Hawaii is known for its world-renowned cuisine. From the freshest seafood to the innovative creations of Hawaiian chefs, diners are always in for a treat when they visit the Aloha State. But when it comes to fine dining, does Hawaii have Michelin stars?
The answer is yes! In 2020, two restaurants in Hawaii earned their first Michelin stars: La Mer at the Halekulani Hotel in Waikiki and Senia in Honolulu’s Chinatown. The award puts them on par with some of the world’s best restaurants and firmly establishes Hawaii as a premier culinary destination.
Each year, inspectors from Michelin’s Guide to Fine Dining visit thousands of restaurants around the globe. They evaluate each restaurant based on five criteria: quality of ingredients, mastery of flavor and cooking techniques, the personality of the chef in his cuisine, value for money and consistency between visits. Restaurants that receive three stars are considered exceptional establishments that are worth a special journey.
La Mer at Halekulani Hotel
La Mer at Halekulani Hotel is an award-winning French-Japanese fusion restaurant located on Waikiki Beach. Led by chef Yves Garnier, La Mer offers an exquisite mix of French technique and Japanese ingredients. Dishes such as Kona lobster with black truffle butter sauce and Hawaiian opah with foie gras mousse are sure to delight even the most discerning diner.
Senia
Senia is one of Honolulu’s hottest new restaurants, offering an inventive take on modern American cuisine. It features dishes like sous vide pork belly with honey mustard jus and crispy Brussels sprouts with a miso glaze.
Led by acclaimed chefs Chris Kajioka and Anthony Rush, Senia has earned rave reviews from diners around the world.
These two restaurants have put Hawaii firmly on the map when it comes to fine dining. With their Michelin stars, they join an elite group of establishments that have been recognized for their excellence in cuisine.
Conclusion
Yes, Hawaii does indeed have Michelin stars thanks to two incredible restaurants: La Mer at Halekulani Hotel and Senia in Honolulu’s Chinatown. These two establishments offer unique dining experiences that highlight Hawaiian ingredients and flavors in innovative ways that have earned them global recognition from one of the most prestigious culinary organizations in the world.