Food & Drink

Helsinki’s Michelin Star Restaurants: A Culinary Journey

Likes to travel and loves to eat even more. Always happy to explore!

Helsinki, the capital city of Finland, is renowned for its stunning architecture, pristine parks, and vibrant culture. However, the city’s culinary scene is equally remarkable, with several Michelin-starred restaurants in Helsinki offering food enthusiasts a unique gastronomic experience. Helsinki’s Michelin restaurants have gained worldwide acclaim for their innovative cuisine, exceptional service, and distinctive Finnish flavors. From classic Finnish dishes to contemporary fusion cuisine, Michelin restaurants Helsinki offer an unmatched culinary journey. In this essay, we will explore the beautiful world of Helsinki’s Michelin restaurants, their history, and the culinary magic they create, leaving visitors with an unforgettable experience.

Farang

Farang Restaurant Helsinki

Embark on a captivating journey into the heart of South-East Asian cuisine with Farang. Farang is a haven that celebrates the art of slow food with the finest ingredients and modern cooking techniques, bringing authentic Asian flavors to the table.

Farang’s chefs are known for their passion for exploring new combinations, components, and tastes. Their mission is to create excellent food that tantalizes the senses and transports guests to the vibrant streets of South-East Asia. All meals are prepared with great attention to detail, intense and harmonious aromas that will leave guests yearning for more.

At Farang, the atmosphere is sociable and relaxed, with friendly and professional service that elevates the dining experience to new heights. So, join Farang on a culinary journey where authenticity meets innovation and tradition meets modernity. Discover the magic of South-East Asian cuisine and experience the culinary delights Farang offers.

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Hours: 11:30-00:30 Monday to Saturday, closed on Sunday
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Boon Nam

 

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Discover the vibrant and unique flavors of Thai cuisine in Helsinki with Boon Nam, a restaurant that takes you on a culinary journey to the heart of Thailand. Boon Nam, which means ‘born with good fortune,’ is the perfect destination for indulging in authentic Thai cuisine with utmost elegance.

Boon Nam celebrates the diversity of Thai cuisine by utilizing ancient cooking methods and the best ingredients to create a fresh and sophisticated experience. With a menu that features many colorful and unique dishes, guests are in for a treat that will tantalize their taste buds. Whether you’re in the mood for aromatic curries, spicy salads, or soups, Boon Nam has it all.

The chefs at Boon Nam are masters at their craft, ensuring that every dish is prepared with the freshest and highest quality ingredients. They use traditional cooking techniques to create a truly authentic taste that is unmatched. From the first bite, you will feel transported to the streets of Thailand. The ambiance at Boon Nam in Helsinki is elegant and inviting, with a warm and welcoming ambiance is great for hanging out with friends or a romantic dinner for two. The attentive and friendly staff ensure that every guest is treated like royalty, making the dining experience memorable.

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Hours: Monday to Thursday 17:00 – 00:00
Friday to Saturday 16.30 – 00:00
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Finnjävel Sali & Salonki

Finnjavel Helsinki

Finnjävel celebrates the unique gastronomy of Finland in a modern and sophisticated way, paying homage to the true masters of Finnish cuisine. With carefully chosen ingredients from selected Finnish farms and forests, Finnjävel’s two restaurants offer casual dining inspired by Finnish home cooking and Michelin-starred fine dining. Located in the Taidehalli art exhibition building, the restaurant’s unique Finnish design by renowned designers and architects Kivi and Tuuli Sotamaa adds to the overall exceptional dining experience.

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Hours: Tuesday to Saturday 11:30-23:00, Closed on Sunday and Monday
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Boulevard

Restaurant Boulevard

Located in the middle of Helsinki, Finland, Restaurant Boulevard is a quaint and sophisticated restaurant. This restaurant has quickly become a favorite among both locals and visitors thanks to its charming atmosphere, friendly service, and delicious sea food. Finnish, Scandinavian, and international dishes, all made from scratch with premium ingredients, are available here. An extensive wine list has been compiled to complement the dishes served at the restaurant. Restaurant Boulevard is ideal for both a quiet evening for two and a lively group of friends.

The staff is attentive and helpful, and they are more than happy to make suggestions or answer any questions you may have. With its prime location and impeccable reputation, Restaurant Boulevard is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a truly unforgettable dining experience in Helsinki.

