Our nation boasts a diverse and vibrant culinary landscape that caters across the spectrum to a wide array of tastes, budgets, and cuisines. But of the country’s nearly 5,000 restaurants that are considered “fine dining,” a few stand firmly above the rest as the best restaurants in America. Thus, we present our list of the ten most consistently exceptional places to eat in the nation, each renowned for their excellence, ingenuity, and presentation. Many boast three Michelin stars; each delivers an unparalleled and meticulously curated epicurean experience.
We should note that in addition to universal acclaim, sustained excellence and longevity were of foremost importance when crafting this list. Therefore, newer establishments will need to wait to see if they endure the test of time. Without further ado (and in no particular order), we give you our list of the ten best restaurants in the US in 2023.
The Inn at Little Washington
Washington, VA
Nestled in the heart of Virginia’s picturesque Shenandoah Valley, The Inn at Little Washington stands as a pinnacle of culinary excellence. Since its inception in 1978 by Chef Patrick O’Connell and Reinhardt Lynch, this iconic restaurant has continuously garnered acclaim, including three Michelin stars, cementing its status as a world-class dining destination. The Inn offers a meticulously crafted dining experience, where every detail, from the opulent decor of its various dining rooms to the impeccable service, reflects a commitment to creating a whimsical and unforgettable gastronomic journey. Chef Patrick O’Connell’s innovative American cuisine takes center stage, often featuring locally sourced ingredients to create dishes that seamlessly blend creativity and sophistication while paying homage to traditional flavors.
The Inn’s dedication to providing a meal and an immersive and enchanting escapade is evident in every aspect of its operation. The restaurant’s emphasis on exceptional service extends beyond the dining room, offering luxurious and one-of-a-kind accommodations for those seeking to prolong their experience in the picturesque village of Washington, Virginia. The Inn at Little Washington transcends the boundaries of traditional fine dining by creating a magical haven where culinary artistry, architectural grandeur, and warm hospitality converge, inviting guests to partake in an extraordinary voyage of the senses that lingers in memory long after the last bite, making a perennial member of our list.
Benu
San Francisco, CA
Since its opening in 2010, Benu has garnered a reputation as a pinnacle of modern Asian-inspired cuisine in the country. Holding three Michelin stars and consistently making appearances on lists of top restaurants, Benu stands as a testament to Chef Corey Lee’s innovative approach to gastronomy. Situated in a sleek and sophisticated space, the restaurant offers an extraordinary tasting menu that fuses traditional Asian flavors with contemporary techniques, resulting in a dining experience that is as thought-provoking as it is delicious.
The ambiance at Benu is one of refined elegance, with a minimalist design that allows the dishes to take center stage. Chef Lee’s commitment to culinary excellence is showcased in his meticulous attention to detail and the artful presentation of each dish. The tasting menu often features a blend of ingredients that celebrate both Asian heritage and the bounties of the California landscape. Diners are taken on a journey through a series of impeccably crafted courses that showcase a symphony of flavors, textures, and techniques. Benu’s unique approach to modern gastronomy, combined with its commitment to honoring culinary traditions, has earned it a well-deserved reputation as a destination that offers an exceptional exploration of Asian-inspired cuisine in the heart of San Francisco.
Eleven Madison Park
New York, NY
An esteemed culinary gem nestled in the heart of the Flatiron District, Eleven Madison Park has solidified its reputation as one of the world’s most celebrated dining destinations (one with an easy-to-remember address). For decades, Eleven Madison Park (or “EMP” as its known) has established itself as an epitome of gastronomic innovation and excellence with a legacy of three Michelin stars and a consistent presence on prestigious lists of top restaurants. Under the visionary leadership of Chef Daniel Humm, the restaurant offers an extraordinary tasting menu that weaves together artistry, technique, and a deep appreciation for locally sourced ingredients, resulting in a symphony of flavors that captivate the senses.
The restaurant’s elegant Art Deco setting exudes a refined grandeur that befits its historic location within the iconic MetLife Building. The dining room’s soaring ceilings, plush upholstery, and elegant table settings provide a backdrop that effortlessly complements the culinary masterpieces that grace each plate. Beyond the impeccable service and luxurious décor, Eleven Madison Park is known for its creative and seasonally inspired dishes. The menu often showcases an array of innovative offerings, skillfully curated to highlight the best of each season. This commitment to culinary exploration, combined with the restaurant’s exceptional attention to detail, ensures that every visit to Eleven Madison Park is an unparalleled journey through taste, texture, and artistry, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking an elevated dining experience in the heart of New York City.
