michelin-Starred restaurants and how these stars are awarded.

What Is A Michelin Star?

Throughout the culinary world, there are plenty of food critics that chefs and restaurant owners would like the attention of. Although to many chefs, their profession is an art form and they don’t cook simply to gain the attention of any critics, a positive review in a well-known publication can go a long way. Out of all the awards in the restaurant industry, the highest honor for a restaurant or chef is a Michelin Star.

The Michelin Star Guide was started in France by the Michelin Tire Company. It was originally a guide for travelers that included information such as maps and how to change a tire. The first guide was created in 1900. It wasn't until 1920 that a new guide was launched and sold for around 8 US dollars.

This new and improved Michelin Guide included hotels and restaurants. Once the restaurant portion became increasingly popular, Michelin recruited a team of inspectors to review restaurants for the guide. Thus, the Michelin Star was born. By 1936, restaurants could receive up to 3 stars and there were criteria for each score. 

Michelin Stars are awarded to the highest quality restaurants that meet the Michelin Star standards. Restaurants are evaluated according to the following criteria:

• Quality of ingredients and products
• Harmony of flavors
• Mastery of techniques
• Chef’s personality
• Consistency of the food and restaurant after multiple visits

There are some aspects of a restaurant that are not considered as part of the rating. For example, a restaurant’s decor or service does not contribute to whether or not the restaurant is awarded a Michelin Star. 

Who Decides Which Restaurants Make the Cut?

Which restaurants get chosen is decided by a team of Michelin Inspectors. The people who evaluate restaurants are full-time employees and all have previous experience in the restaurant or hospitality industry.

These inspectors remain anonymous to keep the competition fair and work together to decide on the best restaurants.

When Are Michelin Stars Awarded?

If a restaurant in one of the cities or states with a Michelin Star Guide doesn’t get chosen, there’s always next year. The Michelin Stars are annual awards and every year, new restaurants are sought out to add to the list. They also reassess the restaurants that previously received a star to ensure they still meet the criteria.

Even though many restaurants across the country may be worthy of receiving this prestigious rating, there are currently only Michelin Star Guides in seven different US cities or states.

The Meaning Behind Michelin Stars

When restaurants are awarded a Michelin Star, they can receive 1, 2, or 3 stars depending on the quality of the restaurant. Here’s a closer look at what each star means:

• 1 Star
  If a restaurant is awarded 1 Michelin Star, this means that the ingredients and food at the restaurant are of the highest standard.
• 2 Stars
  When a restaurant receives 2 Michelin Stars, that means the personality and expertise of the chef are evident through the food.
• 3 Stars
  3 Michelin Stars is the highest award. When Michelin awards a restaurant 3 stars, it means they have an excellent chef who’s likely one of the best in the industry.

US Cities With Michelin Star Restaurants

Across the United States, there are numerous restaurants with delicious food and amazing chefs. Even though many restaurants may be worthy of a Michelin Star, there are currently only seven different U.S. guides.

Colorado Michelin Guide

Colorado‘s Michelin Guide was announced on September 12, 2023. The Colorado Michelin Guide focuses on Aspen, Snowmass Village, Boulder, Denver, Vail, and Beaver Creek Resort.

Some notable entries from Colorado's guide include:

• Beckon
  Located in Denver's trendy RiNo district, Beckon is an 18-seat restaurant that features a quarterly rotating tasting menu.
• Frasca Food and Wine
  Adds Boulder's food scene to the Michelin Guide for Colorado. Frasca Food and Wine is Italian but focuses on the specific region of Friuli Venezia Giulia.
• Bosq
  Is a contemporary restaurant from Aspen. The highlight is that it focuses on local items that have been foraged or farmed from local farms in the Rocky Mountains.
  

Atlanta Michelin Guide

The newest Michelin Guide as of October 2023. Restaurants were announced on October 24, with five picking up one star. If you're looking to try some of the restaurants on Michelin's list, you can try getting reservations at Atlas, Bacchanalia, Hayakawa, Lazy Betty, or Mujo.

They'll likely all be very busy. Another option is to try the restaurants awarded a Bib Gourmand designation in the city.

California Michelin Guide

Some noteworthy restaurants on California's Michelin Guide include:

• Addison
  Addison is a contemporary restaurant in San Diego with 3 Michelin Stars. Led by Chef William Bradley, this restaurant combines international inspiration with the local, contemporary feel of California cuisine.
• The French Laundry
  The French Laundry is a 3 Michelin Star restaurant in Yountville, California with exceptional French cuisine. Chef Keller brings a signature flavor to every unique dish.
• Benu
  Benu is a 3 Michelin Star restaurant in San Francisco. This oasis in the middle of a busy city serves delectable Asian cuisine with techniques perfected by Chef Corey Lee.

Chicago Michelin Guide

One of the most famous foodie cities in America got Michelin's attention. Here are some standouts we recommend:

• Alinea
  Alinea is a modern restaurant in Chicago and is the only Chicago restaurant with 3 Michelin Stars. Dining at Alinea is more of an experience than just a meal, with Executive Chef Douglas Alley leading the way.
• Oriole
  Oriole is a contemporary American restaurant in Chicago with 2 Michelin Stars. After a substantial renovation, this restaurant resurfaced even better than ever under the guidance of Chef Noah Sandoval. 
• Smyth
  Smyth is a modern restaurant in Chicago with 2 Michelin Stars. With a team led by Chefs John Shields and Karen Urie Shields, they serve praise-worthy entrees that are impressive even without the addition of luxury ingredients.

New York City Michelin Guide

Arguably America's most famous city, nobody should be surprised that New York City made the cut. Here are some great Michelin restaurants to try in the Big Apple:

• Eleven Madison Park
  Eleven Madison Park is a contemporary New York City restaurant with 3 Michelin Stars. With a focus on unique, custom-made cuisine, they offer a plant-based menu that’s sure to impress anyone fortunate enough to dine at Eleven Madison Park.
• Per Se
  Per Se is a contemporary French restaurant in New York City with 3 Michelin Stars. This extraordinary restaurant has two menus, one of which is vegetarian.
• Chef’s Table at Brooklyn Fare
  Chef’s Table at Brooklyn Fare is a contemporary restaurant in New York City with 3 Michelin Stars. They only offer about 13 small dishes, but Chef César Ramirez’s spectacular creations are more than enough.

Washington DC Michelin Guide

America's capital is certainly not short on great restaurants. Here are some that we, and Michelin, recommend:

• Pineapple and Pearls
  Pineapple and Pearls is a contemporary restaurant in Washington D.C. This restaurant is as unique as its name, with the guidance of Chef Aaron Silverman and a style inspired by the former Studio 54 nightclub.
• Minibar
  Minibar is a contemporary restaurant in Washington DC with 2 Michelin Stars. This hidden gem has a passionate team and unique whimsy-inspired creations.
• Fiola
  Fiola is a contemporary Italian restaurant in Washington D.C. with a retro feel. It combines both classic and modern elements with a unique setup and cuisine.

Florida Michelin Guide

Another one of the most popular travel destinations in the United States, Florida has some incredible restaurants. Three that you should try are:

• L'Atelier de Joël Robuchon Miami
  L'Atelier de Joël Robuchon Miami is a contemporary French restaurant in Miami, Florida. This restaurant has 2 Michelin Stars and offers a range of elegant dishes.
• Koya
  Koya is a Japanese American restaurant in Tampa, Florida with 1 Michelin Star. The unique setup of this restaurant is only one small part of what makes it a prestigious choice.
• The Surf Club Restaurant
  The Surf Club Restaurant is a 1 Michelin Star restaurant in Surfside, Florida. This restaurant has the décor and style of a private getaway while offering elegant and sensational meals.

Are There Michelin Worthy Restaurants in Other States?

The Michelin Star is the kind of award that any restaurant or chef would love to have, but for many, it’s not currently possible. After all, there are only Michelin Star Guides for seven different locations in the United States so far. The addition of Colorado and Atlanta opens up a world of possibilities for chefs and restaurant owners in those areas.

Even though the Michelin Guide only awards stars in certain locations, that doesn’t mean that there aren’t worthy restaurants in other cities and states. In fact, many luxury restaurants meet the criteria, and these restaurants may become a part of the Michelin Guide when Michelin adds more locations in the future.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©Zsu Badak/Shutterstock.com.