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Hours: Tuesday to Saturday 17:00-21:30, Closed on Sunday and Monday
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Gaijin

 

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The Gaijin kitchen boasts a one-of-a-kind culinary adventure, deeply rooted in a love for Japanese cuisine but unafraid to challenge traditional methods and add a cheeky personal touch to each dish. With a focus on quality ingredients, diners can expect the finest cuts of tuna belly and deep-fried haunches of chicken gump, among other exciting menu items.

At the six-person kitchen counters, guests will be delighted as Edward, the mastermind behind the menu, personally curates a 7-12 course meal that changes with the seasons. Guests can choose from a set menu or order à la carte dishes in the remaining restaurant. Whether experiencing the chef’s choice or selecting their own, patrons will be treated to a fascinating and unforgettable dining experience at the Gaijin kitchen.

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Hours: Monday to Saturday 17:00-21:30, 17:00-23:00 on Sunday
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Lily Lee

Lily Lee helsinki

Lily’s starred restaurant brings the unique cuisine of Taiwan to Helsinki, inspired by a mix of Hakka-style cooking, Japanese flavors, and classical Cantonese methods. With a dedication to craftsmanship, constant innovation, and using only the finest ingredients, Lily’s offers modern and contemporary dishes using ancient recipes and traditional techniques. From dim sum to grilled meats and fresh seafood, the diverse menu showcases the fundamental tastes of salty, sweet, sour, bitter, and hot. With larger dishes for sharing and a cozy family-style atmosphere, Lily’s is a must-visit for anyone seeking an exceptional dining experience.

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Hours: Tuesday to Thursday 17:00–00:00, Friday to Saturday 16:30-00:00
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Muru

Muru is widely regarded as one of the best restaurants in Helsinki, Finland, and its philosophy is a testament to why. The restaurant focuses on simplicity and quality, emphasizing selecting only the finest ingredients and preparing them without any unnecessary frills or tricks. The result is a menu that changes almost daily and consistently delights diners with its seasonal offerings.

Among Muru’s most popular options is their 4-course Daily Menu, which showcases the best of the season’s ingredients and is priced at a reasonable 59€. But the food is not the only highlight of the dining experience. Muru is also renowned for its expert wine pairings. The restaurant has been awarded Wine Spectator’s Best Award of Excellence for three years, a testament to its commitment to serving only the best wines to complement its dishes. For a genuinely fascinating culinary adventure in Helsinki, Muru is an absolute must-visit.

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Hours: Monday to Friday 09:00-15:30, 13:00-23:30 on Saturday, Closed on Sunday and Monday
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Ateljé Finne

Restaurant Ateljé Finne

Restaurant Ateljé Finne is a standout Finnish restaurant Helsinki has to offer, beloved by locals and visitors alike. The building’s stunning Art Nouveau architecture, once the studio of famous Finnish artist Gunnar Finne, is a beautiful backdrop to the restaurant’s creative and modern Nordic cuisine. Chef Matti Jämsén’s menu features fresh and seasonal ingredients, focusing on bold flavors and inventive techniques. Diners can opt for a la carte dishes or indulge in the full-tasting menu with expertly paired wines. But what truly sets Ateljé Finne apart is the restaurant’s commitment to creating an unforgettable dining experience, from the impeccable service to the cozy and intimate atmosphere. For a taste of Finland’s culinary excellence, Restaurant Ateljé Finne is an essential destination in Helsinki.

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Hours: Monday to Saturday 17:00-23:00, Closed on Sunday
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Ragu

Restaurant-Ragu

Ragu is a charming restaurant in Helsinki that combines the best of two culinary worlds. With a focus on the highest quality ingredients and a deep respect for tradition, Ragu offers diners a unique and inspired dining experience.

The menu features a creative fusion of Scandinavian and Italian flavors, with each dish crafted to showcase the best of both cuisines. From classic Italian pasta dishes to innovative Scandinavian seafood, every plate is a masterpiece that beautifully captures the essence of Ragu’s culinary philosophy. For those seeking a truly unforgettable meal in Finland, Ragu is a must-visit destination.

