Texan Michelin Madness: Y’all Ready for Some Fancy Food?
Well, butter my biscuit! The Michelin Guide has just rolled into Texas, and it’s not just a brisket pit stop! We’ve been waiting long enough, and this week, Houston threw a fancy party to hand out some shiny michelin stars like candy from a piñata. Forget just two or three stars; we’ve got a whopping fifteen restaurants strutting away with one star! That’s right—seven in Austin and six in Houston! Looks like the Lone Star State is determined to be more than just a BBQ lover’s paradise!
Now, now, before you roll your eyes and think, “But what about my good ol’ BBQ?”—the Michelin inspectors weren’t lured in by the sweet scent of smoked meats alone! They took a good hard look at the diverse culinary scene that Texas has to offer. From sushi with a Mediterranean flair to upscale takes on classic Tex-Mex, the Michelin stars have, dare I say, taken one giant leap for Texan-kind!
Spotlight on Starry Spots
BCN Taste & Tradition in Houston
Imagine this: Spanish cuisine mixed with a little Southern hospitality. That’s what you get at BCN. Nestled in a historic house, chef Luis Roger crafts dishes that make you rethink every seafood experience you’ve ever had. This guy serves sea cucumbers with lobster rice! And let’s not forget the Iberian piglet, which I suspect is as contentious as your uncle’s BBQ recipe at family gatherings. But don’t take my word for it; the Michelin stars are here for the drama!
The Gardener in Houston
This isn’t your average garden—The Gardener is the place where French cuisine meets fine art! Direct from the imagination of chef Alain Verzeroli, every plate screams, “Look at me!” And that zucchini spaghetti? It’s not just a side; it’s a fashion statement—because calories don’t count when it’s beautiful, right?
CorkScrew BBQ
This might sound familiar, and that’s because it’s still BBQ, folks! But don’t roll your eyes just yet; it’s actually received a Michelin star! Looks like the inspectors were feeling a bit nostalgic while savoring slow-cooked goodness with a side of paprika.
Austin’s Culinary Playground
Barley Swine in Austin
Step into Barley Swine, where the only thing more inventive than the menu might be the décor! Did I mention they grow some of their ingredients on site? So don’t be surprised if you find a tomato plant peeking over your shoulder while you enjoy your “chicken fried fairytale” (whatever that is—sounds borderline magical!).
Craft Omakase in Austin
Let’s talk about sushi that’s a surprise party on a plate. At Craft Omakase, the chef decides your fate! You’re “letting the chef decide,” which sounds suspiciously like a blind date gone right. Expect bold flavors and seasonal ingredients brighter than your future.
Texan Green Stars: A Different Kind of Twinkle!
But wait, there’s more! Michelin now has a green star program! Yes, you heard me right—eco-conscious restaurants are getting love, too. Come on Two and Emmer & Rye have been recognized for their environmental efforts. Talk about sustainable dining; these eateries are taking local produce and reducing their carbon footprint like it’s a personal challenge.
More Bibs than a Baby Supply Store!
Last but not least—Texas didn’t just want to compete; it wanted to dominate! A total of 45 restaurants snagged a Bib Gourmand! Offers that are good value while still being scrumptious? Sign me up! I mean, who wouldn’t want a Michelin recommendation that doesn’t require a second mortgage?
So whether you’re a BBQ devotee, a fine dining aficionado, or just someone who enjoys a good meal with a side of Texas-sized flair, it’s time to explore the gourmet landscape that Texas has to offer! Grab your forks and prepare to be starstruck, or should I say, star-ved!
In conclusion, who would have thought that Texas would make it onto the Michelin map for reasons beyond BBQ? Next thing you know, we’ll be dining in a cowboy hat while contemplating the perfect wine pairing for our brisket!”
The long-awaited moment has finally arrived: the Michelin Guide has bestowed its prestigious accolades upon Texas. This milestone was celebrated during an inaugural ceremony this week in Houston, marking a significant moment for the state’s culinary landscape. While the first edition did not award two or three stars, it did honor fifteen restaurants with a single star, including seven situated in Austin and six located in Houston. These coveted distinctions elevate the Lone Star State to the status of a prominent international culinary destination. Beyond the celebrated stars, the Guide also recognized two green stars, 45 Bib Gourmands, and 57 recommendations, culminating in a remarkable total of 117 noteworthy establishments.
If Texan gastronomy is primarily known for its beloved barbecues and Tex-Mex offerings, Michelin Guide inspectors have particularly commended the impressive diversity of cuisines and flavors on display. The newly minted stars reflect a vibrant culinary scene that goes beyond traditional grilled meats and tacos, embracing a myriad of influences from across the world. The restaurants honored showcase a range of flavors, from sushi with Mediterranean twists to innovative interpretations of Mexican dishes.
BCN Taste & Tradition in Houston
Known for its exquisite Spanish creations, BCN is located in a charming historic home and is expertly led by chef Luis Roger, who skillfully blends the freshest seafood with fine Iberian meats. Michelin Guide inspectors were particularly taken with tender sea cucumber slices served atop rich lobster rice, along with delicately sliced octopus paired perfectly with smooth mashed potatoes and a hint of smoked paprika. The star of the meat offerings, sensational Iberian piglet, boasts a delectably crunchy skin enveloping its succulent flesh. The Guide also praises BCN’s exceptional selection of Spanish wines and creatively crafted gin and tonics.
