Michelin Guide Recognizes Several Memphis Restaurants
The 2026 Michelin Guide American South awards list honors multiple Memphis dining establishments.
Updated on Oct. 22, 2026 in Food and Drink
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Memphis restaurants have earned new and retained honors in the 2026 Michelin Guide American South. While no local eateries earned Michelin Stars, multiple spots received recommended status or Bib Gourmand awards.
Why it matters
The Michelin Guide honors provide a significant industry acknowledgment for local chefs and their commitment to culinary quality and consistency.
A total of 22 restaurants earned Michelin Stars in the 2026 American South guide. Inspectors evaluate venues based on ingredient quality, flavor harmony, cooking technique mastery, and consistency.
The players
Michelin Guide
An international culinary publication that uses a star system to rate restaurants based on the quality and consistency of their cuisine.
The details
Fawn earned recommended status for the first time, while Bao Toan Kitchen & Bar was honored with a Bib Gourmand award. Additionally, Andrew Michael Italian Kitchen, Felicia Suzanne's, The Lobbyist, Petals of a Peony, and Hog & Hominy successfully retained their previous designations.
Timeline
The Michelin Guide launched in 1900.
The Bib Gourmand award was introduced in 1997.
The Michelin Guide American South ceremony was held in Nashville on Oct. 21, 2026.
Industry Dynamics
The 2026 Michelin Guide American South ceremony serves as a major benchmark for regional dining, formalizing the status of Southern culinary hubs. This recognition highlights how emerging markets like Memphis are increasingly integrated into global fine-dining evaluations.
Diners can use the updated guide to identify top-rated establishments across the city. The Bib Gourmand and recommended designations help patrons prioritize quality-focused restaurants that offer diverse culinary experiences.
The takeaway
The latest guide underscores the growing diversity and consistency of the Memphis dining landscape. Readers can support these recognized businesses to enjoy high-quality cooking that meets international standards.
Further reading
Learn more about the local culinary scene in our Memphis Food and Drink section.
More information
View the full list of honorees on the Michelin Guide website.
Live Poll
Do you prioritize dining at restaurants that have earned prestigious culinary awards?
