Cleveland Chefs Brace for Michelin Guide’s Arrival

As the Michelin Guide makes its way to the city, bringing global attention, and pressure, to local kitchens for the first time, Cleveland chefs are preparing for a new level of scrutiny.

Set to debut in 2027, the multi-city Great Lakes edition will mark the first time the guide formally evaluates restaurants across the region, including Detroit, Indianapolis, Milwaukee, Minneapolis and Pittsburgh, signaling a shift for Cleveland from regional recognition to global visibility.

The Michelin Guide, considered the world’s most influential restaurant rating system, evaluates restaurants through anonymous inspectors and awards one-, two- or three-star distinctions based on quality, technique and consistency. It also recognizes Bib Gourmand honorees for exceptional food at a more accessible price point, as well as Green Stars for sustainability.

Chef Dante Boccuzzi, who earned a Michelin star in 2006 as executive chef of Aureole in New York City, understands both the opportunity and the pressure that comes with that stage. Since returning to Ohio, he has opened a slate of restaurants including Dante in Tremont, Ginko, Goma and more.

READ MORE: Will Cleveland Get a Michelin Star?

“Honestly, even just this announcement stirs up a lot of nerves and anxiety,” Boccuzzi says. “It’s such a prestigious accomplishment. With a newspaper or magazine, you usually know who the critic is, what they look like and how to take care of them. But with the Michelin Guide, you never know who’s coming in, when they’re coming in or how often. You have to be at your best all the time. It’s exciting, but it definitely brings a lot of nerves and anxiety.”

Though surprised by the announcement, Boccuzzi sees the expansion as a natural next step for a region that has steadily raised its culinary profile.

“Food culture is growing across the country, and everyone is stepping up their game and doing things differently,” he says. “Now it’s time for us to fine-tune everything, make sure we’re doing things the right way and always ask what we can do better. We have to challenge ourselves and treat every guest like they’re a Michelin Guide reviewer, give everyone the same level of care. It’s time to turn up the volume and really refine what we do.”

RELATED: Cleveland to Join Michelin Guide in 2027 as Part of New Great Lakes Edition

Long considered one of the world’s most influential restaurant rating systems, the Michelin Guide shapes where people travel to eat, making its arrival in Cleveland a significant moment for the local dining scene.

“The Michelin Guide is on another level,” Boccuzzi says. “It’s global. If you look at three-star restaurants around the world, those are the absolute best. So just to be in that company is a huge accomplishment. And honestly, it’s pretty cool that it’s finally here in Cleveland.”

Jeremy Umansky, co-owner of Larder Delicatessen & Bakery and a multiple James Beard Foundation nominee, has earned national recognition for his fermentation-driven take on modern Jewish deli cuisine, helping bring broader attention to Cleveland’s evolving dining scene.

“We have a strong sense of civic pride in what we do as chefs and the food we put out,” Umansky says. “Seeing Michelin recognize Cleveland feels like validation, and I think it further cements Cleveland as the state’s top dining destination.” 

He also expects the designation to drive increased travel within the region itself for day trips or overnights in a localized setting. 

The Michelin Guide’s arrival is expected to boost tourism across the Great Lakes. Cities like Detroit, Pittsburgh and Columbus may become more appealing for quick, food-focused trips, while Cleveland, in turn, positions itself as a stronger destination within that growing, interconnected dining circuit.

“And when you look at how people travel, so many use Michelin listings and recommendations to decide where to eat, whether it’s for business or pleasure,” Umansky says. “Having Cleveland show up more in those searches is only going to elevate our profile and introduce us to a much wider audience.”

For more updates about Cleveland, sign up for our Cleveland Magazine Daily newsletter, delivered to your inbox six times a week.

Cleveland Magazine is also available in print, featuring immersive stories, helpful guides and beautiful photography and design.