A rumor that has swirled in Boston food circles for weeks is being reported by The Boston Business Journal, quoting unnamed sources that the Michelin Guide is coming to Boston. Michelin did not comment for this story.
The 2025 inclusion would mark a turning point for the city’s dining scene. The guide, whose well-known rating system bestows 1, 2, or 3 stars, is based in France. It has a presence in major US cities such as Chicago, New York, and San Francisco.
“I think it’s exciting. It shows how serious the Boston dining scene is being taken not just nationally, but internationally as well,” Jen Ziskin from Brookline’s La Morra told the Globe.
“As someone who’s been cooking in Boston kitchens for a long time, I’m glad to see the Michelin Guide finally paying attention to our city. There’s a lot of real talent here — chefs doing creative, exciting work day in and day out. This kind of recognition gives credit where it’s earned, not just where it’s connected,” said Dan Bazzinotti, whose resume includes Eataly Boston and the Blue Ribbon collection of restaurants.
James Beard award-winning chef Jamie Bissonnette (Boston’s Somaek, Temple Records, and Zurito) had a nuanced take.
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“One hand, it would be rad for those that deserve it. Other hand, it could add unneeded competition in a time where I think camaraderie is paramount,” he said. “I also think that if some great spots do not receive a star, it could hurt them financially, and no one deserves that in this economy.”
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Michelin continues to expand with regional editions, and the speculation about a Boston nod has buzzed for a while as the guide continued to grow. The Globe reported last month that Michelin will also now include Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee, while The New York Times reported in 2023 that Denver’s tourism board had paid to have their city included in a guide.
“I think that it’s challenging anytime there’s an award system that is pay-to-play. On the other hand, I think that being included is positive in that it shines light on all of the amazing chefs and restaurants who are contributing to making Boston a vibrant food scene. In addition, it’s wonderful for travel and tourism,” said Karen Akunowicz, the James Beard award-winning chef from South Boston’s Bar Volpe and Fox & the Knife.
Michelin was founded in 1889 as a tire company and originally issued the guide to encourage motorists to develop trips (boosting tire purchases in the process). Today, the guide uses anonymous inspectors to scout restaurants as part of the review process.
Kara Baskin can be reached at kara.baskin@globe.com. Follow her @kcbaskin.