Michelin Guide Southwest Heads to Las Vegas

Las Vegas will host the inaugural Michelin Guide Southwest ceremony on Wednesday, August 26, at Fontainebleau Las Vegas. It marks the guide's return to Las Vegas for the first time since 2009. The ceremony will recognize standout restaurants across Arizona, Nevada, New Mexico, and Utah. Anonymous inspectors are already scouting restaurants across the region. Attendance is by invitation only. Chefs will learn whether their restaurants have earned a Michelin Star or another distinction on the night.

Why Las Vegas Was Chosen for the Southwest Guide

The Michelin Guide Southwest was announced in December, marking the guide's first regional Southwest edition after more than 15 years away from Las Vegas. The guide first covered Las Vegas in 2008, with a second edition following in 2009. That year, 17 Las Vegas restaurants earned Michelin Stars. The guide then suspended its Las Vegas coverage, citing economic conditions.

Now the city is back in the spotlight. Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the Michelin Guide, called Las Vegas a natural choice. "Las Vegas already has a shared history with the Michelin Guide, and it proved to be a fitting destination to host our ceremony," he said. "As a city that shines bright, it will serve as the perfect backdrop to spotlight the culinary talents across these four states."

Michelin Inspectors Hunt for the Southwest's Best Restaurants

Michelin's anonymous inspectors are canvassing the four-state Southwest region, searching for standout restaurants and hidden gems. The guide aims to highlight the diverse cuisine and standout dining experiences found across Arizona, Nevada, New Mexico, and Utah.

Poullennec said inspectors are "eager to share the many flavors and experiences they've discovered." The first selections will be revealed at the August ceremony. The Michelin Guide holds its ceremony in a different city each year.

Las Vegas, with its legacy of global cuisine and culinary talent, was chosen as the ideal host for 2026.

Las Vegas Tourism Leaders Respond to Michelin's Return

Local tourism leaders say the announcement reflects how much Las Vegas' dining scene has evolved. Steve Hill, CEO and President of the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority, pointed to the city's distinct culinary scene. "When I talk about Super Bowls and Formula One and college football national championships, we are the only city in the world that has the ability to treat 60,000 people like a VIP," Hill said. He added that the scale of seating at top venues sets the city apart. Hill also called the ceremony "synonymous with excellence and prestige, recognizing restaurants that are at the top of their craft and shape each city's culinary landscape."