TOKYO – Tokyo has once again solidified its status as the world's premier dining destination, continuing to lead all other cities in its number of Michelin-starred restaurants, according to the newly released Michelin Guide Tokyo 2026.
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| A dish prepared at Myojaku restaurant - the only establishment to be upgraded to “3 stars” |
The 19th edition of the prestigious guide features a total of 526 Tokyo establishments. Among them, an elite group of 12 restaurants have earned the coveted three-star distinction, the highest honor in the culinary world. The guide also awards two stars to 26 restaurants and one star to 122 restaurants.
Despite the total number of starred restaurants for 2026 being slightly lower at 160, down from 170 in the previous year, the figure does not detract from Tokyo's dominant position on the global gastronomic stage.
Gwendal Poullennec, the International Director of the Michelin Guides, stated that Tokyo continues to inspire food lovers with "the mastery, creativity, and emotional power of its cuisine."
"Tokyo is a city where centuries of culinary tradition meet bold innovation," Poullennec said. "From sushi prepared with Edo-period techniques, to kaiseki that reflects the seasons and Japanese culture, to world cuisines reimagined with Japanese flavors and skill, this year’s selection once again highlights the extraordinary depth of this metropolis."
Highlights from the 2026 Guide
The latest guide features seven newly promoted restaurants and recognizes eleven new establishments with their first one-star rating.
Among the promotions, Myojaku, a restaurant in the city's Nishiazabu district celebrated for its exquisite Japanese cuisine, was the sole establishment to be elevated to the prestigious three-star category.
Joining the esteemed two-star club are Nishiazabu Sushi Shin, and the kaiseki (Japanese haute cuisine) restaurants Hakuun and Ensui.
Making their debut in the guide with a freshly minted one star are Khao, a restaurant that transforms Japanese ingredients into Thai specialties, and Manoir, which serves delicate French cuisine.
Special Awards Recognize Industry Titans
The 2026 guide also presented several special awards to honor outstanding individuals in the industry.
Tsuyoshi Nakamura, the sommelier at the new one-star restaurant Manoir, was honored with the "Sommelier Award" for his captivating storytelling and profound expertise in wine.
A particularly poignant recognition was the "Mentor Chef Award," which was presented to Kenjiro Kanemoto, the 97-year-old, fifth-generation owner of the one-star eel restaurant Nodaiwa Azabu Iikura Honten. Kanemoto holds the title of the world's oldest Michelin-certified chef, and the award celebrates his lifelong dedication to his craft and his role in nurturing future culinary talent.