Here’s what $500 buys at a Michelin-star restaurant
We found Bay Area menus at price points that start at $500+ -- and as little as $225, $140, even $85.
Curious to explore the world of Michelin dining?
After the 2024 Michelin stars were awarded this week, we decided to check on the current range of prices.
These days, when a decent burger and fries can set you back $25, the prices for top-tier dinners made with extravagant ingredients may not seem out of line. (Naturally, wine and service charges are extra. Oh, and you’ll likely be paying in advance when you make your reservations.)
Here’s a sampling:
SingleThread, Healdsburg, 3 stars: The farm-to-table Michelin experience from owners Kyle and Katina Connaughton runs $440 to $485 per person for 10 courses. The chef (Kyle) and the farmer (Katina) again received a three-star rating from Michelin for their menus that marry California cuisine and Japanese technique. Reservations: www.singlethreadfarms.com
The French Laundry, Yountville, 3 stars: The price at this legendary restaurant from chef Thomas Keller will depend not so much on the menu as where you sit to enjoy the pre fixe meal. You can reserve seats for $390 a person in the main restaurant. If you’d like to eat alfresco, courtyard seating will cost $490. Want something a little more exclusive? You can dine at the Bay Laurel Tree Table for $550 per person. Reservations: www.thomaskeller.com/tfl
Aubergine, Carmel, 2 stars: This week, the Michelin Guide elevated chef Justin Cogley’s Aubergine, located at L’Aurgerge Carmel, from one star to two stars. The eight-course tasting menu costs $265 per person for seating in either the main dining room or the courtyard. Reservations: https://auberginecarmel.com
Plumed Horse, Saratoga, 1 star: At this longtime standout, diners have a couple of choices: Executive chef Peter Armellino’s tasting menu — six courses plus canapes to start — costs $225 per person. Or, his four-course pre fixe menu, with choices in each category, may be ordered for $128. Reservations: https://plumedhorse.com
Chez TJ, Mountain View, 1 star: At owner George Aviet’s charming Victorian with garden restaurant — which Michelin has honored for 17 years running — the full tasting menu from executive chef Stan Michalski is priced at $225. The restaurant also offers a “condensed, yet delightful” four-course garden menu for $140. Reservations: www.cheztj.com
Hilda and Jesse, San Francisco, 1 star: This newly starred restaurant from Kristina Compton and Rachel Sillcocks features what they call a five-course “chef’s adventure menu” for $85. A sample springtime lineup included Liberty Farms aged duck breast, McFarland Farms trout and grilled artichokes. Reservations: www.hildaandjessesf.com