In the latest edition of the highly anticipated Michelin Guide San Francisco Bay Area & Wine Country 2013, 42 restaurants have been awarded Michelin stars. Both restaurants that achieved three Michelin stars in 2012–The French Laundry and The Restaurant at Meadowood–maintained this honor. Three Michelin stars is considered the utmost international recognition in the culinary world, and is reserved for those restaurants that serve “exceptional cuisine, worth a special journey.”
This year’s guide sees six restaurants awarded two Michelin stars. Atelier Crenn has been promoted from one to two stars and five establishments maintained their standing from the previous edition.
Thirty-four restaurants earned one Michelin star, a significant culinary accomplishment that can be defined as “a very good restaurant in its category.” The three newcomers to the category are All Spice, SPQR and Keiko à Nob Hill.
The release of the Michelin Guide San Francisco Bay Area & Wine Country comes one week after Michelin announced that 70 restaurants earned the distinction of Bib Gourmand.
These establishments offer two courses plus a glass of wine or dessert for $40 or less (excluding tax and gratuity) and are known as the Michelin inspectors’ favorites for good value.
The Michelin Guide 2013 editions include two new symbols: one highlighting notable beer lists and the other indicating restaurants with a dim sum offering.
In the U.S., San Francisco is one of three cities where Michelin publishes an annual guide.
Three Stars
The French Laundry – Thomas Keller
The Restaurant at Meadowood – Christopher Kostow
Two Stars
Atelier Crenn
Baume
Benu
Coi
Manresa
Saison