Michelin's arrival could motivate Utah restaurants to up their game
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The renowned Michelin Guide is expanding to the American Southwest, giving Utah its first real shot at the sought-after recognition.
Why it matters: No Utah restaurant has ever earned a Michelin nod, but the 2026 guide is expected to feature the Wasatch Region as the state's dining scene matures and local chefs garner national attention.
State of play: The Southwest guide will evaluate Utah, Arizona, Nevada and New Mexico, the Michelin Guide announced last week.
- "We are excited to showcase the distinct cuisine styles that are representative of the cultures throughout the Southwest, which blends a rich mix of traditions and culinary talent," Gwendal Poullennec, Michelin guide's international director, said in a statement.
What we're watching: The Central Ninth bar Water Witch was among five national finalists for the James Beard Award for outstanding bar earlier this year.
- In 2024, two Salt Lake City chefs — Mazza Cafe's Ali Sabbah and Urban Hill's Nick Zocco — were named James Beard Award finalists for best chef in the mountain region.
The latest: Anonymous inspectors are already evaluating the region on quality, blend of flavors, technique, chef personality and consistency, with each restaurant visited multiple times within a given year.
What they're saying: "It's gonna create an atmosphere where everyone is gonna be cognizant of upping their game," Salt Lake Area Restaurant Association executive director Michele Corigliano told Axios.
- She said she hopes the guide will help Utah shed its reputation for restrictive alcohol laws and draw more gastronomic tourism.
- Brooks Kirchheimer, the Utah restaurateur behind hot spots like Urban Hill and Hearth & Hill, called the launch of the Southwest guide a "major milestone" that will shine light on the state's culinary talent.
What's next: Restaurants that made the cut will be revealed at a ceremony next year, though the exact date has not been announced.
You tell us: What Utah restaurants deserve to be included?