Michelin Guide Expanding Across Colorado in 2026

As someone who lives in and loves Colorado, you could say I am a bit biased toward the state. I love the food that this state has to offer. Some of the best sushi I have ever eaten has come out of this landlocked state.

Michelin Guide First Entered Colorado in 2023

In 2023, the Michelin Guide announced its expansion into Colorado. However, only a few cities and counties were qualifiers. Denver County, Boulder County, Aspen, Snowmass Village, Vail, and Beaver Creek. Soon, that will change.

READ MORE: Colorado's First Michelin-Rated Restaurants

When you think of Michelin, you probably think of the tires, not fine dining and experiences. Well, you might be surprised to know that a tire company started the Michelin Guide to encourage automobile owners in France to get out and explore the country, while boosting auto and tire sales.

Today, thousands of restaurants around the world have been rated in various categories by the Michelin Guide and are known to be the best dining anywhere. Today, the highest honor a restaurant can receive from the Michelin Guide is a three-star award. This Three-Star Award is only given to exceptional cuisine worthy of a special journey.

Of course, with an honor like a Three-Star Award from the Michelin Guide, it's going to be hard to get a reservation, and it's going to have a hefty price tag. As of 2024, the most expensive Michelin Guide restaurant is Ginza Kitafuku in Tokyo, Japan, often exceeding $2,000 per person for a memorable dinner.

Michelin Guide Expanding to all of Colorado

According to 9News, the Michelin Guide will be expanding to the entire state of Colorado in 2026. This means your favorite restaurants in Fort Collins, Loveland, Greeley, Windsor, or anywhere else in Colorado could have a chance to be recognized as some of the top restaurants in the world.

READ MORE: Fort Collins Pizzeria is One of the Best in the USA

Michelin Guide's presence in Colorado has already elevated Colorado's reputation for culinary excellence. Today's announcement will further boost our restaurant industry, our tourism industry, and the neighborhoods and communities across the state that benefit from strong local food scenes.

Eve Lieberman, Executive Director of the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade, told 9News.