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Minneapolis is the coldest major city in the continental U.S., a claim to fame that might turn off many people. However, its reputation as a city with an excellent cultural scene, vibrant arts and theatre, and delicious dining entices people to visit and keep returning. Like any highly-populated city, Minneapolis has several award-winning restaurants. Yet, as great as they are, none have the coveted Michelin Star.

You might question whether Minneapolis simply lacks restaurants deserving of this prestigious honor. The answer is a resounding no. Minneapolis doesn't have any Michelin Star restaurants because there is no Michelin Guide for Minneapolis.

There are currently only seven U.S. locations with Michelin Guides. Despite the lack of a Michelin Guide, some restaurants in Minneapolis may be worthy of a Michelin Star. Keep reading to find out which restaurants are deserving of the rating. 

Restaurants in Minneapolis That Are Michelin Worthy

Even though Michelin has yet to create a guide for Minnesota or Minneapolis, there are a handful of restaurants in the area that could make the cut. Locals from Minneapolis and the surrounding areas are proud of their local restaurants, including these Michelin-worthy establishments:

• Demi
• Travail Kitchen and Amusements
• Spoon and Stable
• Alma
• Fhima’s Minneapolis
• Petite Leon
• Borough

Each of these restaurants offers the quality of ingredients and consistency that Michelin looks for when evaluating restaurants. Let’s look closer at what makes each restaurant worthy of a star.

Demi

Demi is likely the first restaurant you’ll see mentioned by any Minneapolis local or foodie who has visited the area. When you think of fine dining in Minneapolis, Demi immediately comes to mind. At this unique restaurant, the staff focuses on serving delicious food with fresh, local ingredients as well as creative ingredients from around the country.

Due to the small dining area, you can only dine at Demi with a reservation. This only adds to the luxury and exclusive feel of the restaurant. Demi is open for dinner from Wednesday through Sunday each week, and reservations open at the beginning of the month.

Demi offers an ever-evolving menu that changes with the seasons, but you can get the full experience by choosing the Barrington Menu. The Barrington Menu is a 7-course tasting experience you can enjoy from the intimate kitchen counter. This gives you a full view of what’s going on behind the scenes while enjoying your delicious meal.

Travail Kitchen and Amusements

Travail Kitchen and Amusements offers a combination of fine dining and a relaxing atmosphere. Led by the culinary team of Mike Brown, Bob Gerken, and James Winberg, this restaurant has a menu inspired by local ingredients and French cuisine.

The team behind Travail Kitchen and Amusements was recognized for their efforts as James Beard semi-finalists. Now they’ve brought their talent to the unique menu of Travail Kitchen and Amusements. The Signature Chef’s Tasting Menu is one way to enjoy all that this luxury restaurant has to offer.

You can enjoy your meal from the Sky Lounge Rooftop if you please. No matter what entrée you choose, you'll be surprised by how delicious each item is. The menu is made up of signature dishes such as the ham hock with caviar, steak tartare, and the chocolate mousse with a coconut rice crispy.

Spoon and Stable

Spoon and Stable is a beautiful, New American restaurant in Minneapolis. At Spoon and Stable, the staff creates a memorable dining experience for each guest. The dining room, which was once a horse stable, is filled with natural light that creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

Chef Gavin Kaysen was raised in Minneapolis and always dreamed of opening his own restaurant back in his hometown. As a James Beard award-winning chef, his talent shines through in each delectable dish.

At Spoon and Stable, the cuisine is focused on local culture as well as the French cuisine Chef Gavin Kaysen is known for. Their dinner menu is full of sensational dishes, such as the Rigatoni with pork sausage ragu or the Scallops with crispy pancetta and Brussels sprouts. For dessert, try their Toffee Butter Cake or their Chocolate Earl Gray Torte.

Alma

Located in the heart of Minneapolis, Alma has a nationally recognized seasonal menu and is open for dinner only. Their menu features a variety of small plates, sandwiches, and desserts. Try their Seasonal Tasting Menu for the ultimate dining experience. This particular menu costs $95 per person.

Since 1999, this restaurant has offered an excellent dining experience. Their ingredients are locally sourced and they have close relationships with their suppliers and local farmers.

The seasonal dining experience includes 10 plated and shared dishes, with the option of adding an expert wine pairing. Their menu is seasonal, so make sure to check their website for the latest offerings. As of December 2023, some dishes on the seasonal tasting menu include Celery Root Soup with black truffle and Pan-roasted New York Strip with smoked cauliflower.

Fhima’s Minneapolis

At Fhima’s Minneapolis, you’ll find a bright, modern atmosphere with delicious meals inspired by French and Moroccan cuisine. Chef David Fhima is the visionary behind the restaurant. He partners with local farmers to source the highest-quality and freshest ingredients.

The atmosphere and concept behind Fhima’s was inspired by Chef David Fhima’s childhood. He grew up in an environment where cooking and eating were the center of the home, and he was inspired by a combination of French, Moroccan, Spanish, and Sicilian food in his family.

The bar within Fhima’s Minneapolis is historic and was previously run by some of the most well-known and recognized chefs in the country. You can enjoy the atmosphere at Fhima’s from the bar, which serves a variety of craft cocktails and wine. If you come for dinner, you’ll be delighted by some of the unique entrees on the menu, such as the Pulpo a la Gallega, which includes octopus, a potato crust, and paprika. Or you can choose something lighter, such as the Ras Al Hanout Cauliflower Salad with pomegranate, figs, and tahini cream.

Petite León

Petite León is another elegant restaurant in Minneapolis worthy of Michelin recognition. This establishment in south Minneapolis is considered a neighborhood bistro. Award-winning Chef Jorge Guzmán leads his team in the kitchen to create delicious meals inspired by his own love for food, especially related to his home state of Yucatán.

This bistro also specializes in perfect wine pairings and expertly crafted cocktails, with a team led by the Bar Manager and part-owner, Travis Serbus. Petite León has been recognized in a number of publications, including the New York Times and the Zagat Guide.

Their diverse menu includes unique dishes such as Steak Frites, with chili sauce and chipotle butter. They also offer refreshing cocktails, such as the Tennessee Hot, which includes lime, lemon, habanero, and soda.

Borough

From the time you walk into Borough, the atmosphere and lighting set the tone for an incredible night. Borough has been open since 2013, and the culinary team is led by Executive Chef Mike DeCamp.

The menu includes small plates that allow guests to explore multiple dishes on the menu, with cuisine inspired by the fresh, local, and seasonal flavors of Minnesota. Their dinner menu includes dishes such as the Cavatelli with carrot and goat butter and the Octopus with yam, soy, and cilantro.

If you want the most intimate and exclusive experience at Borough, you can dine at the Apartment. This restaurant experience combines the classic elegance of dining in a restaurant with the warmth and comfort of eating at home. The Apartment holds 22 guests and can be booked for private events or a private dining experience.

The Best Restaurants in An Underrated Food Scene

Some say that the food scene in Minneapolis is underrated, but the locals know that their city is home to a number of Michelin-worthy restaurants. If you've wondered about Michelin Star Restaurants in Minneapolis, remember that there isn't a guide for this city yet, but hopefully, Michelin will make its way to Minnesota in the future. When they do, some of these restaurants are sure to be considered.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©f11photo/Shutterstock.com.

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Louisiana has a rich history and culture comprised of a blend of French, Spanish, African, Native American, and Acadian influences which creates a unique mixture of Creole and Cajun cultures. The cuisine highlights this with many dishes showcasing regional specialties like gumbo, jambalaya, Étouffée, and crawfish. But one of the most famous cities is New Orleans, renowned for its Mardi Gras celebration, Bourbon Street, and Jazz.

It truly is a city unlike any other with an eclectic and creative food scene, comprised of many award-winning chefs and restaurants. With so many accolades, it only makes sense that Michelin would take note and bestow the legendary star on these establishments.

Yet, even though the Big Easy has such an incredible food scene filled with top-notch eateries, the city doesn't have any official Michelin Star Restaurants because Michelin has yet to rate any Louisiana cities. There are currently only a handful of Michelin Guides in the U.S. and the Bayou State is not one of them.

