Michelin Unveils New Additions to California Guide with Three L.A. Restaurants Making the Cut

Introduction:

Michelin, the prestigious culinary authority, has created a buzz with the recent announcement of seven new additions to its California guide, with three noteworthy establishments located in Los Angeles. As anticipation builds for the 2024 Michelin Guide release, the spotlight is on these culinary gems that might earn the coveted Michelin stars.

The Michelin Star Prestige:

The Michelin Guide, renowned for its star ratings, is considered a pinnacle achievement in the service industry. The stars signify various levels of culinary excellence – one star for a very good restaurant, two stars for excellent cuisine worth a detour, and the ultimate three stars for exceptional cuisine worth a special journey. The anticipation surrounds whether these teased additions will secure a star or fall into other categories such as the value-focused Bib Gourmand.

Hibi's Evolution in Koreatown:

Hibi, nestled in a Koreatown strip mall, has experienced a remarkable transformation since its summer opening. Originally conceived as a casual Japanese-focused eatery, Hibi caught Michelin's attention as it shifted gears to firmly establish itself in the fine dining scene. Owner Sol Lee, reflecting on the journey, emphasizes the importance of hard work and commitment. With Chef Daniel Kim at the helm, Hibi now boasts a modern Japanese and Korean menu, featuring intricate dishes like bluefin with winter truffle vinaigrette. The restaurant plans to transition to a tasting menu format in early 2024.

Baroo's Reincarnation in the Arts District:

Baroo, a modern Korean restaurant in the Arts District, marks its presence in the Michelin guide as the reincarnation of chef Kwang Uh’s earlier establishment. Recently recognized as an L.A. Times 101 List awardee, Baroo impresses with its sleek interior and exclusive tasting menu format. Michelin highlights the restaurant's offerings, including a "nicely seared Hokkaido scallop in a pool of watercress sauce with cubed seaweed jelly and puffed rice."

Olivia: A Vegetarian Haven in Koreatown:

Situated in Koreatown, Olivia, a restaurant and wine bar, stands out for its globally inspired vegetarian menu. Chef Mario Alberto takes pride in putting produce at the forefront, creating dishes that charm diners in the intimate dining room adorned with marble tables, candles, and flowers. Notable menu items include pizzas celebrated by L.A. Times critic Bill Addison and creatively influenced dishes like fried squash blossoms with macadamia ricotta.

Expanding Beyond Los Angeles:

The Michelin guide's influence extends beyond the city limits, with new additions like Paradisaea in La Jolla, and Dalida, Kiln, and Movida in San Francisco and San Diego, respectively.

Recognition and Celebration:

The 2023 California guide, unveiled in July, featured 614 restaurants, with 87 earning stars, including a historic first-ever star for Long Beach. Additionally, the Bib Gourmand designation was bestowed upon noteworthy establishments, underscoring the diversity and richness of California's culinary landscape.

Awaiting the 2024 Michelin California Guide:

As the culinary world eagerly awaits the 2024 Michelin Guide for California, the reveal date and location remain undisclosed. For now, these newly recognized or notable establishments savor the acknowledgment, paving the way for potential Michelin stardom.

Conclusion:

Michelin's recent tease of seven new additions to its California guide, with a significant presence in Los Angeles, has set the stage for heightened anticipation in the culinary world. As the 2024 guide's release approaches, the spotlight is on these restaurants, each representing a unique culinary journey that might soon be officially celebrated with the prestigious Michelin stars.