The city’s culinary scene earns unprecedented recognition as cutting-edge establishments join the pantheon of world-class dining
Six New Stars Shine in New York’s Evolving Culinary Landscape
New York City continues to solidify its position as America’s gastronomic epicenter as the 2025 Michelin Guide unveiled six newly starred establishments, marking a significant expansion of the city’s elite dining roster. The recognition underscores the city’s commitment to culinary innovation and excellence, even as affordability challenges reshape the urban dining experience.
Sushi Sho’s Ascent to Three Stars
In the most prestigious development, Sushi Sho earned promotion to three-star status, becoming the latest establishment to achieve Michelin’s highest honor. Located in the shadow of the New York Public Library’s iconic building, the restaurant features an architectural marvel–a spacious eight-seat Hinoki counter flanked by towering ice boxes with intricately carved wood doors. The Michelin inspectors praised Sushi Sho for its breadth, pace, and persistence of excellence, noting that the experience impresses even the most seasoned sushi enthusiasts.
Korean and Contemporary Cuisine Gain Ground
Two-star promotion came to Joo Ok, a Koreatown establishment that blends minimalist design with Manhattan skyline views. Chef Chang-ho Shin’s contemporary Korean tasting menu impressed inspectors with its fusion of traditional and modern culinary sensibilities. Meanwhile, Bridges in Chinatown achieved one-star status under the direction of Chef Sam Lawrence. The restaurant’s bistro aesthetic contrasts with an ambitious kitchen demonstrating noteworthy drive and originality.
Innovation Continues with Fresh Entries
Among the newly starred one-star establishments, Huso returned as a reincarnated concept, maintaining its signature caviar shop entrance while expanding into refined dining. The TriBeCa location showcases flowing white drapes, generous table spacing, and a tasting menu that deploys caviar judiciously alongside meticulously calibrated sauces. Muku and Yamada round out this year’s expansion, with Muku distinguishing itself as an intimate counter-service experience featuring kaiseki-inspired cuisine.
What This Means for New York’s Food Culture
The expansion of Michelin-starred establishments reflects broader trends in New York’s evolving food landscape. As Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani has emphasized throughout his campaign, affordable access to quality food remains central to the city’s future. The culinary achievements documented in the 2025 Michelin Guide represent thousands of hours of refinement, innovation, and dedication by chefs and their teams. For comprehensive information on all Michelin-starred establishments and evaluation criteria, visit guide.michelin.com.