The Gardener in Houston
Here, culinary artistry meets sustainability in the realm of French cuisine. Under the careful guidance of French chef Alain Verzeroli, The Gardener is celebrated for its visually stunning and flavorful dishes, all crafted to highlight seasonal, local ingredients. Nestled in the heart of the city’s Museum of Fine Arts, the restaurant serves each exquisite plate as a work of art. Standout menu items recognized by Michelin inspectors include elegant zucchini spaghetti twirled in yellow pepper coulis complemented by luxurious Comté mousse, and juicy Maine scallops paired with earthy carrot juice and refreshing snow peas. Desserts, such as yuzu mousse adorned with raspberry compote and nutty pistachio shortbread, promise to delight both aesthetically and flavorfully. For those not in Texas, The Gardener also operates in New York and Miami.
In Houston, additional establishments that received their first stars include CorkScrew BBQ (celebrated for its barbecue expertise), March (offering Mediterranean culinary delights), Traveller (showcasing Indian flavors), and Tatemo (serving traditional Mexican cuisine).
Barley Swine in Austin
This vibrant restaurant in Austin, helmed by chef Bryce Gilmore, has garnered attention not only for its inventive culinary approach but also for its commitment to sustainability. The establishment cultivates some of its own produce, cleverly utilizes rainwater for irrigation, and decorates its dining spaces with upcycled materials. Even the dinnerware comes from local thrift stores! The menu itself is a refreshing blend of Mexican and Southern influences, featuring seasonal delicacies. A must-try includes a bagel topped with smoked radish and cucumber cream enhanced with spicy dill sauce, followed by expertly roasted duck breast served alongside a silky popcorn puree and a nixtamalized peach suffused with captivatingly smoky flavors—a sampling that left Michelin inspectors thoroughly impressed.
Craft Omakase in Austin
Omakase, a revered Japanese culinary concept meaning “I leave it up to you,” invites customers to entrust the chef with the selection and preparation of their meals. At Craft Omakase, every dining experience embodies this tradition beautifully, as diners enjoy a menu curated from the freshest seasonal ingredients. Each dish serves as a delightful surprise, showcasing imaginative flavor pairings and top-quality components, such as pink shrimp aguachile—a zesty Mexican dish featuring raw seafood marinated in a spicy sauce alongside fresh veggies—and hamachi crudo, thinly sliced raw fish served with yuzu and honey sauce.
Tatsu Dallas to Dallas
Tatsu Dallas introduces an exclusive omakase experience within the 2024 edition of the Michelin Guide Texas, featuring just ten meticulously arranged seats at the counter. Timeliness is crucial as all guests are served simultaneously, ensuring a seamless culinary journey. Chef Tatsuya Sekiguchi provides an elegantly refined omakase adventure that honors traditional Japanese culinary practices while incorporating modern aesthetics. Among the standout offerings are exquisite uni sourced from Hokkaido and specially imported rice from Japan, promising an unforgettable dining experience.
Moreover, heading west to Saint Anthony, the highly regarded restaurant Mishtli, focusing on Mexican cuisine, also marks its first star in this edition.
Les Étoiles Vertes, eco-responsible cuisine
The Michelin Guide introduced Green Stars in 2020 to celebrate restaurants dedicated to eco-friendly and sustainable practices. Unlike conventional stars highlighting culinary excellence, green stars recognize an establishment’s commitment to environmental stewardship. This includes efforts such as sourcing local and seasonal ingredients, minimizing waste, and reducing carbon footprints while embracing energy and water conservation measures. The aim is to champion more responsible and sustainable culinary practices.
This year, the Michelin Guide has granted its Green Stars to two Austin restaurants that are making their debut within the Guide. Come on Two, under the expertise of chef Jesse Griffiths, proudly showcases Texan pride through a menu that emphasizes local Texas produce. This includes everything from meats and vegetables to olive oil and even wines crafted from local vineyards. Emmer & Rye stands out by engaging with local farms, employing whole animal butchery and creative use of vegetable scraps in their composting programs, along with offering house-made ferments and incorporating ancient grains ground on site.
Les Bib Gourmands, quality and good value for money
Texas indeed sweeps the floor with an impressive tally of 45 restaurants recognized with a Bib Gourmand distinction. This accolade is reserved for establishments that provide exceptional value for money, celebrated as ideal choices for diners seeking a delicious and high-quality meal without the luxury price tag often associated with Michelin-starred venues. The complete list of the 45 establishments awarded a Bib Gourmand can be accessed for those interested in uncovering the culinary gems Texas has to offer.
What are the sustainable sourcing practices implemented by Come on Two and Emmer & Rye?
Rdship, including sustainable sourcing, waste reduction, and community engagement. In this first edition of the Michelin Guide Texas, **Come on Two** and **Emmer & Rye** are honored with Green Stars, showcasing their admirable initiatives in sustainable dining.
**Come on Two** exemplifies a farm-to-table approach, harnessing local produce while practicing waste reduction methods. The restaurant engages closely with local farmers and suppliers to ensure that only the freshest, most environmentally responsible ingredients are used, contributing to a lower carbon footprint.
Meanwhile, **Emmer & Rye** uses a unique approach to highlight seasonal ingredients through their menu, focusing on the cycle of nature and sustainable practices. Their commitment to minimizing waste goes beyond simple recycling; they integrate the use of every part of their ingredients into the dishes they create.
With their dedication to sustainability, these restaurants epitomize a growing trend within the culinary world, where the importance of environmental consciousness is now aligning with culinary creativity and excellence. This trend is not just about creating delicious meals; it emphasizes a broader responsibility towards the planet, making dining an experience that fuels both the body and the soul while being mindful of our ecological footprint.
As Texas continues to blossom into a culinary hub, the recognition of these sustainable practices through the Michelin Guide serves as an invitation for diners to seek out meals that not only tantalize the taste buds but also nourish the earth. Whether you’re enjoying a delectable dish at **Emmer & Rye** or savoring the innovative menu at **Come on Two**, every meal becomes a celebration of sustainability, flavor, and the rich tapestry of Texas’s evolving food scene.