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Hours: Monday to Saturday 10:00-00:00, Closed on Sunday
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Savoy

Savoy Helsinki

Experience the allure of Helsinki’s culinary scene at the legendary Savoy restaurant. For over 80 years, Savoy has stood as a beacon of refined dining in the city’s heart, overlooking the picturesque Esplanade Park. Under the leadership of Chef Patron Helena Puolakka since 2019, Savoy continues to push the boundaries of Finnish-French cuisine, with a nod to the region’s rich Russian heritage.

The restaurant’s impressive wine cellar, one of the largest in Finland, is sure to impress even the most discerning oenophiles. It’s no surprise that Savoy has been a consistent fixture in the coveted Michelin Guides, a testament to the restaurant’s unwavering commitment to culinary excellence. With its timeless ambiance, impeccable service, and innovative cuisine, a visit to Savoy is a must for any food lover visiting Helsinki.

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Hours: Monday to Friday 11:30-00:00, 18:00-00:00 on Saturday, Closed on Sunday
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Demo

Demo Restaurant Helsinki

In the bustling culinary landscape of Helsinki, one restaurant has managed to stand out with its unique blend of memorable experiences, delectable food, and relaxed ambiance. Established in 2003, this restaurant was the brainchild of two passionate friends determined to create something extraordinary. Their unwavering commitment to this vision paid off in 2007 when the restaurant was awarded the coveted Michelin Star, cementing its reputation as one of the top restaurants in Helsinki.

This restaurant has continued to be a beacon of reliability and culinary excellence, attracting food lovers from all over the city and beyond. For those seeking a truly unforgettable dining experience in Helsinki, this restaurant should be at the top of their list.

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Hours: Tuesday to Thursday 17:00-23:00, Friday to Saturday 16:00-23:00, Closed on Sunday
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EMO

Restaurant Emo Helsinki

Nestled in the heart of Helsinki, Emo restaurant is a culinary oasis that promises to transport diners to a world of pure gastronomic delight. With a passion for food and a commitment to excellence, Emo offers an unrivaled dining experience in the city. Their ever-changing menu is inspired by the Nordic region’s seasonal bounty, focusing on small, local producers.

Emo’s drinks selection is equally impressive, with an expertly curated wine list and trend-setting cocktails that follow international trends. It’s no wonder that Emo has been recognized by the coveted Michelin Guides, a testament to the restaurant’s unwavering dedication to culinary excellence. But what truly sets Emo apart is its commitment to creating a warm, inviting atmosphere that makes every guest feel like family. For those seeking an unforgettable dining experience in Helsinki, Emo is a must-visit.

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Hours: Monday to Friday 17:00-00:00, Saturday 16:00-00:00, Closed on Sunday
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Grön

Restaurant Grön

Grön’s commitment to culinary excellence and environmental sustainability has earned them the coveted Michelin Guide Helsinki recognition. This accolade is a testament to the restaurant’s unwavering dedication to creating unique, high-quality dishes celebrating the region’s natural bounty.

Grön’s 18-seat setting with an open kitchen makes for a truly intimate dining experience that allows guests to fully appreciate the creativity and craftsmanship that goes into every dish. For those looking for a unique culinary journey that is both sustainable and unforgettable, Grön is a must-visit in Helsinki.

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Hours: Monday to Saturday 17:00-00:00, Closed on Sunday
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Nolla

Restaurant Nolla

Nolla is a Michelin Helsinki-based restaurant that prioritizes sustainability in everything it does. From sourcing local and seasonal ingredients to using an in-house composter to minimize waste, Nolla is committed to reducing its environmental impact.

The restaurant also considers sustainability in its clothing and energy consumption, making it a truly holistic approach to sustainable dining. Make sure to try their delicious Polenta if you ever stop by!

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Hours: Tuesday to Thursday 17:00-23:00, Friday and Saturday 17:00-00:00, Closed on Sunday and Monday
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Natura

Restaurant Natura

Natura is a cozy and intimate restaurant located in Helsinki, Finland. Their mission is to bring diners closer to nature by offering an authentic farm-to-table experience. The menu is inspired by Finland’s best ingredients, focusing on using seasonal produce from local farmers and foragers. Each dish is carefully crafted with simple yet creative presentations to bring out the ingredients’ natural flavors.

The warm and inviting atmosphere of the restaurant, combined with the delicious food, makes for a truly unforgettable dining experience. Make sure to try out their signature dessert, the frozen yogurt; it will surprise you.