Michelin Star Restaurants in New Orleans

The Michelin Guide has been considered a prestigious and trustworthy rating system for restaurants for many years. Although the U.S. Michelin Guide isn't as popular as the Michelin Guide in other countries, chefs across America have still spent their entire careers seeking recognition from Michelin.

Currently, there are only a handful of locations in the United States with Michelin Guides, but they've added quite a few over the past couple of years.

Despite the award-winning restaurants in the city and its creative food scene, Michelin has yet to make its way to New Orleans. If Michelin did add a guide for New Orleans, here are some of the restaurants that could make the list:

• August
• Herbsaint
• Bayona
• Commander's Palace
• R'evolution
• GW Fins

Let's identify what makes each of the restaurants unique and what kind of delicious food you might find there.

August

When you mention fine dining and luxury experiences in New Orleans, August is often the first restaurant to come to mind. Bringing the luxury, elegance, and unique flavors of New Orleans to the fine dining experience, August is a contemporary Creole restaurant in the heart of New Orleans.

The menu focuses on dishes and ingredients that represent the creative and unique flavors of Louisiana. Like many of the most beautiful buildings in New Orleans, August is located within a historic French-Creole building and the atmosphere includes elegant architecture and daring details.

The inspiration for the menu items at August comes from Executive Chef Corey Thomas, who has studied cuisine all around the world. You can get the full experience of August with the Chef’s Tasting Menu. Or, you can select individual items from their regular dinner menu. Choices include amazing dishes like their red snapper and Wagyu Manhattan strip. For dessert, enjoy dishes like Fig Sticky Toffee Pudding and Earl Gray Pavlova.

Herbsaint

Herbsaint Bar and Restaurant is one of the top restaurants in New Orleans. Located on the historic St. Charles Avenue, Chef Tyler Spreen oversees the kitchen and menu, offering guests a combination of French, Southern, and Italian cuisine with fresh, seasonal ingredients.

The Times-Picayune has consistently featured Herbsaint as one of New Orleans's 10 Best Restaurants ever since the list began in 2003. They’ve also been recognized as one of the “Best Restaurants in America” by Eater National and one of the “Top 50 Restaurants in America” by Gourmet Magazine.

Some of the signature items on the Herbsaint menu include the Louisiana Shrimp and Fish Ceviche and the Louisiana Jumbo Shrimp with mustard greens and fresh herbs. The Grilled Credo Farms Chicken with butternut squash is another great choice. You don’t want to miss out on dessert when dining at Herbsaint, especially with choices such as the Banana Brown Butter Tart or the Fried Blueberry Hand Pies.

Bayona

Regina Keever and Chef Susan Spicer opened Bayona in 1990, and since then it has continued to be one of the most well-loved restaurants in the French Quarter. While the atmosphere at Bayona is cozy and comfortable, each menu item is perfectly prepared and made with fresh, local ingredients.

The award-winning food and extensive wine list at Bayona has gained recognition from publications around the world. Each menu item offers a unique and creative take on Louisiana cuisine. Their internationally-inspired menu includes traditional items with a twist based on influences worldwide.

The menu at Bayona changes with the seasons, but you can expect dishes like the Eggplant Caviar with feta and herbed croutons or the Veal Sweetbreads with sherry mustard butter to start. Some main courses include the Duck a l'orange with sautéed greens and sweet potato purée or the Mississippi Rabbit with smothered greens and creole mustard sauce.

Commander's Palace

You can’t create a list of fine dining restaurants in New Orleans without mentioning the famous Commander’s Palace. This well-known Creole restaurant offers both fun and elegance in a whimsical setting. Commander's Palace opened in 1893 and since then, it has won seven James Beard Awards for its excellent cuisine.

Commander's Palace has gained recognition in numerous publications over the years, such as being named “The South’s Best Restaurant” by Southern Living and making the list of “The 40 Most Important Restaurants” by Food and Wine. The kitchen staff at Commander's Palace is currently led by Executive Chef Meg Bickford. With many years of experience working in Louisianan kitchens, Chef Meg is more than familiar with the local flavors of Louisiana.

The menu at Commander's Palace is comprised of items that merge modern New Orleans flavors with classic Louisiana flavors. You’ll find items such as Roasted Bone Marrow and Louisiana Wild White Shrimp. Other great items include the Pecan Crusted Gulf Fish and the Collard Green Cannelonni.

R’evolution

Located in the French Quarter of New Orleans, R’evolution is a testament to the rich history of Louisiana and all of the unique flavors found in New Orleans. R’evolution offers modern interpretations of classic Cajun and Creole cuisine in a relaxing and luxurious setting.

In addition to its diverse menu of traditional Cajun and Creole-inspired cuisine, you can also visit the R’evolution Bar, where you’ll find classic drinks inspired by pre-prohibition cocktails. R’evolution has also built a world-class wine cellar with over 10,000 bottles of wine from across the globe.

Their dinner menu includes classics such as Louisiana Seafood Gumbo with scallions and rice. You can also choose other entrees, such as the Smoked Duck with an apple cider glaze or the Rack of Venison with a chickory chili rub.

GW Fins

Some of the best seafood in New Orleans can be found at GW Fins, an upscale and creative seafood restaurant in the French Quarter. Owned by New Orleans local Gary Wollerman and his family, GW Fins has remained one of the highest-rated restaurants in the city since it opened in 2001.

Seafood in New Orleans doesn’t get any fresher than the daily catch at GW Fins. The staff prints a new menu each day to reflect the freshest catches. Each chef is also a master butcher and is capable of using every aspect of the fish to create a delectable meal.

The menu at GW Fins changes daily, but you may find some items such as Snapper Ceviche with sweet potato chips and habanero sorbet, or the Firecracker Tuna Tacos with ginger slaw and an avocado aioli. The restaurant encourages patrons to call with any questions about their menu.

Restaurants You Don't Want to Miss in New Orleans

Whether you're local to Louisiana or passing through New Orleans on vacation, it's the kind of city you don't want to miss. Not only is New Orleans home to numerous music festivals and renowned events like Mardi Gras, but it also has several fantastic restaurants.

There are no Michelin Star Restaurants in New Orleans because there isn't a Michelin Guide for New Orleans or Louisiana. However, there is always the chance that a New Orleans Guide will be added in the future. If Michelin decides to rate any restaurants in Louisiana, some of the top restaurants in this city are sure to make the list.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©Kruck20 / iStock via Getty Images.

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McDonald’s is a household name recognized throughout the world. Operating in 118 countries and territories, during the first quarter of 2024, the burger giant had more than $6 billion in sales. It may not be the place most people think of when they want healthy choices, but what started as a place to get hamburgers, fries, and shakes has evolved to offer a range of healthy menu options.

To determine what the healthy menu options at McDonald’s are, MomsWhoThink.com reviewed data on nutrition for menu items from MenuStat, a program of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute. McDonald’s food menu items with at least 50 calories were ranked based on the ratio of combined protein and dietary fiber to calories.

