There’s plenty to see and do in Sin City, with those gastronomically inclined offered a superb choice of erstwhile top Michelin Star restaurants in Las Vegas.
While Las Vegas might have previously been known for its cheerful and cheap buffet eateries, the situation is somewhat different today, with a large concentration of the world’s top restaurants gracing The Strip. These sophisticated gourmet dens are a dream come true for those who wish to savour the finesse of some of the top chefs globally.
Several of Sin City’s top restaurants have been awarded prestigious accolades in the past, with none being more esteemed than the fabled Michelin stars. Snatching the stars represents the holy grail of any restaurant that aspires to be the best in its game.
Michelin No Longer Grades Las Vegas Restaurants
Sadly, since 2010, Michelin no longer rates local restaurants, which means that there are officially no Michelin Star restaurants in Las Vegas. This is because their last local guide, published in 2009, sold very poorly. That said, many Las Vegas restaurants that got awarded with stars during that year are still open and worthy of their Michelin Star status.
Former Michelin Star Restaurants in Las Vegas
Here‘s the list of the previously awarded Michelin Star restaurants in Las Vegas that, even today, meet the standards of these aspirational accolades:
Three-Star Michelin Restaurants in Las Vegas
A three-star rating from Michelin is a formidable accomplishment, with only 135 restaurants worldwide boasting such accolade. Amongst past recipients, the Joel Robuchon Restaurant is the epitome of Vegas fine dining and, simultaneously, the only restaurant in the city that held three Michelin stars.
Famous for its glitzy Art Deco interior design, this French cuisine restaurant swanks a good garden terrace lit by crystal chandeliers and gilded marble floors. The venue requires diners to dress classy to complement the sophisticated atmosphere, enhancing the unique ambience. The head chef, Joel Robuchon, also has the honour of being Michelin’s most decorated chef, having garnered more than 31 stars during his career, assuring you outstanding cuisine.
Two-Star Michelin Restaurants in Las Vegas
While two stars might sound inferior to three, don’t be fooled. Currently, only 417 restaurants globally can claim to hold two Michelin stars. Amongst these, two Vegas restaurants previously held this award.
Located at the renowned Bellagio Hotel & Casino, Picasso is an arty restaurant decorated with several of Picasso’s paintings and ceramics splashed across a myriad of colours.
The delicious food is French- and Spanish-inspired, with head chef Julián Serrano fusing ingredients and preparation styles to create unique dishes inspired by both European countries. An extensive wine list also features over 1,500 different vinos in the restaurant’s private cellar.
Caesar’s Palace hosts the second of Las Vegas’ former two-star Michelin restaurants. Guy Savoy offers a French gastronomic experience close to The Strip in a truly romantic setting. Guy Savoy is the executive chef and divides his time between his Vegas venue and its Parisian counterpart. Diners are assured of the finest food in a beautiful setting.
One-Star Michelin Restaurants in Las Vegas
For those who think that one Michelin star is not that impressive, it is worth noting that less than 3,000 restaurants globally have been bestowed with this honour. One of the best features of these high-end restaurants is that they serve mouth-watering food in an attractive setting at a fraction of the price charged at their two- or three-star counterparts.
The waiting lists here are also considerably shorter, making these a better option for last-minute fancy dining while on vacation.
Here is the list of the former one-star Michelin restaurants you should add to your itinerary when visiting Vegas: Aureole, Wing Lei, DJT, L’Atelier de Joel Robuchon, Le Cirque, and Michael Mina.
So, where do you go with so many outstanding places to eat in Las Vegas? Michelin has done some legwork by awarding the crème de la crème with their Michelin stars. There might not be a Michelin guide to Sin City, but you won’t be dissatisfied when you enjoy a meal at any of the previously ranked Michelin Star restaurants in Las Vegas.
