Michelin Honors Denver’s Finest Restaurants with New Awards and Recognition

Thursday, September 12, 2024

Yesterday, MICHELIN honored 28 Denver restaurants in the second edition of the MICHELIN Guide Colorado, showcasing the city’s growing culinary prestige. This prestigious recognition celebrates a variety of restaurants, each representing exceptional culinary craftsmanship.

Several familiar favorites were recognized again, but there were also exciting newcomers. Alma Fonda Fina earned its first MICHELIN Star, while MAKfam was awarded a Bib Gourmand. Newly Recommended restaurants include Kawa Ni and Brasserie Brixton. Additionally, two special awards were presented: Allison Anderson of Beckon received the Michelin Outstanding Service Award, and Johnny Curiel of Alma Fonda Fina was named Michelin’s Young Chef/Culinary Professional Award recipient.

“Congratulations to Denver’s MICHELIN Guide-recognized restaurants including newly selected restaurants Alma Fonda Fina, MAKfam, Kawa Ni and Brasserie Brixton,” said Richard W. Scharf, president and CEO of VISIT DENVER, one of the organizations responsible for bringing the program to Colorado. “Michelin’s awards further exemplify the city’s long-standing dedication to unique flavors from fresh, local ingredients and high-quality service. We know dining is one of the top considerations for visitors when choosing a destination, and we are proud to bring this program to Denver to offer both visitor and residents such a varied and celebrated group of restaurants.”

The MICHELIN Guide evaluates restaurants based on several factors. Stars are awarded according to five key criteria: product quality, technical mastery, flavor balance, the chef’s unique expression in their dishes, and overall consistency. Bib Gourmand restaurants offer high-quality dining experiences at accessible prices. The Green Star is reserved for restaurants excelling in sustainable gastronomy, and Recommended restaurants are recognized for delivering above-average quality with fresh ingredients.

Here are Denver’s celebrated restaurants in each category:

One MICHELIN Star:

• Alma Fonda Fina (NEW!)
• Beckon
• Brutø
• The Wolf’s Tailor

MICHELIN Green Star:

• Brutø
• The Wolf’s Tailor

Bib Gourmand:

• Ash’Kara
• The Ginger Pig
• Glo Noodle House
• Hop Alley
• La Diabla Pozole y Mezcal
• MAKfam (NEW!)
• Mister Oso
• Tavernetta

2024 Recommended Restaurants:

• A5 Steakhouse
• Barolo Grill
• Brasserie Brixton (NEW!)
• Dio Mio
• Fruition
• Guard and Grace
• Hey Kiddo
• Kawa Ni (NEW!)
• Marco’s Coal Fired
• Mercantile Dining and Provision
• Noisette
• Olivia
• Q House
• Safta
• Smok
• Temaki Den

MICHELIN Special Awards:

• Michelin Outstanding Service Award: Allison Anderson, Beckon
• Michelin Young Chef/Culinary Professional Award: Johnny Curiel, Alma Fonda Fina

The MICHELIN Guide is a globally respected resource for discerning travelers seeking outstanding dining experiences. It was originally created in France to help motorists by recommending dining and lodging options, ultimately encouraging travel and boosting tire sales. Over time, it evolved into a trusted authority in the culinary world, now offering recommendations in over 40 destinations globally.

Denver joins other Colorado destinations, including Boulder, Aspen, Snowmass Village, Vail, and Beaver Creek, as part of the Colorado MICHELIN Guide, the eighth MICHELIN Guide destination in North America, in partnership with the Colorado Tourism Office.

• Luxury Meets Convenience with Eddie Limo’s Winter Car Service from Denver to Beaver Creek

• Explore 10 affordable U.S. cities for its Christmas Markets

• Illinois, Park City, Clearwater Beach, and Beyond Which Exciting Travel Destinations Are Perfect for Discovering New Adventures in March 2025 for an Unforgettable Getaway Experience?

• Ultimate Comfort and Convenience Await You at the Newly Revamped DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Denver

• Discover JanSport Venture Pack System: A New Standard in Travel Solutions for Efficient Packing and Adventuring