50. Honey Mustard Snack Wrap (Crispy)

• Protein: 14g
• Dietary fiber: 1g
• Calories: 330g
• Carbohydrates: 34g

49. Southern Style Chicken Biscuit (Regular Size Biscuit)

• Protein: 17g
• Dietary fiber: 2g
• Calories: 410g
• Carbohydrates: 41g

48. Bacon, Egg & Cheese Bagel

• Protein: 24g
• Dietary fiber: 3g
• Calories: 560g
• Carbohydrates: 56g

47. Mac Snack Wrap

• Protein: 15g
• Dietary fiber: 1g
• Calories: 330g
• Carbohydrates: 26g

46. McSkillet™ Burrito with Sausage

• Protein: 27g
• Dietary fiber: 3g
• Calories: 610g
• Carbohydrates: 44g

45. Chicken McNuggets (6 piece)

• Protein: 13g
• Dietary fiber: 1g
• Calories: 280g
• Carbohydrates: 18g

44. McRib

• Protein: 22g
• Dietary fiber: 3g
• Calories: 500g
• Carbohydrates: 44g

43. Chicken McNuggets (10 piece)

• Protein: 22g
• Dietary fiber: 2g
• Calories: 470g
• Carbohydrates: 30g

42. Sausage McMuffin with Egg

• Protein: 21g
• Dietary fiber: 2g
• Calories: 450g
• Carbohydrates: 30g

41. Big Mac

• Protein: 25g
• Dietary fiber: 3g
• Calories: 540g
• Carbohydrates: 45g

40. Chicken McNuggets (4 piece)

• Protein: 9g
• Dietary fiber: 1g
• Calories: 190g
• Carbohydrates: 12g

39. Premium Crispy Chicken Classic Sandwich

• Protein: 24g
• Dietary fiber: 3g
• Calories: 510g
• Carbohydrates: 56g

38. Angus Deluxe Snack Wrap

• Protein: 20g
• Dietary fiber: 2g
• Calories: 410g
• Carbohydrates: 27g

37. Steak, Egg & Cheese Bagel

• Protein: 33g
• Dietary fiber: 3g
• Calories: 660g
• Carbohydrates: 56g

36. Premium Crispy Chicken Club Sandwich

• Protein: 31g
• Dietary fiber: 3g
• Calories: 620g
• Carbohydrates: 57g

35. Angus Chipotle BBQ Bacon Snack Wrap

• Protein: 21g
• Dietary fiber: 1g
• Calories: 400g
• Carbohydrates: 30g

34. Premium Crispy Chicken Ranch BLT Sandwich

• Protein: 27g
• Dietary fiber: 3g
• Calories: 540g
• Carbohydrates: 56g

33. Angus Mushroom & Swiss Snack Wrap

• Protein: 22g
• Dietary fiber: 2g
• Calories: 430g
• Carbohydrates: 27g

32. Hamburger

• Protein: 12g
• Dietary fiber: 2g
• Calories: 250g
• Carbohydrates: 31g

31. Angus Bacon & Cheese Snack Wrap

• Protein: 21g
• Dietary fiber: 1g
• Calories: 390g
• Carbohydrates: 28g

30. Cheeseburger

• Protein: 15g
• Dietary fiber: 2g
• Calories: 300g
• Carbohydrates: 33g

29. Chicken Selects Premium Breast Strips (3 pc)

• Protein: 23g
• Dietary fiber: 0g
• Calories: 400g
• Carbohydrates: 23g

28. Chicken Selects Premium Breast Strips (5 pc)

• Protein: 38g
• Dietary fiber: 0g
• Calories: 660g
• Carbohydrates: 39g

27. Angus Deluxe

• Protein: 40g
• Dietary fiber: 4g
• Calories: 750g
• Carbohydrates: 61g

26. Big N’ Tasty With Cheese

• Protein: 24g
• Dietary fiber: 3g
• Calories: 460g
• Carbohydrates: 37g

25. Big N’ Tasty

• Protein: 27g
• Dietary fiber: 3g
• Calories: 510g
• Carbohydrates: 38g

24. Angus Chipotle BBQ Bacon

• Protein: 45g
• Dietary fiber: 4g
• Calories: 800g
• Carbohydrates: 66g

23. Double Cheeseburger

• Protein: 25g
• Dietary fiber: 2g
• Calories: 440g
• Carbohydrates: 34g

22. McDouble

• Protein: 22g
• Dietary fiber: 2g
• Calories: 390g
• Carbohydrates: 33g

21. Angus Bacon & Cheese

• Protein: 45g
• Dietary fiber: 4g
• Calories: 790g
• Carbohydrates: 63g

20. Angus Mushroom & Swiss

• Protein: 44g
• Dietary fiber: 4g
• Calories: 770g
• Carbohydrates: 59g

19. Southern Style Crispy Chicken Sandwich

• Protein: 24g
• Dietary fiber: 1g
• Calories: 400g
• Carbohydrates: 39g

18. Quarter Pounder with Cheese

• Protein: 29g
• Dietary fiber: 3g
• Calories: 510g
• Carbohydrates: 40g

17. Egg McMuffin

• Protein: 18g
• Dietary fiber: 2g
• Calories: 300g
• Carbohydrates: 30g

16. Double Quarter Pounder with Cheese

• Protein: 48g
• Dietary fiber: 3g
• Calories: 740g
• Carbohydrates: 40g

15. Ranch Snack Wrap (Grilled)

• Protein: 18g
• Dietary fiber: 1g
• Calories: 270g
• Carbohydrates: 26g

14. Honey Mustard Snack Wrap (Grilled)

• Protein: 18g
• Dietary fiber: 1g
• Calories: 260g
• Carbohydrates: 27g

13. Chipotle BBQ Snack Wrap (Grilled)

• Protein: 18g
• Dietary fiber: 1g
• Calories: 260g
• Carbohydrates: 28g

12. Premium Southwest Salad with Crispy Chicken

• Protein: 26g
• Dietary fiber: 6g
• Calories: 430g
• Carbohydrates: 38g

11. Premium Grilled Chicken Club Sandwich

• Protein: 35g
• Dietary fiber: 4g
• Calories: 460g
• Carbohydrates: 43g

10. Premium Bacon Ranch Salad (without chicken)

• Protein: 9g
• Dietary fiber: 3g
• Calories: 140g
• Carbohydrates: 10g

9. Premium Southwest Salad (without chicken)

• Protein: 6g
• Dietary fiber: 6g
• Calories: 140g
• Carbohydrates: 20g

8. Premium Grilled Chicken Classic Sandwich

• Protein: 27g
• Dietary fiber: 4g
• Calories: 360g
• Carbohydrates: 41g

7. Premium Bacon Ranch Salad with Crispy Chicken

• Protein: 29g
• Dietary fiber: 3g
• Calories: 370g
• Carbohydrates: 20g

6. Premium Caesar Salad with Crispy Chicken

• Protein: 26g
• Dietary fiber: 3g
• Calories: 330g
• Carbohydrates: 20g

5. Premium Grilled Chicken Ranch BLT Sandwich

• Protein: 31g
• Dietary fiber: 4g
• Calories: 380g
• Carbohydrates: 41g

4. Premium Caesar Salad (without chicken)

• Protein: 7g
• Dietary fiber: 3g
• Calories: 90g
• Carbohydrates: 9g

3. Premium Southwest Salad with Grilled Chicken

• Protein: 30g
• Dietary fiber: 6g
• Calories: 320g
• Carbohydrates: 30g

2. Premium Bacon Ranch Salad with Grilled Chicken

• Protein: 33g
• Dietary fiber: 3g
• Calories: 260g
• Carbohydrates: 12g

1. Premium Caesar Salad with Grilled Chicken

• Protein: 30g
• Dietary fiber: 3g
• Calories: 220g
• Carbohydrates: 12g

The image featured at the top of this post is ©Allard1 / iStock Editorial via Getty Images.

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Hawaii is often thought of as a slice of paradise, celebrated for its breathtaking beaches, lush rainforests, and picturesque waterfalls, making it an ideal vacation destination. To make your trip even more memorable, indulge in some of the region's finest dining experiences. If you're looking for exceptional cuisine, you might turn to the Michelin Guide, a trusted source for discovering top-tier restaurants, and wonder if Hawaii is home to any Michelin Star establishments.

While there are restaurants in Hawaii that we think are worthy of a Michelin Star, there aren’t any official Michelin restaurants since there isn’t a Michelin Guide for Hawaii. Michelin only has a small selection of different guides for the U.S., although they added two new U.S. locations in 2023.

With the addition of two new guides last year, Michelin is always looking for restaurants worthy of achieving Michelin status. Even though there isn’t a Hawaii Michelin Guide yet, there's always the possibility for one in the future. If Michelin adds Hawaii to their growing list of U.S. locations, here are some of the restaurants we think should make the cut.

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Hawaii Restaurants Worthy of a Michelin Star

There are numerous fine dining restaurants in Hawaii that have the quality, food, and consistency necessary to receive a Michelin Star. Michelin Stars are based on specific criteria that include the quality of ingredients, harmony of flavors, mastery of techniques, the chef’s personality, and the consistency of the restaurant.

Restaurants that make it into the Michelin Guide can be awarded 1, 2, or 3 stars. Additionally, Michelin offers the Bib Gourmand award to restaurants that offer excellent food at moderate prices. Here are seven restaurants that could make the cut for a Hawaii Michelin Guide:

• La Mer
• Hokus
• Senia
• Spago
• La Vie
• ‘ULU Ocean Grill
• 53 by the Sea

Let’s examine what makes each restaurant worthy of the prestigious Michelin Star. 

