What are Michelin stars?

The dream of earning Michelin stars inspires countless restaurateurs and chefs around the world—and it’s easy to see why. This is one of the most prestigious accolades in the industry. Establishments boasting even a single star begin to attract a much broader and wealthier clientele, all seeking extraordinary culinary experiences. What are Michelin stars? What are the criteria for receiving them, and which restaurants can claim this distinction? If you’re curious about these questions, keep reading—you’ll find the answers in the article below.

What are Michelin stars and what is their history?

If you associate the Michelin brand with the automotive industry, you’re not wrong—tire manufacturing is its foundation, and drivers were the very first readers of the Michelin Guide. The guide was created to provide drivers with practical, useful information. That’s why the first editions included maps, addresses of hotels, car repair shops, and restaurants. At the time, no one could have predicted that the Michelin Guides would have such a profound impact on the restaurant industry. That’s why today, people looking for ideas for a 30th birthday gift or an anniversary celebration often choose to dine out to mark the occasion. Many of them specifically opt for restaurants with Michelin stars.

Michelin star system

Although Michelin stars were only first awarded to restaurants in the 1920s for their exceptional quality of cuisine, this distinction is still given today. Restaurants can earn between 1 and 3 stars, depending on the impression they make on Michelin inspectors.

• 1 Michelin star – is awarded to very good restaurants in their category. Establishments with one star serve excellent dishes prepared with top-quality ingredients.
• 2 Michelin stars – are awarded to exceptional establishments where the dishes reflect the chef’s personality, sophistication, and finesse.
• 3 Michelin stars – this is the highest possible distinction in the Michelin star system. As such, it is awarded exclusively to establishments serving dishes that can truly be called works of culinary art.

Without a doubt, dining at a restaurant with 1, 2, or 3 Michelin stars is a unique experience that can be treated as a special gift. If you’re looking for a gift idea for a man who already has everything, this could be the perfect choice!

Michelin star awarding criteria

The exact criteria for awarding these distinctions remain shrouded in mystery. The identities of Michelin inspectors are also kept secret—often, they are individuals with years of experience in the culinary industry. As a result, the official restaurant evaluation is based on the following criteria:

• The quality of ingredients used and dishes served – Michelin stars are awarded only to restaurants that use the finest fresh products. These are often premium items, such as the most expensive caviar or fresh seafood, but more important than their price is their actual quality.
• A harmony of flavors – the menu must impress on every level.
• Masterful techniques of preparing and serving dishes – the dishes served should be exceptionally prepared and presented just as impressively.
• The chef’s personality should be reflected in the dishes served at the restaurant.
• Consistency across all elements that make up the experience during a visit to the venue— aspects such as décor, the quality and price of the dishes served, and even service standards must all be in harmony.

It’s worth noting that Michelin stars aren’t awarded exclusively to the most expensive restaurants serving the world’s most expensive champagne, but also to bistros—outstanding dishes don’t always have to be the most costly ones.

Who has Michelin stars in Poland?

The first Michelin star in the world was awarded back in 1926, while the first star in Poland was given in 2013 to Atelier Amaro in Warsaw. Since then, the Polish culinary scene has evolved significantly, with more restaurants earning Michelin stars. Some of these establishments serve sophisticated dishes, while others are renowned for their local flavors. If you want to explore new trends, such as golden food, fusion cuisine, or molecular gastronomy, start by checking out the menus of restaurants featured in the latest edition of the Michelin Guide.

Which restaurants in Poland have a Michelin star?

In 2024, the following five establishments in Poland were awarded one Michelin star:

• Arco by Paco Pérez – Gdańsk
• Giewont – Kościelisko
• Muga – Poznań
• NUTA – Warsaw
• Rozbrat 20- Warsaw

Since Michelin stars are not awarded indefinitely, individual restaurants that have received them may gain more stars over time or lose them.

See also: 5 most luxurious places in the Tricity.

How many restaurants in Poland have 2 Michelin stars?

