The Michelin Guide is finally in Mexico! Here are the 18 restaurants that made it to the list | Mexico Insider (2024)

The first-ever Mexico Michelin guide was held on May 14th in Mexico City, announcing 18 new Michelin-star restaurants and 42 Bib Gourmand honorees.

Yes, you read it right! Despite the popularity of Mexican cuisine worldwide, this is the first time Michelin has come to Mexico.

Two restaurants in Mexico City, Pujol and Quintonil, by renowned chef Enrique Olvera, were awarded two stars.

The capital has five more Michelin-star honorees, including a street food taco joint that sells only four types of tacos.

Along with Mexico City, Baja California, Baja California Sur, Nuevo Leon, Oaxaca, and Quintana Roo were the states considered for Mexico Michelin.

Here’s the complete list of Michelin Mexico restaurants guide together with its distinction:

Mexico City Michelin Star Restaurants

1. Em (1 Michelin Star)

Em is a contemporary Michelin-star restaurant in the heart of Mexico City. Known for its innovative approach to traditional Mexican dishes, Em offers a unique dining experience combining local flavors and modern culinary techniques.

Em’s cuisine focuses on modern Mexican dishes highlighting the country’s diverse culinary traditions. The menu features a variety of small plates and tasting menus that change seasonally to reflect the freshest ingredients.

Signature dishes include innovative takes on traditional street food, seafood delicacies, and vegetarian options that showcase the versatility of Mexican flavors.

Dining at Em offers a range of pricing options, with tasting menus typically starting around $100 USD per person.

A la carte options are also available, with individual dishes priced between $15 and $30 USD.

2. Esquina Comun (1 Michelin Star)

Esquina Comun is a vibrant Michelin-star restaurant in Mexico City, celebrated for its commitment to contemporary Mexican cuisine.

Focusing on seasonal ingredients and inventive cooking techniques, Esquina Comun offers a dynamic dining experience that honors Mexico’s culinary heritage while pushing boundaries.

Esquina Comun’s menu features a blend of traditional and contemporary Mexican dishes. Highlights include handmade tortillas, fresh seafood, and various vegetarian options.

The restaurant is known for its creative presentations and use of unique ingredients, such as rare herbs and spices.

The tasting menu offers a comprehensive experience, allowing diners to sample a range of the chef’s signature creations.

Prices at Esquina Comun are reflective of its Michelin-star status, with tasting menus starting at around $90 USD per person.

A la carte options are available, with main courses ranging from $20 to $40 USD.

The restaurant also offers an extensive wine list, featuring both Mexican and international selections, to complement the meal.

3. Pujol (2 Michelin Stars)

Pujol is a world-renowned restaurant known for its sophisticated take on traditional Mexican cuisine.

It offers an extraordinary dining experience focusing on seasonal and locally sourced ingredients, artfully prepared to showcase the rich culinary heritage of Mexico.

Chef Enrique Olvera is the visionary behind Pujol. He is a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America and has worked in some of the world’s finest kitchens.

Olvera’s approach to Mexican cuisine is both reverent and innovative, blending traditional techniques with modern influences.

His dedication to quality and sustainability has earned Pujol numerous accolades, including its prestigious Michelin stars.

Pujol’s menu is a celebration of Mexican flavors, featuring dishes like mole madre, a signature sauce aged for over a thousand days, and tacos made with house-made tortillas.

The restaurant offers both a tasting menu and an omakase taco bar experience, where diners can enjoy a curated selection of the chef’s best creations.

Dining at Pujol is a premium experience, with tasting menus priced around $150 USD per person.

The omakase taco bar offers a slightly different experience, with prices starting at $120 USD per person.

While on the higher end, the quality of the food and the uniqueness of the experience make it a worthwhile investment for food enthusiasts.

4. Quintonil (2 Michelin Stars)

Quintonil is a celebrated restaurant in Mexico City, renowned for its dedication to contemporary Mexican cuisine.

Known for its farm-to-table approach, Quintonil offers an exquisite dining experience highlighting Mexican culinary traditions’ natural flavors and diverse ingredients.

