Let’s be real: Could a French tire company really encapsulate what good dining in Los Angeles entails? Apparently, they’re still going to try. The largely Eurocentric international guide has released its fourth post-pandemic guide for California, and thus the City of Angels. In 2024, Michelin yanked stars from n/naka and Sushi Ginza Onodera—thus demoting each to one star—and awarded Gilberto Cetina Jr.’s beloved Yucatecan-style mariscos counter, Holbox, a well-deserved star. Aside from Holbox, all new restaurants this year fell into the Japanese or “tasting menu” category, with prices in the four dollar sign range. As always, the nearly century-old Big Red Book proves that while age is just a number, culinary elitism is timeless.
For those blissfully unaware of what the Michelin Guide is, here’s how it all goes down: The star ratings, while not universally celebrated, are considered the most prestigious award any restaurant could ever receive. One star denotes “a very good restaurant,” two signifies “excellent cooking that is worth a detour” and three stars, most coveted of all, translates to “exceptional cuisine that is worth a special journey.” A newer Bib Gourmand category, added to their 2019 guide to California, also recognizes more affordable spots, with seven new L.A. area additions in 2024.
To determine these ratings, the guide’s anonymous inspectors visit and judge restaurants according to quality, atmosphere, service and even nominal details, such as how far apart the tables are spaced. With a clear bias towards fine dining and blatant roots in a culture of Western imperialism, the Michelin Guide is just one measure of excellence in food and hospitality among many—particularly in a city as rich in amazing street food and multicultural cuisine such as L.A.
However, if you still have (French multinational tire brand) stars in your eyes, look no further: We’ve updated our list of the city’s Michelin-starred restaurants for 2024. Of note: L.A. has zero three-star spots, the highest award the guide confers, though you can always drive down to Addison in San Diego if you’re interested in that sort of thing.