Addison
Del Mar, CA
An exquisite culinary gem located in beautiful Del Mar, California (just north of San Diego), Addison is renowned for its unparalleled fine dining experience. Situated within the Fairmont Grand Del Mar resort, this upscale restaurant offers a harmonious blend of elegant ambiance and meticulously crafted cuisine. Addison holds the prestigious distinction of being San Diego County’s only Michelin-starred restaurant, a testament to its commitment to culinary excellence. The restaurant’s interior exudes opulence, featuring ornate chandeliers, plush furnishings, and a warm color palette that creates an inviting and sophisticated atmosphere. The dining room’s layout ensures an intimate setting, perfect for romantic dinners and special occasions.
Led by acclaimed Chef William Bradley, Addison’s menu is a symphony of seasonal and locally sourced ingredients, resulting in dishes that are not only visually stunning but also a delight for the palate. Chef Bradley’s artistic approach to contemporary French cuisine is evident in every dish, with meticulous attention to flavors, textures, and presentation. Guests can indulge in multi-course tasting menus that showcase the chef’s innovative culinary prowess, with dishes like foie gras with truffle accents, delicate seafood creations, and delectable desserts that leave a lasting impression. The restaurant also boasts an impressive wine list curated to complement the exquisite dishes, offering an extensive selection of both Old World and New World wines. Addison stands as a pinnacle of gastronomic achievement for those seeking a truly unparalleled dining experience on the Southern California coast.
Joël Robuchon
Las Vegas, NV
Joël Robuchon, An illustrious culinary experience located inside the MGM Grand Las Vegas Resort, encapsulates the epitome of fine dining and gastronomic artistry. Named after the iconic eponymous French chef, this restaurant has garnered international acclaim and accolades, including multiple Michelin stars. Renowned for its unparalleled French cuisine, the restaurant presents a symphony of flavors, textures, and culinary innovation that pay homage to Chef Robuchon’s legacy of excellence and in a city that has seen a fervent boom of fine dining in the past decade, stands above the rest.
Upon entering Joël Robuchon, guests are transported into a world of opulence and elegance. The restaurant’s luxurious and intimate ambiance exudes sophistication, with plush furnishings and an atmosphere that sets the stage for an exceptional dining experience. The tasting menus, meticulously curated under the guidance of Executive Chef Christophe De Lellis, showcase a blend of traditional French techniques and contemporary interpretations, resulting in dishes that are both visually stunning and extraordinarily flavorful. From intricate amuse-bouches to exquisitely crafted desserts, each course at Joël Robuchon is a masterpiece that reflects the restaurant’s commitment to culinary precision. For those seeking an unforgettable journey into the world of haute cuisine in Las Vegas, Joël Robuchon stands as a beacon of excellence, offering a dining encounter that harmoniously marries tradition and innovation.
Le Bernardin
New York, NY
Le Bernardin, an iconic culinary institution nestled in the heart of New York City, stands as a testament to refined seafood dining at its finest. Renowned for its unwavering commitment to excellence, the restaurant has held three Michelin stars for years, received more James Beard Awards than any other restaurant in New York City, and consistently ranked among the world’s best restaurants. Helmed by Chef Eric Ripert, Le Bernardin presents a symphony of flavors that celebrate the ocean’s bounty while showcasing the culinary expertise defining this legendary establishment.
Upon entering Le Bernardin, guests are enveloped in an ambiance of timeless elegance and sophistication. The restaurant’s minimalist yet luxurious design sets the stage for an unparalleled dining experience. The focus here is on allowing the ingredients to shine, as evidenced by the artful presentation of dishes that evoke both visual and gustatory delight. From delicate crudos to meticulously composed seafood creations, each plate is a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that mirror the restaurant’s commitment to perfection. Le Bernardin offers a true celebration of seafood, where passion and innovation merge to create an unforgettable journey for the palate, making it a must-visit destination for culinary enthusiasts seeking an exceptional dining encounter in the heart of New York City.
Alinea
Chicago, IL
Alinea, a groundbreaking culinary haven located in the vibrant city of Chicago, stands as a testament to avant-garde dining at its zenith. Revered as one of the world’s most innovative and influential restaurants, Alinea has consistently held three Michelin stars, and its name is synonymous with gastronomic exploration. Helmed by Chef Grant Achatz (the man at the forefront of molecular gastronomy in the States), the restaurant offers an unparalleled experience that transcends traditional notions of dining. Through its meticulously orchestrated tasting menus, Alinea showcases an exceptional blend of culinary artistry, science, and technology, resulting in dishes that challenge the boundaries of flavor, texture, and presentation.