Chef Jorge Vallejo, who trained under Enrique Olvera at Pujol, helms Quintonil. He has gained international acclaim for his innovative and sustainable approach to Mexican cuisine.

Vallejo emphasizes the use of local and seasonal ingredients, often sourced from the restaurant’s own garden.

His creative dishes and commitment to quality have positioned Quintonil among the top restaurants globally.

Signature items include roasted vegetables from their urban garden, fresh seafood ceviches, and intricate desserts that showcase local ingredients like cacao and tropical fruits.

The tasting menu is particularly popular, offering a curated selection of the chef’s most iconic creations.

Prices at Quintonil reflect its Michelin-star status, with tasting menus starting at around $120 USD per person.

The a la carte menu offers main courses ranging from $25 to $50 USD.

Quintonil also boasts an extensive selection of Mexican wines and craft co*cktails, perfecting the dining experience.

5. Rosetta (1 Michelin Star)

Rosetta is a distinguished Michelin-star restaurant in Mexico City, offering an enchanting blend of Italian and Mexican cuisine.

Housed in a charming early 20th-century mansion, Rosetta provides a romantic and elegant dining atmosphere, making it a favorite among both locals and tourists.

Chef Elena Reygadas, a celebrated name in the culinary world, is the driving force behind Rosetta.

A graduate of the French Culinary Institute in New York, she has honed her skills in prestigious kitchens around the globe.

Known for her innovative cooking and commitment to sustainability, Reygadas has received numerous accolades, including being named Latin America’s Best Female Chef.

The cuisine at Rosetta is a delightful fusion of Italian and Mexican flavors. The menu features handmade pastas, fresh seafood, and dishes that highlight seasonal ingredients.

Signature offerings include the beet risotto and the octopus with chile morita. The dessert menu, featuring creations like the guava tart, is equally impressive and showcases the chef’s versatility.

Dining at Rosetta typically costs around $80 to $100 USD per person for a three-course meal. Individual dishes are priced between $15 and $30 USD.

The restaurant also offers an extensive wine list, with a focus on Italian and Mexican wines, to complement the diverse menu.

6. Sud 777 (1 Michelin Star)

Sud 777 is a chic restaurant in the southern part of Mexico City, renowned for its modern Mexican cuisine.

The restaurant’s stylish design and vibrant atmosphere make it a popular spot for those looking to enjoy innovative dishes in a sophisticated setting.

Chef Edgar Núñez is the creative genius behind Sud 777. He trained at the Culinary Institute of America and has worked in top restaurants worldwide, including Noma in Denmark.

Núñez is known for his avant-garde approach to Mexican cuisine, emphasizing fresh, local ingredients and sustainable practices.

His innovative techniques and commitment to excellence have earned Sud 777 its Michelin star.

The menu at Sud 777 features a variety of modern Mexican dishes, with an emphasis on seasonal produce and creative presentations.

Highlights include their unique takes on tacos, inventive seafood dishes, and an array of vegetarian options.

The tasting menu offers a comprehensive experience of the chef’s culinary prowess, with each dish designed to surprise and delight.

Dining at Sud 777 is a premium experience, with tasting menus starting at around $100 USD per person.

A la carte options are also available, with individual dishes priced between $15 and $30 USD.

The restaurant’s extensive wine list and innovative co*cktails provide the perfect pairing for the eclectic menu.

7. Taquería El Califa de León (1 Michelin Star)

Taquería El Califa de León is a celebrated taquería in Mexico City, known for its authentic and high-quality tacos.

This Michelin-starred taco joint in Mexico City focuses on traditional flavors and fresh ingredients and offers a refined take on Mexico’s beloved street food.

It won’t be overwhelming to order as they only have 4 specialties.

Despite its Michelin star, Taquería El Califa de León offers a reasonably priced dining experience.

Tacos are typically priced between $2 and $5 USD each, making them affordable for enjoying high-quality Mexican street food.

The casual setting and quick service add to the overall appeal. You don’t need to reserve but expect long lines!

