If you’re a chef or a passionate foodie, you’re likely familiar with the legendary Michelin Star and may have even dined in such restaurants often! Every chef is obsessed with this star, which rates restaurants based strictly on their food and consistency.
So, what exactly is a Michelin Star? A Michelin Star is awarded to restaurants that offer outstanding dishes. This evaluation is based on five universal criteria: the quality of the ingredients, the harmony of flavours, the mastery of techniques, the personality of the chef as expressed through their cuisine, and consistency both across the entire menu and over time.
As seen in Emily in Paris, you may know that Michelin Inspectors are anonymous and often dine in restaurants multiple times, sometimes alone and other times in a group, to assess the consistency of the food. Furthermore, Michelin Stars are awarded annually to ensure that restaurants maintain their standards.
What is the difference between 1, 2 and 3 Michelin Stars?
(Content taken from Michelin website)
One Michelin Star is awarded to restaurants using top quality ingredients, where dishes with distinct flavours are prepared to a consistently high standard.
Two Michelin Stars are awarded when the personality and talent of the chef are evident in their expertly crafted dishes; their food is refined and inspired.
Three Michelin Stars is our highest award, given for the superlative cooking of chefs at the peak of their profession; their cooking is elevated to an art form and some of their dishes are destined to become classics.
In Singapore, there are many Michelin-starred restaurants. Here are some notable ones you should try!
3 Michelin Stars
1. Zen
Opened by Swedish celebrity chef Björn Frantzén, Zen restaurant offers European contemporary cuisine, with each floor serving a different selection of Swedish and Japanese delights. Diners can expect an exciting opener on the first floor, followed by an 8-course neo-Nordic, seafood-heavy tasting menu and more. It’s an exciting gastronomic journey encapsulated in one place.
2. Odette
A contemporary French cuisine that combines classic French delights with a hint of Asia. This cuisine is inspired by Chef Julien’s grandmother and his experiences in Asia.
3. Les Amis
Les Amis is familiar to many Singaporeans. If you’re a fan of authentic French cuisine, you’ll appreciate this exquisite fine dining experience, prepared with finesse and designed to bring a taste of France to you.
2 Michelin Stars
1. Jaan by Kirk Westaway
A romantic restaurant that captures the spirit of fine dining, Jaan by Kirk Westaway offers contemporary takes on British classics that are sure to leave a lasting impression.
2. Shoukouwa
Experience the true meaning of umami when you dine at Shoukouwa. Featuring two omakase menus, the Japanese head chef from Nagoya is the mastermind behind mixing top-notch ingredients in the perfect ratio.
3. Saint Pierre
With a unique skill for accentuating the natural flavours of premium ingredients and a menu rich in seafood that showcases Chef Emmanuel’s modern French cuisine, this restaurant is a frequent choice for many diners.
4. Cloudstreet
Get ready for an exciting culinary journey at the magical Cloudstreet. With Chef Rishi’s creativity and artistry, this restaurant showcases his pride and passion for cooking. Indulge in a variety of dishes, as well as tempting desserts, where you’ll be moved to another room upstairs for a truly sweet experience.
5. Thevar
Traditional Indian cuisine meets European cooking techniques! Chef Mano Thevar serves creative multi-course dishes featuring signature offerings like Brittany Lobster Curry, which is guaranteed to pack a punch in flavour while maintaining a fine balance on the diner’s palate.
6. Meta
Since the trending Netflix show Culinary Class Wars, we know that Koreans are great cooks! At Meta, Chef Sun Kim from Busan adds a twist to their popular risotto by incorporating steamed Jeju abalone and gochujang seaweed, offering a contrasting texture in every bite.
1 Michelin Star
There are a total of 42 restaurants in Singapore that have earned one Michelin Star. Most are honourable establishments loved by both Singaporeans and foreigners. However, a few impressively embody the identity of our local delights.
1. Hill Street Tai Hwa Pork Noodle
Michelin-starred Bak Chor Mee, Hill Street Tai Hwa Pork Noodle, puts our local favourite supper dish on the map! Their cooked-to-order noodles provide a nicely layered flavor and texture in every bite.
2. Imperial Treasure Fine Teochew Cuisine (Orchard)
Enjoy traditional classics like oyster omelette and Teochew steamed crab at Imperial Treasure Fine Teochew Cuisine! This Chinese restaurant is the perfect place to savour Michelin-grade Zi Char with your family. Be sure to order ahead to avoid disappointment, especially for their iconic crab dishes!
3. Chef Kang's
Sustainable and creative, Chef Kang demonstrates innovation and reduces food waste at his Chinese restaurant by offering specifically adjusted portions based on group size and hidden menu dishes that always carry an element of surprise. Enjoy an exclusive dining experience with the chef himself. Be sure to book ahead, as the restaurant closes when Chef Kang travels!
Most restaurants in the Michelin Guide have the opportunity to earn a star each year. However, the Michelin team are always open to recommendations. If you know of any local establishments that deserve a star, write to them and help make our local delights more popular in the international culinary scene!
All photos are from Michelin Guide website.