This Country Boasts the Most Michelin Stars. Here’s Where to Dine

Monaco continually captivates visitors with its glamorous allure, making it no surprise that its culinary landscape reflects the elegance of its famous casinos. In this small nation, spanning less than a square mile along the French Riviera, you’ll find the highest concentration of Michelin-starred restaurants in the world, offering everything from Caribbean-inspired cuisine to exquisite sushi and culinary creations by acclaimed Parisian chefs.

Even after indulging in these highly acclaimed dining establishments, Monaco has even more to offer. Emerging culinary talents from various regions are now joining the vibrant scene, often leaning towards lighter dishes while introducing innovative concepts and creative methods. Read on to uncover why Monaco is a food lover's paradise.

Dine at an array of Michelin-starred restaurants

Every year, chefs and restaurant owners eagerly anticipate the release of the Michelin Guide, as anonymous inspectors travel worldwide to evaluate restaurants based on several criteria. Monaco is home to seven Michelin-starred restaurants, collectively boasting an impressive total of 11 Michelin stars, all achieving the highest levels of culinary excellence.

Le Louis XV

Guided by the esteemed chef Alain Ducasse, Le Louis XV, a legendary culinary establishment within the renowned Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo, has stood the test of time, setting the benchmark for an outstanding dining experience. Currently, chef Emmanuel Pilon, Ducasse's devoted collaborator, upholds the restaurant’s tradition of exceptional flavors and flawless service. Their Riviera-inspired dishes highlight the region’s finest ingredients.

Blue Bay Marcel Ravin

Since its launch in 2015, Blue Bay Marcel Ravin at the Monte Carlo Bay Hotel and Resort has been expertly helmed by renowned Caribbean chef Marcel Ravin. Drawing from his West Indies heritage, he masterfully blends culinary traditions with top-notch ingredients. Now awarded two Michelin stars, the restaurant has recently been entirely revamped, featuring a nature-inspired decor, an open kitchen, and a stunning terrace with views of the Mediterranean.

La Table d’Antonio Salvatore

Originating from Basilicata in southern Italy, chef Antonio Salvatore skillfully merges traditional Italian and French influences with a contemporary flair and global flavors at this restaurant. His exquisite dishes are crafted in an intimate setting that boasts just five tables, ensuring exclusivity.

Le Grill

No trip to Monaco is complete without indulging in the culinary mastery of chefs Dominique Lory and Patrick Laine at Le Grill, a two-star Michelin restaurant celebrated for its grilled meats. Situated on the eighth floor of the Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo, it provides breathtaking sea views and an exceptional wine selection, all while prioritizing the finest local ingredients.

Les Ambassadeurs by Christophe Cussac

Les Ambassadeurs by Christophe Cussac achieved gastronomic acclaim when it earned two Michelin stars just nine months after its opening at the Hotel Métropole. Inspired by and named after the venue’s original restaurant from the 1920s, the hotel's esteemed executive chef, Cussac, infuses modern Mediterranean elements into dishes that showcase classic French flavors.

Pavyllon Monte-Carlo

Chef Yannick Alléno brings his renowned Parisian dining concept to Hôtel Hermitage at Pavyllon Monte-Carlo, offering an elegant yet relaxed culinary experience. Focusing on seasonal ingredients, fresh produce, and seafood, the restaurant features counter seating overlooking the open kitchen. For a more picturesque setting, guests can opt for a table on the sunlit terrace with stunning views of the harbor and Old Town.

Yoshi

Immerse yourself in culinary excellence at Yoshi, the only Michelin-starred Japanese restaurant on the Riviera, located within Hôtel Métropole Monte-Carlo. Under the skilled hands of Chef Takeo Yamazaki, traditional flavors are elevated as nigiri, maki, and sashimi are crafted into culinary masterpieces. The finest meats, seafood, and vegetables are prepared on the flat iron teppanyaki, complemented by an exquisite selection of rare Japanese sake, whiskies, and green teas.

Discover Michelin-recommended dining spots

While Michelin’s prestigious one- to three-star ratings attract the most attention, the guide also highlights other exceptional restaurants that are dedicated to outstanding cuisine. With that in mind, here are nine additional establishments worth visiting during your trip to Monaco.

Elsa

At Elsa in the Monte Carlo Beach Hotel, Ravin draws inspiration from the Riviera’s culinary heritage, presenting a menu that emphasizes simple yet exquisite dishes made from high-quality ingredients. The chic restaurant, featuring a beautiful terrace, perfectly complements the hotel’s luxurious 1930s vibe.