La Mer

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Among all the delicious dining experiences in Hawaii, La Mer makes the top of the list. This luxury French restaurant in Honolulu is the only restaurant in Hawaii that has received the AAA Five Diamond Award and the Forbes 5 Star award.

It’s difficult to say which is more stunning, the delicious entrees or the breathtaking views of the Pacific. Each of the entrees at La Mer is fresh, locally sourced, and is a combination of tropical cuisine and French-inspired cuisine.

You may choose one of the delectable meals from their menu, such as the Chilean Sea Bass or the Filet de Boeuf, a perfectly cooked filet of beef complete with Foie Gras and truffle mashed potato drizzled in truffle sauce. They also have some garden vegetable plates for vegetarian diners.

Hoku's at the Kahala

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This beachside restaurant, located in the Kahala Hotel & Resort, is the premier place to have a memorable dinner in Hawaii. Each detail of the dining experience at Hoku's is meant to surprise and delight any guest who visits. The cozy atmosphere combines the luxury of a fine-dining experience with the comfort of a beachside resort. Nothing quite beats the view from your table.

At Hoku's, Chef Jonathan Mizukami leads the way to excellence. This culinary artisan perfected his craft in international Michelin Star Restaurants; at Hoku's, he combines the local island flavors of Hawaii with French cuisine.

In 2021-2022, Hokus received the recognition of Critic’s Choice Best Restaurant by the Ilima Awards. To get the full experience, you can try the Grand Tasting. The Grand Tasting includes a seven-course culinary journey through the local farms, fields, and fisheries of Hawaii.

Senia

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Senia is a play on the word xenia, an ancient Greek take on hospitality. This name is a perfect introduction to the welcoming atmosphere of Senia, where you are invited to share a meal with friends and family alike. Expertly-crafted drinks and delicious entrees are the perfect combination in this neighborhood restaurant in Honolulu.

The cuisine at Senia combines the fresh, local ingredients found in Hawaii with the limitless possibilities of American-inspired cuisine. On Friday and Saturday nights, a limited number of guests can get the full Senia experience with the Chef’s Counter Tasting Menu.

This exclusive seating option is hands-down the best way to take in the atmosphere and cuisine of Senia. You’ll witness Chef Anthony Rush lead his team throughout the dining experience; from this view, you get to witness how the magic happens behind the scenes. Pulling back the curtain to the kitchen of Senia will leave you in awe of the careful preparation that each dish requires.

Spago

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As a AAA Four Diamond Restaurant and winner of the Forbes Four Star Award, dining at Spago is an experience you won’t want to miss. Located within the Four Seasons Hotel in Maui, Hawaii, this restaurant is inspired by the creativity of Master Chef Wolfgang Puck.

The cuisine at Spago combines some of the local flavors of Hawaii with Wolfgang Puck’s classic dishes. On the menu, you’ll find elegant items such as Asian Pear and Burrata, Kaluga Caviar, and Seafood Carnaroli Risotto. The Seafood Risotto is served with a house-made tomato sauce.

As part of the luxury dining experience, your server will help you find the perfect wine pairing for your meal. You can also choose your favorite drink from the specialty cocktail menu. Both the main dining room at Spago and the private dining area offer breathtaking views of the ocean.

La Vie

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La Vie is another exquisite restaurant you have to experience to understand. With a menu inspired by the local Hawaiian cuisine, there are few things more delicate and fresh than the entrees at La Vie.

Start off with the Caramelized Foie Gras, served with baby fennel, green grapes, and macadamia nut. Next up, choose between entrees such as the Dry-Aged Sonoma Duck Breast or the A5 Miyazaki Wagyu, both of which will leave your taste buds buzzing.

The style of the menus at La Vie is French-inspired, with a twist of seasonal ingredients. If you plan on eating in the dining room, it's best to secure your table with a reservation. However, they also have open seating in the elegant Bar Room, where walk-ins are welcome. Parties of seven or more will need to inquire about seating via e-mail.

‘ULU Ocean Grill

Another Four Seasons restaurant makes the list with the award-winning ‘ULU Ocean Grill. Like many other restaurants on the island, this restaurant focuses on using fresh, local ingredients. At ‘ULU Ocean Grill, 75% of the food is locally sourced from Hawaii. That makes this restaurant an excellent place to experience local cuisine.

‘ULU Ocean Grill offers many signature dishes on their menu. You might choose the Ahi Tuna Poke, which is prepared tableside, or the Ulu Bao Buns with braised pork belly. Don’t let the welcoming atmosphere of ‘ULU Ocean Grill fool you. The chef takes every dish seriously and each dish brings together local flavors with an Asian twist.

The ‘ULU Ocean Grill also offers a Sushi Lounge menu complete with some of the ‘ULU specialties. From the Chef’s Assorted Sashimi to the Hualalai Sushi Trio, this is no ordinary sushi. After enjoying the selections from ‘ULU Ocean Grill, you’ll see sushi in a completely different light.

53 By the Sea

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53 by the Sea is the perfect place to dine in elegance with beautiful views of Waikiki. As the winner of numerous awards, this restaurant remains one of the favorite places for locals and tourists alike to dine in luxury.

As you walk into 53 by the Sea, the breathtaking grand staircase is just the beginning of the beauty you’ll experience in this unique restaurant. The philosophy behind this restaurant is superb hospitality, professionalism, and preparation.

These values are evident in each detail of the surroundings and the delicate preparation of each dish. Their menu combines the best seafood and meat Hawaii has to offer with fresh, local ingredients. At dinner, you can start off with the Ahi Tartare and Caviar. Then, move on to dishes such as the Seafood Coconut Curry or choose the fresh catch of the day.

Finding the Best Restaurants in Hawaii

Anyone who has visited Hawaii, or even had the pleasure of living there, knows it’s an experience like no other. No matter how much time you spend on the island, visiting some of the most elegant restaurants is a necessary part of the experience.

If Michelin adds a guide for Hawaii in the future, the Michelin inspectors just might stop by these highly-rated restaurants in Hawaii.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©Benny Marty/Shutterstock.com.

The post Hawaiian Restaurants That Deliver Michelin-Worthy Dining appeared first on Moms Who Think.

Perched along the Ohio River, Cincinnati is a vibrant city known for its unique culture, dynamic nightlife, and striking architecture. While it has long been renowned for its sports teams and thriving music scene, its culinary landscape is quickly earning the spotlight. If you're visiting the area, you might find yourself wondering if Cincinnati has any Michelin Star restaurants.

Despite the growing popularity of many restaurants in Cincinnati, there aren't currently any Michelin Star restaurants. As prestigious as the star rating is, Michelin only rates restaurants in seven different U.S. locations, as of early 2024.

Only Michelin knows what the future holds for the Michelin Guide, but they have claimed they’re always looking for new areas to visit. Keep reading to find out what Cincinnati restaurants could make the cut if Michelin created an Ohio or Cincinnati guide.

Restaurants in Cincinnati Worthy of a Michelin Star

Considering Cincinnati was named one of America's Next Great Food Cities by Food & Wine, there's a possibility that Michelin could create an Ohio Guide at some point. Not to mention there are other cities in the state, like Cleveland, that have some excellent restaurants as well.

When Michelin does decide to create a new guide, the anonymous Michelin Inspectors will visit any restaurants that may make the cut. These inspectors visit each potential restaurant multiple times to determine if they’re worthy of the prestigious Michelin Star rating.

If Michelin did add a guide for Cincinnati or Ohio, here are some of the restaurants that may be Michelin-worthy:

• Boca
• Salazar Restaurant
• Sotto
• Red Feather Kitchen
• Mita’s Restaurant
• Losanti

Even though they don’t officially have a Michelin Star, these restaurants are worth visiting and could end up in a future Michelin Guide. Keep reading to find out more about what makes each restaurant unique.

Boca

Boca provides guests with a dining experience you won’t find anywhere else. If you’re looking for something elegant, luxurious, and different from what you’re used to, visit Boca for a meal. When you search for restaurants with fine dining in Cincinnati, Boca is one of the first you’ll hear about.

