Houston's Michelin Star Dilemma: Where's the Beef (Well, Actually It's Probably Steak)?
Ah, the Michelin star. That coveted badge of culinary excellence, whispered in hushed tones by foodies and status-hungry influencers alike. A restaurant with a Michelin star is basically saying, "We're so fancy, even tires recommend us!"
But here's the thing, Houston: you don't have any Michelin-starred restaurants. Hold on, don't grab your cowboy boots and head down to City Hall in a protest just yet. There's a perfectly reasonable explanation (besides the fact that maybe those fancy French inspectors are afraid of a little Texas heat).
Michelin Forgot Texas Brought the Spice (Not Just on the Plate)
Michelin, the tire company turned restaurant critic (seriously, that's a whole other story), simply hasn't published a guide for Texas. So, while our neighbors in California and Florida are busy bragging about their Michelin-approved avocado toast, Houston's culinary scene is left simmering in a pot of "what-ifs."
Do We Need Michelin Stars? Hold My Sweet Tea, Y'all
Look, Houston, we all know we have a phenomenal food scene. From melt-in-your-mouth barbecue to next-level Tex-Mex, and everything in between, our city's got the flavors to make your taste buds do a two-step. Do we really need some fancy French folks to tell us what's good? Heck no!
The James Beard Award: Our Lone Star Salute to Culinary Genius
Besides, Houston isn't exactly hurting for recognition. We've got a whole cabinet full of James Beard Awards, which are basically America's way of saying, "Y'all got some mighty fine cookin' goin' on over there."
So, the next time someone asks why Houston doesn't have any Michelin stars, just give them a wink and say:
"Honey, we're too busy being delicious to worry about fancy stars. Besides, have you seen the size of our portions? A Michelin star just wouldn't do them justice."