La Table d'Élise

This spacious brasserie near The Japanese Garden and the Grimaldi Forum is renowned for chef David Castoldi’s elegant yet straightforward Provençal dishes.

Beefbar

Situated along the docks of Port of Fontvieille, this 'meat bar' boasts an impressive meat showcase and beautiful Mediterranean views. While the outstanding wagyu and Black Angus beef take center stage, the menu also includes delightful shareable options like the signature croque sandwich with Beefbar sauce and Kobe beef gyozas.

Song Qi

Renowned restaurateur Riccardo Giraudi launched Monaco’s top Chinese restaurant across from the Grimaldi Forum in 2014. It remains celebrated for its tranquil atmosphere, authentic dishes, and classic dim sum.

MayaBay

Led by executive chef Christophe Dupuy, MayaBay’s team artfully fuses Japanese and Thai influences, while the attentive front-of-house staff fosters a welcoming ambiance, guiding guests on a flavorful journey. This experience is enhanced by sophisticated décor that draws from both historical and modern Asian inspirations.

Broaden your fine dining experience

Even after indulging in all the Michelin-starred restaurants in the country, Monaco offers a plethora of remarkable dining experiences that enhance its reputation as a paradise for food lovers. Each meal at these new and carefully chosen venues showcases the artistry that underpins the principality’s culinary brilliance.

Café de Paris Monte-Carlo

Recently renovated, this Monaco staple returns to its prime location at the Place du Casino. Now under the direction of chef Victor Marion, this traditional Parisian brasserie on Mediterranean soil attracts both celebrities and locals for coffee, desserts, and shared meals, making it a top destination for people-watching. Arrive early for apéro hour to snag a seat.

Amazonico Restaurant

Set to open in April, this restaurant, bar, and lounge at the Place du Casino offers a vibrant blend of Latin American and Asian flavors within a lush, Amazonian jungle atmosphere. Look forward to tropical cocktails and DJ sets from the creators Sandro Silva and Marta Seco.

Smakelijk

Savor Belgian cuisine with a Mediterranean backdrop at this Le Méridien Beach Plaza restaurant. Enjoy friendly service, unique wines, and specialties such as shrimp croquettes, Liège meatballs, and creamy mussels.

La Môme Monte-Carlo

Perched atop the Port Palace hotel, the Monaco branch of this famed Cannes restaurant offers Mediterranean delights alongside breathtaking views of Port Hercule and the Prince’s Palace. The decor, adorned with soft blues and zebra-striped bar seats, takes inspiration from Alfred Hitchcock's classic film To Catch a Thief, featuring Grace Kelly.

Nobu Fairmont Monte Carlo

Savor Japanese cuisine infused with South American flavors at the Monaco outpost of this prestigious restaurant within the Fairmont Monte-Carlo Hotel. Indulge in sushi, signature dishes like black cod yuzu miso, and creative cocktails like the Japanese mojito. Relax in private lounges or on the terrace, enjoying panoramic views of the shimmering sea.

Em Sherif Monte-Carlo

Chef Yasmina Hayek, hailing from a family of restaurateurs, artfully merges her Lebanese roots with Monaco's culinary scene. Her restaurant, set to reopen on May 3, 2024, at the Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo, offers a fusion of traditional and contemporary Middle Eastern flavors in an opulent setting, featuring a menu that whisks diners away to Beirut.

Maona Monte-Carlo

Maona Monte-Carlo captures the charm of 1960s Monaco with its vintage decor. The menu highlights cherished family recipes from the region and features a signature peach melba that pays tribute to Auguste Escoffier and the culinary traditions of the Riviera. The restaurant's summer cabaret by the water will debut on May 23, 2024.

Taera Monte-Carlo

Located on the patio at Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo, this restaurant brings Venezuelan cuisine to Monaco with a pop-up concept spearheaded by chef Victoria Vallenilla. The menu celebrates bold, vibrant flavors, reinterpreting classic dishes like arepas. The lively ambiance is enhanced by colorful frescoes from South American artist Viviana Grondona.

Les Perles de Monte-Carlo

For a delightful outdoor dining experience in the heart of Monaco, make your way to the end of Port de Fontvieille and settle at one of Les Perles de Monte-Carlo’s charming wooden tables. Here, you can savor freshly shucked oysters and shrimp alongside a glass of organic wine, all while taking in breathtaking views of the Monaco Cathedral.