The staff at Boca uses timeless techniques to surprise, delight, and amaze each guest throughout the entire evening. Ever since the opening of Boca in 2001, they have helped set a standard of culinary excellence in Cincinnati. Chef and Owner David Falk inspires the menu items with his vast range of culinary experience.

From the beginning of your meal, you can choose from a wide selection of wine and cocktails to perfectly pair with your entrees. From creative plates such as the Charred Leeks with anchovy to French classics with a twist, like the Foie Gras Torchon with spiced pear compote, you won’t be disappointed no matter what you order.

Salazar Restaurant

When you walk into the Salazar Restaurant, the natural light and cozy atmosphere fill you with the warmth of the community. This restaurant is led by James Beard-nominated Chef Jose Salazar and has a creative menu that changes with the seasons.

Both the cuisine and the atmosphere at Salazar Restaurant are meant to reflect the community in Cincinnati. They focus on fresh, farm-inspired flavors that are creative enough to delight any guest. At Salazar Restaurant, you can visit for dinner during the week or brunch on the weekend.

When enjoying the dinner menu, start off with grilled local bread, topped with bone marrow butter and Sicilian olive oil. You can also choose to nibble on the Fried Brussels Sprouts with pimenton and yuzu aioli. The seasonal entrees may include items like the Parisian Gnocchi with sweet corn or the Amish chicken schnitzel with smashed potatoes.

Sotto

If you’re looking for a more romantic, intimate dining spot, Sotto may be the right choice for you. Sotto provides a romantic, rustic atmosphere with a brick and wood interior and dim lighting.

This quaint hideaway restaurant excels at distinguished Italian cuisine. Start your meal off with one of the carefully curated wines from their vast selection or with a specialty cocktail, such as the Amalfi with vodka, limoncello, citrus, mint, and ginger beer.

The menu at Sotto includes elegant yet traditional Italian cuisine. You might find items such as the Tortellini di Zucca with brown butter and sage, or the Wood-fired Quail with peperonata and fennel pollen.

Red Feather Kitchen

At Red Feather Kitchen, you’ll experience fresh, farm-to-table dining with a contemporary American feel. Depending on where you sit, you can experience an intimate, romantic dinner, or a fun, vibrant atmosphere. No matter what your experience is, you’ll enjoy some deliciously fresh cuisine.

Start the evening off with a glass of wine from their extensive list, or you can celebrate with a glass of champagne. Red Feather Kitchen is the perfect place to book a private party or even enjoy a private event. Like many restaurants in the area, their menu often changes depending on what local ingredients are available each season, but they serve a variety of appetizers, soups, salads, and main plates year-round.

No matter what season you visit, each menu item is full of color, creativity, and bold flavors. You can experience appetizers such as the Fish Tacos with guacamole or the Steamed Buns with pork belly, pickles, and cilantro. Your choices for a main course might include the Short Rib with winter squash and apple sunflower seed, or the delicious Shrimp & Grits with Tasso ham and poached eggs sprinkled with chives.

Mita’s Restaurant

This stylish restaurant in Downtown Cincinnati is another creation by award-winning Chef Jose Salazar. Mita’s Restaurant has been recognized by the James Beard Foundation and Cincinnati Magazine as the Top Restaurant in Cincinnati.

Mita’s Restaurant features unique and distinguished items inspired by Latin American and Spanish cuisine. You can also enjoy tapas and ceviche inspired by Chef Salazar. This restaurant was the second Cincinnati restaurant opened by Chef Salazar, and he named it in honor of his grandmother.

Mita’s Restaurant features a menu with creative dishes inspired by local farms, and the atmosphere makes it a perfect place to enjoy a night out with family or friends. To start your meal off, you can enjoy one of the tapas, which are a Spanish tradition that you share with the table. The menu also includes various cheeses and salt-cured meats, such as the Manchego with cow, sheep, and goat’s milk from Spain. For dessert, enjoy options like Pastel de Tres Leches cake, Tarta de Chocolate, and Empanadas with apple and peppercorn caramel.

Losanti

As one of the top steakhouses in Cincinnati, Losanti offers a variety of steaks, pork chops, and pastas. Losanti has also been recognized by numerous publications, including Cincinnati Magazine, where it made the list of Best Restaurants in Cincinnati.

This vibrant steakhouse is the perfect place for a private dining experience or event. The Library Room at Losanti is located next to the cocktail lounge; you can fit 30 guests in this semi-private, art-inspired room.

If you’re looking for the best steak in Cincinnati, you can choose between cuts such as the Prime Filet Mignon, Prime Ribeye, and the Prime NY Strip. You’ll find each steak is perfectly cut and charred to perfection. Despite the steakhouse title, there are many other delicious options on the menu at Losanti. You can also enjoy classics, such as the Chicken Marsala with roasted mushrooms, gravy, and marsala wine. Or, you can choose a delicious pasta such as the Gnocchi Al Forno with truffle, pancetta, and sage.

Best Restaurants in Cincinnati's Growing Food Scene

It's no wonder Cincinnati has been recognized as one of the up-and-coming food cities in America. There are numerous Michelin-worthy restaurants in the area, and there are bound to be more in the future.

Cincinnati has so much to offer locals and tourists, especially with its unique and creative food scene. If you're a local in Cincinnati or are visiting the area, check out some of these luxurious restaurants for your next night out.

The post Michelin-Star Quality Dining in the Heart of Cincinnati appeared first on Moms Who Think.

When traveling, finding an exceptional restaurant can be a major challenge. While recommendations from friends and family or browsing online reviews often uncover great local gems, there are times when you crave something more refined–a truly upscale, top-rated dining experience to indulge in.

If you’re traveling to Florida, we have some picks for you. We’ve compiled a list of James Beard award-winning and honorable-mention restaurants in the Sunshine State that we’re confident you’ll love. So, without further ado, here are the 11 James Beard restaurants in Florida (the first four are winners followed by seven honorable mentions) that everyone should visit at least once.

Michael’s Genuine Food and Drink

A local favorite in Miami, Michael’s Genuine Food and Drink is an award-winning restaurant for good reason. Chef Michael Schwartz is known for serving comfort food in a refined way.

Joe’s Stone Crab

We love seafood, and so do Florida residents and visitors. Joe’s Stone Crab in Miami is a local favorite that gained popularity from its famous crab, key lime pie, and other dishes.

Versailles

When Miami residents find a stellar Cuban restaurant, they often frequent it. Versailles is one such eatery serving authentic Cuban food. You’ll want to visit it repeatedly.

Michy’s

With a name like Chef Michelle Bernstein, you know you’re going to get a superior dining experience. This Miami restaurant may have won the James Beard award, but it has since closed and reopened as a new fried chicken concept by the same talented chef, and it is definitely worth a try!

Itamae Miami

This popular spot was a semifinalist, and for good reason. Unlike other restaurants, Itamae offers a multi-course unconventional Omakase at a 10-seat counter in Miami. Needless to say, if you want to dine here, you’ll have to plan ahead.

Yardbird Southern Table & Bar

If you live in Miami or have visited, you’ve most likely heard of Yardbird. They are known for their inventive food and Southern comfort vibe. However, if you can only have one meal here, we recommend brunch. You can’t miss it!

The Katherine

Heading slightly north in Fort Lauderdale is The Katherine. Its unassuming name surprises diners when they experience a menu that includes flavors from all over the world. It’s an intimate spot that will become your next favorite.

Cafe Boulud

As one of the top French restaurants in Palm Beach and arguably the state, Cafe Boulud is renowned for its delectable offerings. Located in the historic Brazilian Court, stop at this location if you’re ever in Palm Beach.

Buccan Palm Beach

You don’t want to sleep on this upscale yet approachable eatery. Chef Clay Conley has made this popular restaurant what it is today: a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Take note: reservations are highly recommended.

Stage Kitchen & Bar Palm Beach Gardens

Last but not least, Stage Kitchen & Bar in Palm Beach Gardens has gained its reputation for good reason. Not only will the food take you on a culinary adventure with its diverse, global menu, but the ambiance will have you frequenting this always-packed eatery.

The post 10 Florida Restaurants That Made the James Beard List appeared first on Moms Who Think.

