On June 24, 2025, Sacramento served as the stage for the annual Michelin Guide: California ceremony, uniting chefs from across the Golden State in celebration of culinary excellence and innovation.
This year marked the 125th anniversary of the Michelin Guide, continuing its tradition of recognizing the finest dining experiences.
The San Francisco Bay Area and Northern California stood out once again with numerous accolades.
Among the highlights of the evening was Kiln, a restaurant led by chef John Wesley, which earned its first Michelin star just a year after its opening.
Wesley, who hails from San Jose, previously honed his skills at notable establishments such as Sons and Daughters and Oakland’s Commis.
Another significant achievement came from Enclos situated in Sonoma, which was awarded two Michelin stars under the leadership of chef Brian Limoges.
Enclos is celebrated for its culinary creativity and unique ambiance, having transformed a renovated Victorian home into a dining destination.
In Oakland’s East Bay, Sun Moon Studio also received a Michelin star, marking the debut of owners Alan Hsu and Sarah Cooper.
The duo previously crossed paths while working at the esteemed Blue Hill at Stone Barns in New York, and they have made a name for themselves by blending Taiwanese and French influences in their foraged goods menu.
Sons and Daughters, meanwhile, earned a Green Michelin Star for its commitment to sustainability, with chef Harrison Cheney preparing to expand into a larger space in the Mission.
Enclos shared this honor, with Limoges being recognized for his nearby garden that contributes to the restaurant’s dishes.
In a noteworthy moment, the Michelin guide reported that no three- or two-star establishments lost their stars this year, along with the Green Star holders.
However, the esteemed Chez TJ in Mountain View fell off the list, leaving a notable gap.
The ceremony not only honored restaurants but also distinguished individuals, with special awards given out throughout the night.
The Michelin Cocktail Award went to Eylan, located in Menlo Park, with Christopher Longoria accepting the honor for the bar team.
Eylan is a new venture by chefs Srijith Gopinathan and Ayesha Thapar from Ettan and Copra, respectively.
During his acceptance speech, Longoria highlighted the innovative blend of California-Indian flavors on the cocktail menu.
The Michelin Sommelier Award was awarded to Chris Barnum-Dann from Localis, another restaurant that secured its first star in 2022.
Localis showcased its culinary talent by serving bites in the lobby before the main ceremony, held inside the SAFE Credit Union Performing Arts Center.
Nick Peyton from Cyrus in Geyserville received the Michelin Service Award.
Inspectors praised Peyton’s long tenure at the restaurant, describing his exceptional service as a rarity deserving recognition.
As the ceremony unfolded, Emcee Java Ingram turned the spotlight on Visit Sacramento’s president Mike Testa, who emphasized the role of culinary tourism in attracting diners to the capital.
The Michelin Guide has significantly expanded its reach since moving to San Francisco in 2007 and further broadening its scope across California in 2019.
Notably, Sommi and Providence made headlines by becoming the first Los Angeles restaurants to receive three Michelin stars, with accolades for each coming shortly before the ceremony.
The Bay Area’s prestigious Michelin list for 2025 has been unveiled, showcasing the best dining establishments in the region.
Among them, the three-star restaurants include Atelier Crenn, Benu, The French Laundry, Quince, and SingleThread, standing as paragons of culinary artistry.
Two-star establishments this year consist of Acquerello, Aubergine, Birdsong, Californios, Commis, Enclos, Harbor House, Kiln, Lazy Bear, Saison, and Sons & Daughters.
A diverse lineup of one-star restaurants includes 7 Adams, Angler, Auberge du Soleil, Auro, Chez Noir, Cyrus, Hilda and Jesse, Kenzo, Kin Khao, The Kitchen, Le Comptoir at Bar Crenn, Localis, Madcap, Mister Jiu’s, Nari, Niku Steakhouse, Nisei, O’ by Claude Le Tohic, Osito, Plumed Horse, Press, The Progress, Protégé, San Ho Won, Selby’s, The Shota, Sorrel, Ssal, State Bird Provisions, The Village Pub, Wakuriya, and more.
This year’s ceremony not only celebrates culinary excellence but also highlights the unwavering spirit of chefs and the culinary arts in California.
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