Los Cabos, Mexico Michelin Star Restaurants

8. Cocina de Autor Los Cabos

Cocina de Autor Los Cabos is an acclaimed restaurant known for its innovative and contemporary Mexican cuisine.

Located within the luxurious Grand Velas Los Cabos Resort, this Michelin-starred establishment offers an exquisite dining experience with breathtaking ocean views.

The culinary mastermind behind Cocina de Autor is Chef Sidney Schutte, a renowned chef with a distinguished career.

Schutte is a graduate of the esteemed Dutch culinary school, Cas Spijkers Academy, and has worked in several Michelin-starred restaurants across Europe, including Librije’s Zusje in Amsterdam.

His culinary philosophy emphasizes creativity, precision, and the use of premium ingredients. Chef Schutte’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of traditional Mexican cuisine has earned him numerous accolades and a reputation for excellence.

Cocina de Autor’s menu is a celebration of contemporary Mexican flavors, featuring a diverse array of dishes that highlight local ingredients and innovative techniques.

The tasting menu offers a curated journey through the chef’s signature creations, with highlights such as ceviche with tropical fruits, slow-cooked meats, and intricately prepared seafood dishes.

Dining at Cocina de Autor is a premium experience, with tasting menus typically priced around $150 to $200 USD per person.

This includes multiple courses, each paired with carefully selected wines to enhance the overall experience.

While on the higher end, the quality of the food, service, and ambiance make it a worthwhile indulgence for those seeking a memorable culinary adventure.

Monterrey, Mexico Michelin Star Restaurants

9. Koli Cocina de Origen

Koli Cocina de Origen is a celebrated restaurant in Monterrey, known for its dedication to preserving and reinventing traditional Mexican flavors.

The restaurant offers a unique dining experience, with a focus on the rich culinary heritage of northeastern Mexico.

The culinary vision at Koli is led by Chef Rodrigo Rivera-Rio, along with his brothers, Chef Daniel Rivera-Rio and Chef Patricio Rivera-Rio.

The trio has a deep-rooted passion for Mexican gastronomy, influenced by their grandmother’s traditional cooking.

Rodrigo, the head chef, has trained at prestigious culinary institutes and has worked in acclaimed restaurants worldwide.

The brothers’ collaborative approach ensures that each dish at Koli reflects their shared commitment to authenticity and innovation.

Koli Cocina de Origen’s menu is a homage to the traditional flavors of northeastern Mexico.

The tasting menu features a variety of courses, each highlighting local ingredients such as mesquite, regional herbs, and native meats.

Signature dishes include barbacoa, handmade tortillas, and creative interpretations of classic Mexican street food.

The cuisine is deeply rooted in tradition, yet presented with modern techniques and artistic flair.

Dining at Koli Cocina de Origen is a premium experience, with tasting menus typically starting at around $120 USD per person.

The menu offers a comprehensive journey through the region’s culinary heritage, with multiple courses and optional wine pairings.

While the prices reflect the high quality and creativity of the dishes, the experience is well worth the investment for those looking to explore authentic Mexican flavors.

10. Pangea

Pangea is a renowned restaurant in Monterrey, offering a sophisticated take on contemporary Mexican cuisine.

Located in the upscale San Pedro Garza Garcia area, Pangea combines elegant dining with innovative dishes that reflect both local and international influences.

The restaurant’s refined atmosphere and exceptional service make it a standout destination for fine dining.

Chef Guillermo González Beristáin is the culinary genius behind Pangea. With a background in both Mexican and French cuisine, Beristáin has trained at the Culinary Institute of America and has worked in top restaurants across Europe and the United States.

He is known for his creative approach to traditional flavors, seamlessly blending them with modern techniques.

Beristáin’s dedication to excellence and his passion for using local ingredients have established Pangea as a cornerstone of Monterrey’s gastronomic scene.

Pangea’s menu features a blend of contemporary Mexican and international dishes, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.

Signature offerings include tender ribeye steak, locally sourced seafood, and innovative vegetarian options.

The tasting menu provides a curated selection of the chef’s most acclaimed dishes, showcasing his culinary expertise and creativity.

