How Many Michelin 5 Star Restaurants Are There in the World?

The Michelin Guide is a respected publication that awards stars to restaurants based on their quality of cuisine, service, decor, and overall dining experience. The highest award is the coveted three-star rating, which signifies an “exceptional cuisine worth a special journey.” But how many Michelin 5 star restaurants are there in the world?

The answer is surprisingly few. As of 2021, only 138 restaurants have been awarded the maximum three-star rating by the Michelin Guide.

Of those 138 restaurants, only two are located in the United States: The French Laundry in Yountville, California and Alinea in Chicago. The remaining 136 restaurants are spread out across Europe, Asia and Australia.

Europe is home to the most three-star rated restaurants with a total of 115 establishments. France leads the way with 79 restaurants while Italy has 22 and Germany has seven. Other European countries with three-star rated restaurants include Spain (5), Switzerland (2), Belgium (2), Denmark (1), Netherlands (1) and Hungary (1).

Asia has nine three-star rated restaurants including six in Japan and one each in Macau, Hong Kong and South Korea. Australia has two three-star rated establishments: Attica in Melbourne and Brae in Birregurra.

The Michelin Guide also awards two stars to exceptional establishments that are worth a detour off one’s route for a special meal. As of 2021 there are 437 two-star rated restaurants around the world including 52 located across North America.

In conclusion, there are only 138 Michelin 5 star restaurants located around the world – 115 of them being found across Europe with other establishments scattered throughout Asia and Australia. While it may seem like there are not many five star rated eateries compared to other ratings given by the Michelin Guide, these exclusive establishments offer an unforgettable dining experience that makes them well worth seeking out if you’re ever lucky enough to find yourself nearby.