The Michelin Guide’s New Stars Shine in L.A.: A Look at Meteora, Uka, and Holbox
This year, the Michelin Guide has awarded stars to only four restaurants in Los Angeles, underscoring the city’s growing reputation for haute cuisine. Among them, Chef Jordan Kahn’s innovative Vespertine received two stars, while his latest venture, Meteora, also joined the prestigious lineup. Additionally, Uka and Holbox were awarded their first Michelin stars, highlighting their unique approaches to Japanese and Mexican cuisine, respectively.
Meteora: A Multi-Sensory Culinary Adventure
At Meteora, Chef Jordan Kahn delivers a multi-sensory dining experience that takes inspiration from California’s diverse ecosystems. Offering seasonal omakase menus with a live-fire cooking focus, the restaurant features dishes like flame-seared oysters and Santa Barbara spot prawns with smoked prawn shell-infused butter. Designed by Tulum-based Roth Architecture, Meteora’s lush, biophilic interiors perfectly complement its innovative menu. Located at 6703 Melrose Ave, Meteora’s imaginative approach makes it an unforgettable culinary destination.
Uka: A Modern Kaiseki Journey
Located within Japan House at Ovation Hollywood, Uka showcases Chef Yoshitaka Mitsue’s meticulous approach to Japanese cuisine. His kaiseki menus offer a contemporary twist, using seasonal ingredients sourced from both Japan and California. Uka’s sleek design, featuring bonsai trees and bamboo accents, sets the stage for Chef Mitsue’s skillful use of aging and curing methods, creating a dining experience that reflects the traditions and artistry of Japanese cuisine. Visit Uka at Japan House, Ovation Hollywood, 6801 Hollywood Blvd.
Holbox: Mexican Coastal Cuisine with a Twist
At Holbox, Chef Gilberto Cetina Jr. brings a vibrant taste of Mexico’s coastal flavors to South Central L.A. Located in Mercado la Paloma, Holbox offers a casual dining experience with a focus on sustainable seafood. The restaurant’s eight-course tasting menu, available on select days, features inventive dishes that blend Mexican traditions with Southern California influences. For fresh, flavorful, and sustainable seafood dishes, Holbox at 3655 S Grand Ave is a must-visit.
Discover Los Angeles’ Michelin Stars
Explore these newly starred restaurants and experience the best of L.A.’s diverse culinary landscape, from the inventive Californian-inspired dishes at Meteora to Uka’s refined kaiseki and Holbox’s coastal Mexican flair.
