Since entering Mexico, Michelin Guide has focused on highlighting the country’s depth of culinary talent across regional cuisines. The addition of the three states now brings even more local identity and heritage into focus, joining an existing selection that includes Mexico City, Oaxaca, Baja California, Baja California Sur, Quintana Roo and Nuevo León.
According to Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the Michelin Guide, the expansion reflects the continued evolution of Mexican cuisine on the world stage, noting the creativity and innovation driving chefs and restaurateurs across the country. The Guide’s inspectors emphasized that each of the newly added regions offers a distinct culinary voice rooted in history, culture and local ingredients.
Jalisco is recognized for its vibrant food traditions, shaped by a blend of Indigenous and Spanish influences. Puebla is celebrated for its layered, complex cuisine that reflects both colonial heritage and deep Indigenous roots, while Yucatán stands out for its distinctive Mayan-influenced flavors and contemporary culinary interpretations of regional ingredients.
The inclusion of these destinations also reflects a broader tourism impact highlighted by Ignacio Alarcón, National President of CANIRAC (Cámara Nacional de la Industria de Restaurantes y Alimentos Condimentados). Alarcón described the Michelin Guide as a powerful catalyst for international travel demand. He noted that Michelin plays a key role in shaping global travel decisions, elevating destinations and strengthening Mexico’s positioning as a world-class culinary hub.
29 restaurants with awarded Stars in 2026
Alongside restaurant recognition, the Michelin Guide continues to expand its hotel portfolio through its Keys program, which identifies standout properties worldwide based on design, architecture, service and character. These distinctions aim to provide travelers with a curated hospitality experience that mirrors the prestige of Michelin Stars in dining.
In its latest Mexico selection ceremony held in Guadalajara, Jalisco, the Guide awarded Stars to 29 restaurants. Notably, two establishments retained two-star status: Pujol and Quintonil, reinforcing Mexico City’s position as a leading global dining capital.
Among the new highlights, Jalisco saw one-star recognition for Alcalde and Xocol. In Yucatán, first-time Michelin Stars were awarded to Huniik, Ix’im and La Barra de Huniik, marking a strong debut for the region.
While restaurants in Puebla were evaluated for the first time under the expanded scope, none received a star in this edition, though industry observers expect the state to be closely watched in future selections.
Additional new entries in the Guide include Gaba in Mexico City and Pangea and KOLI Cocina de Origen in Nuevo León, further diversifying the national culinary map.