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Hours: Wednesday to Sunday 17:00-00:00, Closed on Monday and Tuesday
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Vinkkeli

Vinkkeli Restaurant

Photo Credit: @vinkkeli

Located in the heart of Helsinki’s charming Kaartinkaupunki neighborhood, Michelin-recommended Restaurant Vinkkeli is a must-visit destination for food and wine enthusiasts. Offering a friendly and uncomplicated take on classic cuisine, Vinkkeli’s devotion to selecting ingredients is matched by its carefully curated wine and drink selection.

Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or enjoy a good glass of vino, Vinkkeli’s wine list will surely impress. Featuring various wines indicative of their origin, Vinkkeli takes pride in offering its patrons an unparalleled wine and dining experience. The steak tartare is a must if you decide to dine at Restaurant Vinkkeli.

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Hours: Monday 11:30-14:00, Tuesday to Friday 11:30-00:00, Saturday 17:00-00:00, Closed on Sunday
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Toca

Toca Helsinki

Nestled in the heart of Helsinki lies Toca, a culinary gem offering a unique food exploration. The chef behind the tantalizing menu is Gennaro, who honed his skills in high-class European restaurants before bringing his expertise to Helsinki. Alongside his brother Pietro, they combine Italian, Finnish cuisine, Helsinki, and global influences to create dishes bursting with flavor, using only the freshest and highest quality ingredients. Every word is crafted with precision and care, allowing diners to savor their food’s unique and classical flavors.

Toca’s drinks list is no less impressive, with Elina curating a selection of her favorites from Italy. The wine list is contemporary and adjusted with an eye to global trends, while the drinks menu features a mix of beers, cocktails, and other exceptional beverages. If you can, try the deer for the main course of your meal, you will not be disappointed!

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Hours: Tuesday to Saturday 17:30-23:00, Closed on Sunday and Monday
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Ventuno

Ventuno is an exquisite and traditional Finnish restaurant Helsinki has in its heart. With a prime location in one of the city’s most beautiful areas, it offers a laid-back and welcoming atmosphere where guests can savor the best flavors of Italy. The restaurant takes pride in using only the finest ingredients to create delicious, hand-made pasta and other authentic Italian dishes.

The centerpiece of the osteria is the original Neapolitan wood-fired oven, which infuses the words with its distinctive aroma and flavor. Don’t leave without trying the Frutta Cotta and cheese platter!

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Hours: Tuesday to Thursday 17:00-23:00, Friday and Saturday 17:00-00:00, Closed on Sunday and Monday
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Palace

Restaurant Palace

Palace, established in 1952, is an iconic restaurant that has been at the forefront of Finnish gastronomy for over half a century. It holds a special place in the hearts of Helsinki’s food enthusiasts, having received the first-ever Michelin star award for a Finnish restaurant in 1987. Perched on the 10th floor of a historic building commemorating the 1952 Olympic Games in Helsinki, Palace offers stunning views of the city and its seascape.

Under the guidance of Chef Eero Vottonen, the kitchen team creates an innovative and refined Nordic dining experience that showcases the best of Finnish cuisine. From the exquisite presentation to using locally sourced, seasonal ingredients, every detail is carefully considered to offer guests a truly unforgettable culinary experience.  Usually, it is difficult to come across the custom of Finns that is to eat sweets and drink coffee after meals in fine dining restaurants, but not at Restaurant Palace! Make sure to try the classic Finnish “tiger cake” with coffee after your meal.

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Hours: Wednesday to Saturday 18:00-00:00, Closed on Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday
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Olo

Located in the heart of Helsinki, Olo is a fine dining destination that has captivated guests with its innovative Nordic cuisine since 2010. With a focus on using the freshest local ingredients from the northern region, the talented chefs at Olo aim to create unforgettable taste sensations and combinations that are elegant and approachable. Their dedication to excellence has earned them a coveted Michelin star since 2011.

The restaurant is a beautiful and inviting space, with friendly and knowledgeable staff and an impressive selection of high-quality wines to complement the menu. Whether looking for a romantic night out or a special celebration with friends and family, Olo will leave a lasting impression. You are likely to be served a several course meal, at the end you can try the very uniquely flavored cookies; fennel and almond, spruce and bilberry, and corn and chocolate.

