How Many Three Star Michelin Restaurants Are There?

When it comes to fine dining, there are few greater accolades than being awarded three Michelin stars. The Michelin Guide is widely regarded as the most prestigious restaurant guide in the world and has become a benchmark for excellence among restaurants. A three-star rating means that not only is the food of the highest quality and prepared with exquisite care, but also that the ambiance and service are exemplary.

The number of three-star Michelin restaurants has been slowly increasing over the years, with 2020 seeing a total of 129 establishments around the world. Of those, France has by far the highest number with 33, followed by Germany (12) and Japan (11). Meanwhile, Spain and Italy both have nine three-star restaurants, while the United States has seven.

The process for earning a three-star rating is rigorous. A team of Michelin inspectors visit each restaurant anonymously and assess it against five criteria: quality of ingredients used; mastery of flavors; value for money; consistency over time; and creativity. Restaurants must demonstrate excellence in all five areas to be eligible for consideration.

Earning three stars is an incredible achievement and reflects decades of hard work by chefs and restaurateurs. The coveted accolade can give a huge boost to a restaurant’s reputation and often leads to long waiting lists for reservations.

In conclusion, only 129 restaurants around the world have achieved the highest possible rating from the Michelin Guide – three stars.

The process to earn such recognition is grueling but ultimately rewarding for those who can attain it.