When Did Inn at Little Washington Get Third Michelin Star?

In the history of the Michelin Guide, only a few restaurants have ever achieved the coveted three-star rating. The Inn at Little Washington, located in Virginia’s Rappahannock County, is one of these select few.

The Inn at Little Washington first opened in 1978 and quickly rose to fame for its creative American cuisine, sourced from local and seasonal ingredients. Its focus on quality and creativity earned it enough recognition to be awarded two Michelin stars in 2004—a huge accomplishment for any restaurant.

The restaurant hit a milestone in 2019 when it was awarded its third Michelin star. This makes it just one of six restaurants in the United States to receive the highest rating from the prestigious guide.

The honor is especially meaningful for chef and proprietor Patrick O’Connell, who has dedicated his life to creating impeccable dining experiences. His commitment to excellence has been rewarded with a rare opportunity to join an elite group of just three-star establishments across the globe.

In order to earn this esteemed recognition, O’Connell and his team had to prove their culinary excellence beyond a doubt. The Inn at Little Washington underwent a rigorous inspection process by Michelin inspectors who examined every aspect of their operation—from food presentation to service quality—to ensure that they met all criteria for a three-star rating.

O’Connell is no stranger to accolades. He has won numerous awards throughout his career, including James Beard Foundation Awards for Outstanding Chef, Outstanding Restaurateur, and Humanitarian of the Year. However, he considers this latest achievement “the pinnacle of my professional life thus far.”

The Inn at Little Washington received its third Michelin star on November 5th, 2019 – an historic moment not only for O’Connell but also for Virginia’s culinary scene as a whole. It is now one of only two restaurants in Virginia with this esteemed title – cementing its place as one of the best restaurants in the country.

When Did Inn at Little Washington Get Third Michelin Star? The Inn at Little Washington achieved its third Michelin star on November 5th 2019 – an incredible honor that recognizes its dedication to culinary excellence and innovation over many years. This makes it one of only six establishments in the United States with this distinction setting it apart as one of the best restaurants in America.