The MICHELIN Guide Returns to Las Vegas
For years, the Las Vegas culinary scene has been an "open secret"—a world-class dining destination operating without the formal recognition of the world’s most prestigious rating system. But the wait is officially over. In a landmark announcement, the MICHELIN Guide has confirmed its return to the Silver State, launching a new Southwest Editionthat will feature Las Vegas alongside Arizona, New Mexico, and Utah.
The last time Michelin published a dedicated Las Vegas guide was in 2009. At the time, the city was still finding its footing as a gastronomic powerhouse. When the guide was suspended following the global recession, it left 17 local restaurants holding stars that technically "expired" in print, though their prestige never faded.
Now, as we move through 2026, the inspectors are already back in the field. This return isn’t just about nostalgia; it’s a recognition of how much the city has evolved beyond the high-end French dining rooms of the early 2000s.
What’s New in the 2026 Selection?
The culinary landscape of Las Vegas in 2026 is vastly different from 2009. While the "Strip" still boasts heavy hitters like Joël Robuchon and Guy Savoy, the city's real growth has been in its diverse neighborhoods and independent ventures.
Beyond the Strip: Areas like Chinatown (Spring Mountain Road) and the Arts District have become hotbeds for innovation. Inspectors are expected to look closely at these local favorites for the Bib Gourmand category—awards given to restaurants offering high-quality food at a great value.
A Regional Approach: By grouping Nevada with Arizona, New Mexico, and Utah, the new Southwest Guide highlights the unique "desert terroir" and the cross-pollination of flavors across the region.
Sustainability: Expect to see the Green Star make its Las Vegas debut, honoring restaurants that lead the way in sustainable gastronomy—a challenging but vital feat in the Mojave Desert.
Why It Matters
For chefs and restaurateurs, the return of the Guide is the ultimate validation. It shifts the narrative from Las Vegas being a "playground for tourists" to a "serious destination for gourmands." For travelers, it provides a trusted, anonymous roadmap to the city’s best eats, from the neon-lit Strip to the hidden corners of the valley.
The official 2026 MICHELIN Guide Southwest Ceremony is expected to take place later this year, where the first new stars in over a decade will finally be revealed.
