Heritage cuisine surge climaxes with historic Michelin night
Key Questions
Which restaurant became the first U.S. Mexican spot to earn three Michelin stars?
Californios achieved this distinction in the latest Michelin awards. It marks a historic milestone for Mexican cuisine in the United States.
How does Sonoma's Michelin star count compare to Napa's?
Sonoma now leads with eight stars versus Napa's six. This shift highlights the region's evolving dining landscape.
What new restaurant is Thai chef Ton Tassanakajohn opening in San Francisco?
He is debuting Saam in SoMa in late July. The venue will feature Thai-Javanese influences from his acclaimed Bangkok restaurants.
Californios becomes first U.S. Mexican restaurant with three stars; Enclos jumps to three stars; nine new one-star spots include Naides (Filipino) and Wolfsbane. Additional awards: Dave Beran (Best Chef), Providence (Outstanding Hospitality), Kato (Outstanding Wine/Beverages). Maria Isabel's bar wins Exceptional Cocktail Award. Ongoing openings: KHAKI, TIYA, Ajae, Minnie Bell's, JAJI, Alisios, Reem's worker-owned flagship. Sonoma now beats Napa in star count (8 vs 6). A major SF Chronicle feature chronicles Californios' journey. A 'Passport to Peru' promotion across 26 Bay Area restaurants highlights growing Peruvian food scene, with a recent cultural deep-dive on Peruvian cuisine. Fresca, the beloved Peruvian chain, is reopening in Noe Valley. Michelin-starred Thai chef Ton Tassanakajohn is opening Saam in SoMa on July 24, with a detailed preview highlighting Thai-Javanese lamb curry, hand-pounded curries, no spice compromise, and sato rice wine — reinforcing the wave of modern casual Thai openings. A new Yemeni cafe in FiDi adds to heritage coffee trend. California dominates national best new restaurants list with Lilo #1, Wolfsbane and The Happy Crane in top 10. Jollibee's SF opening confirmed for July 31, a major win for Filipino food visibility. La Kalidád, a beloved Filipino pastry pop-up, is getting a permanent home in South Beach, adding to the Filipino food wave.