Detroit, known as the Motor City, has something for everyone, from tourists to locals. You can explore historic landmarks like the Michigan Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument and The Fisher Building, or visit iconic spots like the Detroit Zoo, the Motown Museum, and Comerica Park. When it's time to enjoy a meal, the city offers a wide array of exceptional dining options.

The cuisine is so tasty, that National Geographic named Detroit as one of the top “unexpected cities” for food lovers. This accolade would lead one to believe Detroit has many high-rated restaurants. Perhaps even a few Michelin Star restaurants.

While the Detroit area does have several Michelin-worthy restaurants, none currently hold a Michelin Star. This is because there is currently no Michelin chapter in Michigan. Even though Detroit doesn’t currently hold any stars doesn’t mean there aren’t any restaurants worthy of the award.

Keep reading to find out which restaurants should make the cut if Michelin expanded its guide to Detroit.

Restaurants in Detroit Worthy of a Michelin Star

Michelin has rated restaurants in the U.S. since 2005, but they’ve only added a handful of U.S. guides during that time. While the Michelin Guide has expanded to areas such as New York City and Chicago, there are still many locations in the country left untouched.

Detroit is a large city with an excellent food scene, but Michelin has yet to make its way there to rate some of the local restaurants. However, this doesn’t mean there aren’t any restaurants in Detroit that are worthy of a Michelin Star.

If Michelin decided to rate the restaurants in the area, here are some of the Detroit restaurants that could make the cut:

• The Apparatus Room
• Selden Standard
• The Whitney
• Prime + Proper
• Mabel Gray
• Oak & Reel

Detroit has numerous high-class restaurants and each restaurant brings its own flair to the cuisine, whether it’s internationally inspired or inspired by local flavors. Let’s explore what makes each of these Detroit restaurants special enough to potentially be considered for a Michelin Star.

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The Apparatus Room

From the beautifully lit bar to the cozy and comfortable dining room, The Apparatus Room has everything you need for an enjoyable night out in Detroit. This upscale restaurant offers American cuisine in an industrial-style atmosphere inside the Detroit Foundation Hotel. The restaurant's unique location was previously the headquarters of the Detroit Fire Department, but the restaurant owners have repurposed the space most creatively and excitingly.

Chef Rece Hogerheide runs the show at The Apparatus Room, at least as far as the kitchen goes. Guests at The Apparatus Room get a full view of the open kitchen, adding to the overall dining experience. Chef Hogerheide focuses on using fresh ingredients from local Michigan farmers to create delicious shareable plates and entrees.

You can visit The Apparatus Room for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner. Those staying at The Detroit Foundation Hotel can even enjoy the cuisine from their hotel room with in-room dining. When you enjoy a meal at The Apparatus Room, you might experience items like the Spanish Octopus with beet and pickled tomato or the Braised Pork Collar with creamed savoy cabbage and a green apple puree.

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Selden Standard

Whether you choose a seat inside with a full view of the kitchen or a seat on the cozy outdoor patio, you’ll have a memorable meal when you dine at Selden Standard. The idea behind Selden Standard was to create a comfortable place for you to enjoy a delicious meal with friends. Additionally, the staff builds each menu item with ingredients from local farms and serves them as sharable portions to encourage a community experience.

Aside from the items on the menu, the staff at Selden Standard also take the bar seriously as part of the overall experience of the restaurant. Each wine and brew is carefully selected to perfectly pair and complement each appetizer or entree. Considering its success, it’s no surprise that the Selden Standard has been recognized by local publications like the Detroit Free Press and Hour Detroit.

Executive Chef Andy Hollyday creates an exceptional dining experience with meals crafted from fresh, local ingredients. When you visit Selden Standard for dinner, you can choose from items like the Beef Bolognese with roasted pears and parmesan or the Roasted Beet Salad with ricotta, pomegranate, and pecans.

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The Whitney

Words fall short when it comes to describing the beauty, class, and charm of The Whitney, a fine dining restaurant located within the iconic David Whitney Mansion. David Whitney Jr., previously the wealthiest man in Detroit, built the mansion for his family in 1894.

The 22,000-square-foot mansion is now home to the Whitney Restaurant, the Ghost Bar, and the beautiful Whitney Gardens. You can visit the mansion for dinner with a reservation, but it's also an event venue you can reserve for various celebrations.

When you spend the evening at the Whitney, you'll be inspired by more than just the artwork and beautiful Tiffany glass windows. They also have delicious cuisine and extraordinary service. You might start the night with Mrs. Whitney's Sweet Pea Purse, a combination of spring peas, mascarpone, and Parmesan-Romano. For the main course, you can enjoy items like the Beef Wellington or the Orange Smashing Salmon.

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Prime + Proper

The classy and elegant interior at Prime + Proper is only a glimpse into the atmosphere and all the restaurant has to offer. This high-end restaurant is the perfect place to enjoy steak and seafood paired with a glass of wine.

The concept behind Prime + Proper is a modern interpretation of the classic American steakhouse. From the hospitality experience down to the dessert, every detail matters when you dine at Prime + Proper. When you enter the restaurant, which is located in the Capital Park Loft building, you'll experience the attention to detail and rich history of the ideas behind this restaurant.

Each member of the team at Prime + Proper builds relationships with the guests and creates an unforgettable experience. On the dinner menu, you'll find a wide selection of steaks, chops, and seafood from the raw bar. They even have some rare cuts available, like their Japanese Craft A5 Wagyu. You can start off your meal with a selection of caviar or an appetizer such as Zucchini and Eggplant Chips. For dessert, try their Gooey Butter Cake or their Classic Vanilla Cheesecake.

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Mabel Gray

Mabel Gray combines modern American cuisine with the style and flavors of historic Detroit. They pride themselves on creating a comfortable yet classy atmosphere where anyone in the neighborhood can feel at home.

This restaurant is the creation of Chef Rigato; every item on the ever-changing menu is handmade and created with fresh, local ingredients. To keep each experience fresh and surprising, there's no set menu since the entrees change based on seasonal and available ingredients.

Mabel Gray was a James Beard Award semi-finalist and is celebrated across Detroit for its innovative and fresh cuisine. You'll have to take a look at the charming hand-written menu at Mabel Gray to know what they're offering that day, or you can place a call to the restaurant to see what they're offering the day you want to dine. 

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Oak & Reel

Oak & Reel is your best bet if you're looking for classy Italian cuisine in Detroit. The chef behind Oak & Reel, Chef Jared Gadbaw, was a Michelin Star chef in New York before returning to the Michigan food scene.

Oak & Reel features classic Italian cuisine with a strong focus on seafood. Chef Jared combines classic dishes with the local flavors of Detroit, bringing a creative spin to many traditional entrees. The atmosphere at Oak & Reel is classy and elegant, yet comfortable enough that you can relax while enjoying a meal with a friend or loved ones.

The dinner menu at Oak & Reel features items such as Lobster Spaghetti and Honey-Roasted Dry Aged Duck. You can also select from their extensive wine list to find the glass that pairs perfectly with your meal. Finish your meal off with their Dark Chocolate Mousse or their Affogato.

Finding the Best Restaurants in Detroit

Detroit is an excellent city with a rich history and plenty of landmarks, museums, and restaurants to visit. Although there aren’t any Michelin Star Restaurants in Detroit, there are numerous restaurants that could be worthy of a Michelin Star in the future.

No matter what brings you to Detroit, you have to make a point to visit some of the top restaurants in the area. If Michelin decides to expand its U.S. guide to reach the cities in Michigan, it may consider some of these restaurants for the Michigan Guide.

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Las Vegas is renowned for many things from the Strip and the Stratosphere to drive-thru weddings and its fame as a gambling mecca, but its reputation as a foodie heaven with buffets galore and world-class restaurants is something everyone should experience at least once. The selection of restaurants is impressive, with hundreds of options on the strip along alone.

It's not just casual eateries to choose from. The fine dining selections are rather impressive and many restaurants have received prestigious honors. One of the most coveted is the Michelin Star, the Oscar of the food world. However, while there are many Michelin-worthy dining options in Las Vegas, there are currently no restaurants in Sin City that have the honor of having been awarded the treasured star.

