Three New Orleans restaurants just claimed their place among the world’s culinary elite, marking a watershed moment for Southern cuisine. Emeril’s made regional history by earning two Michelin stars—the first restaurant in the entire American South to achieve this distinction.
The landmark recognition arrives as part of Michelin’s inaugural guide to Southern cuisine, finally acknowledging what food lovers have known for decades.
The starred trio represents the city’s culinary breadth perfectly. Emeril’s, now helmed by E.J. Lagasse (son of founder Emeril Lagasse), transformed into a sophisticated tasting menu experience that earned both two stars and the Young Chef Award for E.J.
Saint-Germain, the intimate 12-seat Bywater gem run by chefs Trey Smith and Blake Aguillard, captivates diners with experimental ten-course experiences that showcase creative technique-driven cuisine. Zasu showcases James Beard winner Sue Zemanick’s masterful blend of Gulf seafood and Eastern European influences in Mid-City’s most welcoming fine dining room.
Beyond the stars, Michelin recognized New Orleans’ democratic dining excellence across every price point and neighborhood:
This comprehensive recognition spans from legendary po-boy shops to cutting-edge tasting menus.
- 11 restaurants earned Bib Gourmand status for exceptional value, including legends like Dooky Chase’s and Parkway Bakery
- 18 additional establishments received “recommended” designation, spanning Ethiopian to modern Israeli cuisine
- Total regional coverage includes 228 restaurants across the American South, with New Orleans claiming the lion’s share of accolades
This recognition transforms New Orleans from a regional food destination into a global culinary capital. Food tourism—already worth hundreds of millions to the local economy—will likely surge as Michelin stars carry international weight that transcends even James Beard Awards.
The timing couldn’t be better, with post-pandemic travelers prioritizing authentic, memorable dining experiences over generic luxury.
The stars validate what locals never doubted: New Orleans cuisine isn’t just comfort food or tourist fare. It’s sophisticated, innovative, and worthy of the world’s most discerning palates. After decades of being overlooked by international dining guides, the Crescent City finally has the recognition to match its reputation.