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Hours: Tuesday to Saturday 16:00-00:00, Closed on Sunday and Monday
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Shelter

Nestled in the heart of Helsinki’s trendy Punavuori district, Restaurant Shelter offers a unique dining experience that marries Nordic and Asian flavors with a touch of Russian influence. The interior is cozy and inviting, featuring exposed brick walls, warm lighting, and an open kitchen that allows diners to see the chefs at work. The seasonal menu focuses on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and changes regularly to reflect the best produce of the moment. The dishes are expertly prepared and beautifully presented, with a strong emphasis on flavor and texture.

Guests can choose from various tasting menus, which showcase the restaurant’s signature dishes and allow diners to sample a range of tastes and techniques. With its innovative cuisine, warm atmosphere, and impeccable service, Restaurant Shelter is a must-visit destination for any foodie exploring Helsinki’s vibrant dining scene. The 5-course tasting menu is the ultimate choice at Restaurant Shelter.

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Hours: Monday to Saturday 17:00-24:00, Closed on Sunday
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Young Hearts

Restaurant Young Hearts

Nestled in the heart of Helsinki, Restaurant Young Hearts offers a modern take on international cuisine under the skilled guidance of Finnish Master Chef Patrik Lindström. The dining room, located downstairs, offers an extensive menu that changes with the seasons and a shorter menu for those in a hurry.

Every dish is carefully paired with delicious wine recommendations explicitly chosen and an impressive wine list featuring traditional and unique selections; guests can always find the perfect bottle to accompany their meal. The restaurant’s attention to detail and commitment to culinary excellence make it a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts. Make sure to try the 4-course surprise menu!

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Hours: Tuesday to Saturday 16:00-00:00, Closed on Sunday and Monday
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Ora

ora restaurant helsinki

Ora is a restaurant in Helsinki that prides itself on serving ethical, pure, and local ingredients to create an unforgettable dining experience for its guests. At Ora, time is of the essence, and they kindly request that diners arrive on time so as not to disrupt the schedule of their meticulously planned menu. With approximately 3.5 hours, the menu is served simultaneously to the entire dining room, offering a carefully crafted selection of dishes to savor. Ora can also accommodate dietary restrictions with advance notice, offering various menu options without milk protein, nuts, fish, and seafood, as well as lacto-ovo, pescovegetarian, and vegan menus.

With a commitment to healthy and symptom-free dining, Ora ensures that request can enjoy their meal to the fullest. The tasting menu at Restaurant Ora is updated regularly; however they always manage to pleasantly surprise their clientele. Your meals are likely to be paired with a great selection of wines that come from family-owned vineyards in Italy, Spain, and Austria.

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Hours: Wednesday to Saturday 18:30-23:00, Closed on Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday
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As you may already realise, Helsinki’s Michelin-starred restaurants offer a remarkable dining experience for those looking for exceptional cuisine. With a total of six Michelin-starred restaurants, Helsinki’s food scene showcases the culinary talent of the city’s chefs and their dedication to local ingredients and innovative cooking techniques. From the seafood-focused dishes at Ora to the contemporary Finnish cuisine Helsinki has to offer at Grön, each Michelin-starred restaurant in Helsinki has its own unique identity and style. Whether you’re a foodie or simply looking for a special occasion dinner, Helsinki’s Michelin-starred restaurants are definitely worth a visit.

FAQs

How many are Michelin Star restaurants in Helsinki?

As of the latest Michelin Guide Helsinki restaurants, seven restaurants were awarded Michelin stars. These include Atelier Olo, Grön, Demo, Ora, Palace, Chef & Sommelier, and Gastrologik.

How many Michelin-star restaurants are in Finland?

As of 2021, there are 22 Michelin-star restaurants in Finland.

How do you get a Michelin Green Star?

The Michelin Green Star is awarded to restaurants firmly committed to sustainability and environmentalism. To be considered for the award, restaurants must meet specific criteria, such as using locally sourced and organic ingredients, reducing waste, and implementing sustainable practices. The award is not based on the quality of the food but rather on the restaurant's environmental efforts.

What is the highest restaurant rating?

The highest restaurant rating is three Michelin stars.

Who is No. 1 chef in world?

No. 1 Chef in the World is subjective and varies depending on organizations and rankings. However, some of the most renowned chefs in the world include Massimo Bottura, René Redzepi, Joan Roca, and Dominique Crenn, among others.
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