California’s culinary scene continues to shine as the 2023 MICHELIN Guide unveils a constellation of outstanding restaurants.
@Kelly Puleio / Aphotic Restaurant San Francisco / Michelin Guide California 2023
California’s culinary landscape continues to dazzle with its world-class offerings, where creativity, sustainability, and a deep appreciation for exceptional ingredients take center stage. Whether indulging in fine seafood delights or savoring innovative cuisine with a Californian twist, these restaurants are sure to leave lasting impressions on discerning food enthusiasts.
Six new eateries join the prestigious one MICHELIN Star club, each offering a unique and unforgettable dining experience. Additionally, four restaurants earn the coveted Green Star, showcasing their commitment to environmentally conscious gastronomy. From seafood delights to contemporary cuisine, Californian dining exemplifies the state’s diverse bounty and commitment to sustainability.
These are the best table in California in 2023:
Aphotic (San Francisco) – Seafood Sensation
Immerse yourself in the depths of the ocean at Aphotic, where Chef Peter Hemsley crafts an extraordinary pescatarian tasting menu. Abundant with personality, Aphotic sources exceptional seafood from sustainable purveyors, capturing the essence of California’s coastal bounty. Dry aging and fermentation techniques elevate each dish, offering a truly unparalleled dining experience.
Auro Restaurant (Calistoga) – A Contemporary Wine Country Retreat
Nestled in the serene surroundings of Napa’s northern reaches, Auro at the Four Seasons resort epitomizes classic Wine Country fine dining. Chef Rogelio Garcia, honing his skills in notable Bay Area kitchens, showcases a distinctly Californian perspective. His precise techniques accentuate locally-sourced, exceptional ingredients, elevating each dish to culinary perfection.
Chez Noir Restaurant (Carmel-By-The-Sea) – French Bistro Fare with a California Twist; @.instagram.com/cheznoircarmel/
Chez Noir Restaurant (Carmel-By-The-Sea) – French Bistro Fare with a California Twist
Feel at home at Chez Noir, where Chef Johnny and Monique Black welcome guests into their Craftsman-style residence. Combining French bistro fare with the bounty of California’s coast, the dining experience exudes approachability and warmth. Fresh seafood, including delectable sea bass and abalone, forms the heart of the menu, leaving lasting impressions on discerning palates.
Heritage Restaurant (Long Beach) – California’s Culinary Essence
Nestled in the historic Rose Park neighborhood, Heritage offers an inviting locale removed from the bustle of Long Beach. Run by brother-and-sister duo Philip and Lauren Pretty, this restaurant curates a relaxed yet detail-oriented experience. The single multicourse tasting menu highlights top-notch ingredients, including produce sourced from their nearby farm, showcasing California’s culinary essence.
Nari Restaurant (San Francisco) – Contemporary Thai Delights
Located within Hotel Kabuki, Nari exudes a sleek and contemporary ambiance. Chef Pim Techamuanvivit’s vibrant personality shines through in dishes that present fantastic Californian ingredients with a distinct Thai perspective. Family-style dining takes on a refined touch, with aromatic curries and flaky roti bread enticing the senses.
Valle Restaurant (Oceanside) – Refined Mexican Cuisine
Chef Roberto Alcocer brings his refined, modern expression of Mexican cuisine to Oceanside’s Mission Pacific Hotel. The elegant space overlooking the scenic Oceanside Pier offers a four-course prix fixe or an eight-course tasting menu. Traditional Mexican flavors merge with innovative creativity, exemplified in dishes like a tetela filled with chanterelle mushrooms and goat cheese, paired with a complex morita chili salsa.
Sustainability Takes Center Stage with the Green Star
As a shining example of sustainability, Providence in Los Angeles earns both two MICHELIN Stars and a Green Star. This esteemed restaurant showcases unwavering dedication to sustainable seafood practices, rooftop gardening, and a zero-waste chocolate program.
Other Green Star recipients include Aphotic, Heritage, and Pomet, each making significant strides in environmentally conscious gastronomy. From sourcing seafood directly from trusted partners to growing their own produce and using sustainable wood for cooking, these restaurants lead the way in promoting environmentally-friendly practices.
Bib Gourmand Additions
In addition to the acclaimed MICHELIN Stars and Green Stars, the Bib Gourmand list welcomes ten new restaurants that offer fantastic food at an excellent value. From Bansang to Villa’s Tacos, these eateries exemplify California’s rich culinary diversity, further solidifying the Golden State’s position as a gastronomic haven.
The 2023 MICHELIN Guide California is a testament to the state’s culinary excellence, offering a myriad of unforgettable dining experiences for gourmets and travelers alike.
@Aphotic (San Francisco) – Seafood Sensation