Desserts are equally impressive, with options like the chocolate fondant and seasonal fruit tarts.

Pangea has tasting menus typically priced around $130 to $150 USD per person. A la carte options are available, with main courses ranging from $30 to $50 USD.

The restaurant also boasts an extensive wine list, featuring both Mexican and international selections, carefully curated to complement the menu.

Oaxaca, Mexico Michelin Star Restaurants

11. Levadura de Olla (1 Michelin star)

Levadura de Olla is a distinguished restaurant in Oaxaca, celebrated for its dedication to traditional Oaxacan cuisine with a modern twist.

The restaurant focuses on locally sourced ingredients, emphasizing the region’s rich culinary heritage.

Its intimate and inviting atmosphere makes it a popular choice for locals and tourists seeking an authentic Oaxacan dining experience.

Chef Thalía Barrios García leads the culinary team at Levadura de Olla. A native of Oaxaca, Chef Thalía has a deep connection to her roots and a profound respect for traditional Oaxacan cooking techniques.

She has trained at various esteemed culinary institutions and has worked in some of Mexico’s top kitchens.

Her commitment to preserving Oaxacan culinary traditions while infusing them with contemporary elements has earned her recognition and acclaim in the culinary world.

The cuisine at Levadura de Olla is a celebration of Oaxacan flavors, featuring a diverse array of traditional dishes with a modern presentation.

The menu includes staples such as mole negro, tlayudas, and fresh, locally sourced seafood. Seasonal ingredients play a significant role, ensuring that each dish is fresh and vibrant.

The restaurant also offers a variety of mezcal pairings, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Dining at Levadura de Olla is reasonably priced. A three-course meal typically costs around $60 to $80 USD per person, and individual dishes range from $10 to $25 USD.

The restaurant offers a variety of price points, making it accessible for those looking to explore high-quality Oaxacan cuisine without breaking the bank.

12. Los Danzantes Oaxaca (1 Michelin star)

Los Danzantes Oaxaca is an iconic restaurant located in the heart of Oaxaca City, known for its blend of traditional and contemporary Mexican cuisine.

The restaurant’s stunning interior, which features an open courtyard and rustic decor, provides a perfect backdrop for a memorable dining experience that highlights the flavors of Oaxaca.

Chef Omar Hernández heads the kitchen at Los Danzantes Oaxaca. With extensive experience in Mexican cuisine, Chef Hernández is passionate about incorporating local ingredients and traditional cooking methods into his dishes.

He has trained under some of Mexico’s top chefs and has a deep understanding of Oaxacan culinary traditions.

His innovative approach and dedication to quality have made him a standout figure in the Oaxacan culinary scene.

The menu at Los Danzantes Oaxaca features a wide range of dishes that celebrate the rich flavors of Oaxacan cuisine.

Signature dishes include chapulines (grasshoppers), mole dishes, and a variety of tamales. The restaurant also prides itself on its mezcal selection, with many varieties sourced from local producers.

Each dish is carefully crafted to highlight the region’s unique ingredients and culinary traditions.

A typical three-course meal at Los Danzantes Oaxaca costs around $60 to $100 USD per person.

Individual dishes range from $12 to $30 USD. The restaurant also offers tasting menus and mezcal pairings, comprehensively exploring Oaxacan flavors.

Playa del Carmen, Mexico Michelin Star Restaurants

13. Cocina de Autor Riviera Maya (1 Michelin star)

Cocina de Autor Riviera Maya is an acclaimed restaurant in the luxurious Grand Velas Riviera Maya Resort.

Known for its avant-garde approach to traditional Mexican cuisine, Cocina de Autor offers a multi-sensory dining experience that combines creative culinary techniques with the freshest local ingredients.

The restaurant’s elegant and modern ambiance makes it a premier dining destination in Playa del Carmen.

Chef Nahúm Velasco, a talented and innovative culinary artist, leads the kitchen at Cocina de Autor. Velasco has a strong background in Mexican cuisine, having trained at prestigious culinary institutions and worked alongside some of the country’s top chefs.

