The MICHELIN Guide is expanding into the American South, shining a spotlight on the region’s rich culinary traditions. The inaugural edition highlights one standout restaurant earning two MICHELIN Stars. At the helm is a young chef whose bold, modern approach caught inspectors’ attention.
Emeril’s in New Orleans Earns Two MICHELIN Stars
MICHELIN Guide’s first-ever American South edition is here, covering the region’s most celebrated cuisines. Among this year’s honorees, Emeril’s in New Orleans stood out from the crowd. The restaurant is the only one to be awarded two MICHELIN Stars.
Emeril’s was founded by the legendary chef Emeril Lagasse and is currently led by his son E. J. Lagasse. At just 22, Lagasse has led the kitchen with remarkable skill, earning high praise from MICHELIN inspectors. He blends his own creative vision with his father’s legacy, celebrating the bold flavors of Southeast Louisiana and the Gulf South.
The 2025 MICHELIN Guide American South Young Chef Award Winner
That drive helped him become the youngest chef ever to lead a two-MICHELIN Star kitchen. Inspectors praised Lagasse’s refined take on New Orleans classics, elevated with modern technique. His approach positions Emeril’s as both a legacy name and a globally ambitious dining destination.
Lagasse trained at acclaimed restaurants including Le Bernardin, CORE by Clare Smyth, and Frantzén, developing a passion for food early on. This passion paved the way for him to soon become the youngest chef ever to lead a kitchen with two MICHELIN Stars. But he did not stop there.
Along with the stars, he has also won the 2025 Michelin Guide American South Young Chef Award. He did not just make a striking achievement, but also set a benchmark for young chefs in the culinary world.
MICHELIN Guide Inaugural Selection for the American South
This year, MICHELIN Guide inaugurated the American South edition, covering the southern USA region. By expanding into the region, the Guide recognizes the South’s dynamic food scene and helps diners discover top-quality experiences. He not only achieved a remarkable milestone but also set a new benchmark for young chefs nationwide.
In this edition, the Guide awards one restaurant two MICHELIN Stars, and ten restaurants one MICHELIN Star. The recognition also elevates chefs and restaurants across the region on the global culinary stage.
Emeril’s in New Orleans is the only restaurant to receive two MICHELIN Stars. Led by young chef E. J. Lagasse, the restaurant is owned by his father and legendary chef Emeril Lagasse.
The Guide’s Southern expansion opens new doors for rising chefs and adds fresh excitement to the region’s dining scene.
