The Michelin Guide has long been one of the world’s most influential restaurant authorities, awarding stars to establishments that demonstrate exceptional quality, consistency and creativity. In 2024, the guide expanded to Texas. Austin made history last year when three local barbecue joints earned Michelin stars, a first for American-style barbecue.
LeRoy and Lewis — No. 9 on the Statesman’s 2025 Best Restaurants in Austin list — earned a Michelin star for its inventive take on Texas barbecue. Chef Evan LeRoy’s menu goes beyond brisket, featuring flat iron steaks, burgers and chicken-fried steak specials. Critics hailed it as “Austin’s most original barbecue restaurant — and one of its best.”
La Barbecue captured a star with its signature brisket, praised for a dark, peppery bark that reflects the fiery spirit of founder LeAnn Mueller.
Chuck Charnichart of Barbs B Q was named the 2025 Michelin Guide Texas Young Chef Award winner. The restaurant in Lockhart was also singled out by the Michelin Guide as the city’s top dining destination.
Charnichart, a young woman of color, has steadily built her reputation as a pitmaster. Her path to running Barbs B Q reflects the same dedication required to run the smokehouse itself.