His approach to cooking emphasizes the fusion of traditional Mexican flavors with modern techniques, always focusing on sustainability and local sourcing.

Chef Velasco’s dedication to culinary excellence and creativity has earned him recognition and praise in the gastronomic community.

The cuisine at Cocina de Autor is a fusion of traditional Mexican flavors and modern culinary techniques.

The tasting menu features a variety of dishes that showcase local ingredients such as seafood, tropical fruits, and indigenous herbs.

Signature creations include ceviche with exotic fruits, slow-cooked meats, and artfully presented desserts.

Dining at Cocina de Autor is a premium experience, with tasting menus typically priced around $150 to $200 USD per person.

These menus include multiple courses and wine pairings, offering a comprehensive exploration of the chef’s culinary vision.

14. Ha’ (1 Michelin star)

Ha’ is an exceptional fine-dining restaurant located in the Hotel Xcaret Mexico Resort in Playa del Carmen.

The restaurant is celebrated for its innovative approach to contemporary Mexican cuisine, combining traditional flavors with modern techniques.

With a sophisticated ambiance and a focus on sustainability, Ha’ provides a unique dining experience that highlights the best of Mexican gastronomy.

Chef Carlos Gaytán, the first Mexican chef to earn a Michelin star, leads the culinary team at Ha’.

Born in Guerrero, Mexico, Gaytán’s journey began in Chicago, where he honed his skills in various prestigious kitchens before opening his own acclaimed restaurant, Mexique.

His approach to cooking is deeply influenced by his heritage and passion for innovation. Chef Gaytán’s dedication to excellence and creativity has earned him numerous accolades and a prominent place in the culinary world.

The cuisine at Ha’ is a blend of traditional Mexican flavors and contemporary culinary techniques.

The menu features a variety of dishes that celebrate the richness of Mexican ingredients, such as octopus with mole sauce, duck with hibiscus glaze, and innovative takes on classic tacos.

The tasting menu is designed to offer a journey through Mexico’s diverse culinary landscape.

Prices at Ha’ reflect its Michelin-star quality, with tasting menus typically priced around $120 to $180 USD per person.

These include several courses and optional wine pairings. The restaurant also offers an extensive selection of co*cktails and mezcal, enhancing the overall dining experience.

The high quality and creativity of the dishes make it a worthwhile splurge.

Puerto Morelos, Mexico Michelin Star Restaurants

15. Le Chique (1 Michelin star)

Le Chique is an award-winning restaurant in the Azul Beach Resort in Puerto Morelos.

Known for its avant-garde culinary approach, Le Chique offers a dining experience that challenges traditional notions of Mexican cuisine.

The restaurant features innovative dishes crafted with precision and artistry, making it a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts seeking a unique and memorable culinary journey.

Chef Jonatan Gómez Luna helms the kitchen at Le Chique. A visionary in the culinary world, Gómez Luna trained at the prestigious Basque Culinary Center in Spain and has worked under renowned chefs like Ferran Adrià at El Bulli.

His approach to cooking combines cutting-edge techniques with a deep respect for Mexican culinary traditions.

Chef Gómez Luna’s dedication to innovation and excellence has earned him numerous accolades, including recognition from the Michelin Guide.

Le Chique’s cuisine is distinctly avant-garde, pushing the boundaries of traditional Mexican flavors through the use of molecular gastronomy and contemporary techniques.

The tasting menus are designed to surprise and delight, featuring dishes that play with texture, temperature, and presentation.

Signature offerings include deconstructed classics, playful reinterpretations of Mexican street food, and imaginative seafood creations.

Dining at Le Chique is a premium experience. Tasting menus are typically priced around $150 to $200 USD per person.

These include multiple courses and optional wine pairings that complement the intricate flavors of the dishes.

The restaurant also offers a la carte options, with individual dishes priced between $20 and $50 USD, allowing for a more flexible dining experience.

Valle de Guadalupe, Mexico Michelin Star Restaurants

16. Animalon (1 Michelin star)

Animalón is a renowned restaurant in the heart of Valle de Guadalupe, known for its unique dining experience under a 200-year-old oak tree.