Not because they don't deserve it. Rather, Michelin no longer reviews in the city. Due to the economic climate and the downturn the economy took after the publishing of the 2008-2009 guide, Michelin dropped Las Vegas from its official Michelin Star Guide. However, this doesn't mean that no restaurants are deserving of the honor. Michelin-worthy dining in Las Vegas is aplenty, but there are only Michelin Guides for a small selection of locations in the U.S. (Colorado and Atlanta were two new locations added at the end of 2023.)

Here are Michelin-worthy dining options in Las Vegas.

Restaurants in Las Vegas that are Michelin Star Worthy

Michelin is constantly expanding their guides, and they may choose to revisit Vegas in the future. If Las Vegas restaurants were evaluated by the Michelin Inspectors, we think the following Las Vegas restaurants would make the cut.

• Joel Robuchon
• Restaurant Guy Savoy
• Michael Mina
• Le Cirque
• Picasso
• Wing Lei
• L’Atelier de Joel Robuchon
• Nobu
• DJT

Let's take a closer look at what each of these restaurants has to offer.

Joël Robuchon

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Even though Joël Robuchon passed away in 2018, the legacy of this culinary genius lives on in many ways. One of the ways is through his Las Vegas restaurant. When Michelin Stars were awarded in Las Vegas, this restaurant received 3 stars, which is the highest award bestowed by Michelin.

When you discuss elegant, Michelin-worthy dining in Vegas, Joël Robuchon is the first restaurant locals and tourists alike will mention. This establishment has won numerous awards, such as the AAA Five Diamond award and the 5 Star Award from Forbes Magazine, not to mention Joël Robuchon was named the chef of the century. He was also the highest ranked chef in the world and won over 30 Michelin Stars throughout his career. 

Taking one step into the elegant atmosphere of Joël Robuchon will transport you to the finest corners of France. Chef Joël Robuchon believed in using simple ingredients to create a luxurious meal. This idea is evident in starters like the L’Oeuf de Poule, a deliciously arranged appetizer of soft-boiled egg on a spinach puree.

Restaurant Guy Savoy

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If you’re looking for an elegant oasis within the Las Vegas desert, Restaurant Guy Savoy may be what you need. Your experience at Restaurant Guy Savoy starts as soon as you walk in the doors at Caesar’s Palace. Your meal begins with a bread cart of freshly baked bread and the seasonal Amuse-bouche, or appetizer.

Restaurant Guy Savoy has won the Forbes 5 Star Award for 18 years, and it’s no wonder why with their elegant menu that delights each customer from start to finish.

In the previous Las Vegas Michelin Guide, this restaurant received two Michelin Stars, but it has also been voted as one of the top 100 restaurants in the country by Opinionated About Dining. Many restaurant-goers have compared the atmosphere of Restaurant Guy Savoy to the elegance of Joël Robuchon’s restaurants. Enjoy signature dishes like Octopus Terrine, the artichoke, and black truffle soup.

Michael Mina

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If your idea of a luxurious and elegant meal includes the finest seafood, there’s no better choice than Michael Mina. The extensive variety of seafood offered at Michael Mina is flown in daily by private plane. Chef Michael Mina is an American chef with award-winning restaurants across the country.

Located in the lobby of the luxury Bellagio Hotel and Casino in Vegas, this restaurant is the perfect stop for those who appreciate the taste of fresh seafood. 

Some of the highlights on their menu include the Ahi Tuna Tartare, the Phyllo-crusted Petrale Sole, and Michael Mina's Lobster Pot Pie. Have some roasted mushrooms or whipped potato puree on the side.

Le Cirque

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Dining at Le Cirque in Las Vegas is an experience you will never forget. As soon as you walk in the door, you're overwhelmed by the colorful and vibrant atmosphere. Le Cirque somehow manages to perfectly combine the lively and fun décor with a level of luxury and elegance. 

The boldly designed dining room is a place of celebration- and their menu is certainly something to celebrate. You might start off your night with Alaskan king crab and caviar. At Le Cirque they dazzle their guests with a 4- or 8-course menu. Your meal ends with the Chocolate Ball, a dreamy dessert made of vanilla bean ice cream, chocolate sauce, and streusel.

The menu at Le Cirque also includes the option of a wine pairing or premium wine pairing, and they offer an extensive wine selection. From unique creations you won’t find anywhere else to French favorites like seared Foie Gras, there’s no limit to the amount of luxury in your meal when you visit Le Cirque.

Picasso

It may be the name that draws you in, or even the knowledge of the art that will amaze you during your dinner. But no matter what drew you to this restaurant, you’ll be glad you chose this fine-dining experience. There’s no comparison to the atmosphere of Picasso, where you’ll find authentic pieces painted by Pablo Picasso himself.

The amazement, however, doesn’t stop there. They not only offer over 1,500 wine selections to pair perfectly with your meal, but the entrees inspired by Chef Julian Serrano are something most people have never experienced. The quail is a signature dish at this restaurant, with offerings such as Warm Quail Salad. Apparently, customers love the quail much, they’ve even ordered quail for dessert. 

Another unique aspect of this restaurant is they offer a vegan menu as well for those who eat plant-based or have dietary restrictions but still want the luxury of a fine-dining experience.

Wing Lei

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Wing Lei stands out from the other restaurants on this list as the first Chinese restaurant in the country to earn a Michelin Star. Although there isn’t currently a guide in Las Vegas, Wing Lei was in the previous Las Vegas Michelin Guide.

When you walk into the white, gold, and jade dining room, every intricate detail tells a story about the history and style of the restaurant. The atmosphere of the room, inspired by Chinese jewel boxes, is only one piece of the puzzle when it comes to the experience of dining at Wing Lei.

Chef Ming Yu has always had a passion for food, and it’s evident through the classic Chinese cuisine served at Wing Lei. You’ll be delighted by favorite Chinese dishes, such as the Imperial Peking Duck, or you can choose something more unique like the Fried Pawns with candied walnuts.

L’Atelier de Joel Robuchon

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Joël Robuchon makes the list again with the famous Vegas restaurant L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon. This sensational establishment became popular due to its unique concept of preparing food right in front of the guests.

Although the experience at this restaurant is more engaging and interactive than some of the other ones that made the list, it doesn’t take away from the elegance of what’s prepared before you.

Even with a full view of the kitchen, you’ll still be in awe of the elegant meals that end up on your plate. Like Chef Joël Robuchon’s other Vegas restaurant, you’ll find some French favorites as well as unique creations on the menu at L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon. This fun, trendy restaurant on the Vegas Strip is worth the visit every time.

Nobu

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At Nobu, you can experience award-winning Japanese cuisine in a relaxing atmosphere. Located in Caesar’s Palace, Nobu offers a range of exotic meals and seafood. The experience of Nobu includes Teppan tables where you can enjoy watching your meal get cooked right in front of your eyes.

You’ll be surprised how much Nobu’s signature sauces add to each part of the meal and the overall dining experience. The reputation of Nobu far exceeds the local community in Las Vegas and it’s internationally known for its delicious Japanese cuisine.

Signature dishes, such as the Toro Carpaccio, keep guests coming back for more, year after year. Relax in the Nobu Lounge with a signature cocktail before or after your meal.

DJT

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DJT is another exceptional dining experience you don’t want to miss out on. This American-style restaurant, located in the Trump International Hotel, offers a wide selection of favorite American dishes. 

From classic meals like the Philly Cheesesteak to more high-end meals like the Pan-seared Atlantic Salmon or Filet Mignon, DJT offers a luxurious twist on some American favorites.

In addition to their meals, they offer a variety of handcrafted cocktails and an extensive wine selection. Unlike most of the other Michelin-worthy restaurants in Vegas, DJT offers a breakfast menu with delicious omelets, Eggs Benedict, or freshly baked Almond Croissant French Toast.

Fine Dining in Las Vegas

You can’t take a trip to Las Vegas without checking out some of the best restaurants in the city. From delectable entrees to jaw-dropping desserts, each of the restaurants on this list creates a memorable experience and is sure to impress, no matter what your preferences are.

Even though the Michelin Guide has yet to return to Las Vegas, there’s always hope for the return of the guide in the future. If the Michelin Guide does return to Las Vegas, some of these restaurants are sure to make the list!

The image featured at the top of this post is ©f11photo / iStock via Getty Images.

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