Currently, only one restaurant in Poland boasts two Michelin stars – Bottiglieria 1881 in Kraków. So if you’re looking for an original idea for a gift for a cooking enthusiast, a visit to such a place could be an extraordinary experience.

Other Michelin distinctions and recommendations for restaurants in Poland

Finally, an important note: Michelin stars are not the only distinctions awarded to restaurants. Other prestigious honors for dining establishments include Bib Gourmand, Green Stars, and Michelin Recommendations. In summary: in Poland, many venues have received these distinctions. You’ll find a variety of cuisines, beverages, and exceptional drinks there—for example, alcohol-free whisky, a selection of refined wines, and spirits from around the world.

Bib Gourmand-awarded restaurants in Poland:

• Luneta & Lorneta Bistro Club – Ciekocinko
• Hewelke – Gdańsk
• Treinta y Très – Gdańsk
• Folga – Kraków
• MOLÁM – Kraków
• Fromażeria – Poznań
• SPOT. – Poznań
• TU.REStAURANT – Poznań
• 1911 Restaurant – Sopot
• Vinissimo – Sopot
• alewino – Warsaw
• Ceviche Bar – Warsaw
• Kieliszki na Próżnej – Warsaw
• Koneser Grill – Warsaw
• contact – Warsaw
• Le Braci – Warsaw

Michelin-Recommended Restaurants in Poland:

• Eliksir – Gdańsk
• Fino – Gdańsk
• Mercato – Gdańsk
• Niesztuka – Gdańsk
• Piwna47 – Gdańsk
• Ritz – Gdańsk
• True – Gdańsk
• Tygle – Gdańsk
• Butchery & Wine – Gdynia
• Oberża 86 – Gdynia
• Albertina – Kraków
• Amarylis – Kraków
• Artesse – Kraków
• Copernicus – Kraków
• Farina – Kraków
• Filipa 18 – Kraków
• Fiorentina – Kraków
• Hana Sushi – Kraków
• Karakter – Kraków
• Kogel Mogel – Kraków
• Kropka. – Kraków
• Mazi – Kraków
• Nami Beef and Reef – Krakow
• NOTA_RESTO by Tomasz Leśniak – Krakow
• Pod Nosem – Krakow
• Pod Różą – Krakow
• Szara – Kraków
• ZaKładka – Kraków
• Zazie – Kraków
• 62 Bar & Restaurant – Poznań
• A nóż widelec – Poznań
• Cucina – Poznań
• Delicja – Poznań
• Marino Bistrot – Poznań
• NOOKS – Poznań
• Papavero – Poznań
• PASODOBRE – Poznań
• Port Sołacz – Poznań
• The Time – Poznań
• Zen On – Poznań
• Café Xander – Sopot
• Fisherman – Sopot
• L’Entre Villes – Sopot
• No Stars – Warsaw
• Butchery & Wine – Warsaw
• Dilettanti – Warsaw
• elixir by Dom Wódki – Warsaw
• Epoka – Warsaw
• Europejski Grill – Warsaw
• hub.praga – Warsaw
• Muzealna – Warsaw
• Nolita – Warsaw
• Noriko Omakase – Warsaw
• The Farm – Warsaw
• Tuna – Warsaw

Michelin Green Star establishments:

• Eliksir – Gdańsk

As you can see, on Poland’s culinary map of Michelin distinctions, recommendations, and stars, the larger cities clearly stand out: Kraków, Warsaw, Gdynia, Poznań, and Gdańsk. If you usually visit exclusive restaurants in the capital, perhaps it’s time to explore other towns and venues from the list as well.

Is it worth visiting Michelin-starred restaurants?

You might still be asking yourself this question, and if you’re someone who appreciates refined flavors and exceptional service, there’s really only one answer: yes! There’s no doubt that dining at restaurants awarded Michelin stars or other distinctions is a true feast for the senses. It’s also a wonderful opportunity to share the experience with loved ones or… treat them to a visit to such a venue. For what occasion? It could be a wedding gift instead of flowers or a present for an anniversary. In reality, any excuse is good enough to visit an elegant restaurant in great company, and Michelin-recognized venues guarantee both exquisite taste and excellent service.