The restaurant offers a seasonal menu highlighting Baja California’s best local produce and seafood.

With a focus on sustainability and fresh, locally sourced ingredients, Animalón provides a one-of-a-kind culinary journey that celebrates the region’s natural bounty.

Chef Javier Plascencia, a prominent figure in the Valle de Guadalupe culinary scene, leads Animalón.

Born and raised in Tijuana, Plascencia has been instrumental in promoting Baja Med cuisine, which combines Mediterranean techniques with local Mexican ingredients.

He has trained internationally and owns several acclaimed restaurants in the region.

Chef Plascencia’s commitment to sustainability and farm-to-table dining has earned him widespread recognition and numerous awards.

The cuisine at Animalón is an innovative blend of Baja Med flavors, focusing on fresh seafood, local vegetables, and sustainably sourced meats.

The menu changes seasonally to reflect the freshest ingredients available, with dishes like ceviche, grilled octopus, and roasted lamb.

Dining at Animalón is a premium experience. Tasting menus are typically priced between $100 and $150 USD per person.

These include multiple courses, each paired with carefully selected wines. The restaurant also offers a la carte options for a more flexible dining experience.

17. Conchas de Piedra (1 Michelin star)

Conchas de Piedra is a celebrated seafood restaurant in the picturesque Valle de Guadalupe. Known for its focus on fresh shellfish and local wines, the restaurant offers a rustic yet elegant dining experience.

With a menu that changes daily based on the freshest catch, Conchas de Piedra is a must-visit for seafood lovers seeking an authentic taste of Baja California.

Chef Drew Deckman, a Michelin-starred chef with a passion for sustainable seafood, leads Conchas de Piedra.

Originally from the United States, Deckman has worked in some of Europe’s top kitchens before settling in Baja California.

His culinary philosophy emphasizes the importance of local, seasonal ingredients and traditional cooking methods.

Chef Deckman’s dedication to sustainability and excellence has made him a prominent figure in the Baja California culinary community.

The cuisine at Conchas de Piedra is centered around fresh shellfish and seafood, including oysters, clams, and mussels, sourced directly from the nearby Pacific Ocean.

The menu often features ceviche, seafood platters, and grilled shellfish, complemented by locally grown produce and artisanal breads.

Prices at Conchas de Piedra are moderate, with seafood platters and main dishes ranging from $20 to $40 USD.

The restaurant offers a variety of options, from small plates to larger sharing platters, catering to different budgets and dining preferences.

Wine pairings are available at an additional cost, enhancing the overall experience and showcasing the best local vineyards.

18. Damiana (1 Michelin star)

Damiana is a distinguished restaurant located in Valle de Guadalupe, celebrated for its farm-to-table approach and commitment to local ingredients.

In a charming rustic setting, Damiana offers a menu showcasing the best of Baja California’s seasonal produce, meats, and seafood.

The restaurant’s focus on sustainability and quality has made it a favorite among food enthusiasts and visitors to the region.

Chef Esteban Lluis, a culinary innovator with a deep passion for local ingredients, leads the kitchen at Damiana.

With extensive experience in some of Mexico’s top restaurants, Lluis has developed a unique style that blends traditional techniques with modern flavors.

He is dedicated to sourcing the freshest local produce and seafood, ensuring that every dish reflects the rich culinary heritage of Baja California.

Chef Lluis’s commitment to sustainability and excellence is evident in his creative and flavorful dishes.

The cuisine at Damiana celebrates Baja California’s diverse flavors, featuring dishes that highlight the region’s fresh produce, meats, and seafood.

The menu includes a variety of seasonal dishes, such as roasted vegetables, grilled fish, and slow-cooked meats, all prepared with a focus on enhancing the ingredients’ natural flavors.

Dining at Damiana is moderately priced, with main courses typically ranging from $25 to $50 USD.

The restaurant offers a variety of options, including a la carte dishes and tasting menus, allowing diners to choose based on their preferences and budget.

Wine pairings are available at an additional cost, ensuring a well-rounded and enjoyable meal.