Mexican Three Michelin Stars

Nopales from the prickly pear cactus are prepared at Californios in San Francisco on Thursday, July 16, 2026.

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With a historic 3 Michelin stars, a Mexican restaurant in San Francisco defies stereotypes

With a historic 3 Michelin stars, a Mexican restaurant in San Francisco defies stereotypes

Chef Val Cantú and his team at Californios in San Francisco have earned a historic third Michelin star, the first for a Mexican restaurant worldwide. This achievement validates the idea that Mexican cuisine can offer an elevated dining experience. Cantú says he and his 40-person staff have been feeling “a little bit more confidence in their step” after the accolade. Cantú co-founded the restaurant after asking himself, “Why is no one doing Mexican cuisine and treating it with like extreme care?” He received his first star when Californios opened in 2015 and the second in 2018. The Michelin Guide praised its innovative approach, blending Mexican culture with California ingredients.