Entering Alinea is akin to stepping into a world of culinary wonder. The restaurant’s sleek and modern interior is complemented by an atmosphere of sophistication and anticipation. Each meticulously designed dish not only tantalizes the palate but also engages all the senses, often involving theatrical elements that are as visually captivating as they are delicious. The multi-sensory dining journey takes guests through a series of thought-provoking and innovative creations that blur the line between food and art. Alinea’s commitment to pushing the envelope of culinary creativity has solidified its position as a revered destination for epicurean adventurers seeking an unforgettable exploration of flavors and sensations in the heart of Chicago.
Café Monarch
Scottsdale, AZ
Nestled in charming Old Town Scottsdale, Arizona, Café Monarch is a culinary haven that offers an exquisite and intimate fine dining experience. Named the “Most Romantic Restaurant in America” by Yelp in 2018 and renowned for its approachable elegance and unparalleled service, this family-owned and operated gem has become a go-to destination for special celebrations and possesses a warm, unpretentious, and inviting atmosphere atypical of restaurants of its caliber. With a focus on contemporary American cuisine, Café Monarch offers a seasonal and ever-evolving tasting menu that showcases the freshest locally sourced ingredients, resulting in dishes that are as visually captivating as they are delectable.
The restaurant’s lush garden patio (complete with flowing fountains and a tranquil ambiance) and grand dining room (with its Old World aesthetic and abundant marble and stone) each create an enchanting atmosphere that complements the dining experience. Guests are treated to a personalized and attentive service, creating an atmosphere of warmth and exclusivity. The tasting menu, crafted with an artistic flair by Executive Chef Ben Wald, takes diners on a culinary journey through meticulously crafted dishes that balance flavors and textures with finesse. Whether guests opt for the four or eight-course experience (or their five and ten-course ultra-premium sister concept, Reserve), each bite is a testament to the Lewkowicz family’s dedication to culinary excellence. Café Monarch stands as a testament to the art of fine dining, offering a haven for those seeking an intimate and unforgettable gastronomic adventure in the heart of the Southwest.
Providence
Los Angeles, CA
Located on Melrose in Hollywood, Providence has consistently earned its place as a pinnacle of Los Angeles’s culinary scene. Revered for its commitment to innovative seafood cuisine, Providence has garnered a multitude of accolades and Michelin stars, solidifying its reputation as a true gastronomic destination. Helmed by Chef Michael Cimarusti, Providence emphasizes sustainably sourced seafood, resulting in dishes that showcase both creativity and reverence for the ocean’s bounty. “We use only wild-caught, sustainable products, mostly from American waters, and look to highlight their finest qualities,” Cimarusti says
The restaurant’s refined and elegant ambiance perfectly complements its exceptional cuisine. With its muted color palette, sleek lines, and an atmosphere of understated luxury, Providence offers a dining experience that is both sophisticated and inviting. The tasting menus, thoughtfully curated to reflect seasonal ingredients and Chef Cimarusti’s culinary vision, provide an exploration of flavors and textures that captivate the senses. From meticulously crafted crudo to intricate seafood compositions, each plate at Providence is a work of art that celebrates the treasures of the sea. For those seeking an unparalleled epicurean journey in LA, Providence stands as a beacon of culinary excellence, offering an unforgettable experience that marries meticulous craftsmanship with the ocean’s most exquisite offerings.
Masa
New York, NY
Regarded as perhaps the premier omakase experience in the country, Masa embodies both the pinnacle of sushi craftsmanship and luxury dining. Situated in the Time Warner Center, this revered restaurant is the brainchild of Chef Masa Takayama, celebrated for his mastery of Edomae-style sushi. Holding three Michelin stars, Masa offers an exclusive and unparalleled omakase experience that resonates with connoisseurs and aficionados alike, redefining the essence of Japanese fine dining in the city.
The dining journey at Masa is a meticulously choreographed affair, one where guests embark on a culinary odyssey of the senses. The minimalist and serene ambiance provides an intimate backdrop to the sushi counter, where Chef Masa’s deft hands orchestrate each course. The omakase menu is a personalized affair, where the freshest seasonal ingredients are transformed into edible works of art. Sourced globally and prepared with a focus on purity and precision, each piece of sushi showcases the chef’s dedication to perfection. Masa’s commitment to crafting an authentic and immersive experience has earned it a reputation as one of the world’s most sought-after culinary establishments, offering a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to savor sushi at its most exquisite and refined form.