March 16, 2026 will mark a watershed moment for Monaco. For the first time in its long association with the Michelin Guide, the Grimaldi Forum will host the Guide’s annual France & Monaco ceremony. It’s not just another city on the tour; this is recognition of Monaco’s standing as a global gastronomic heavyweight.
“By hosting the Michelin Guide France & Monaco ceremony in Monaco for the first time, we are honouring one of the Guide’s historic destinations, whose gastronomic scene epitomizes excellence, creativity and international reach,” Gwendal Poullennec, Michelin’s International Director, said in the announcement.
A Rich History Meets Modern Ambition
Monaco’s link with Michelin isn’t new — the Principality has been featured in the Guide since the very first edition in 1900, meaning over a century of culinary scrutiny.
But in recent years, Monaco’s food scene has evolved in ways that give it fresh shine. For instance, L’Abysse Monte-Carlo, a sushi temple brought to life by Yannick Alléno and sushi master Yasunari Okazaki garnered two Michelin stars shortly after its opening in 2024. Elsa at Monte-Carlo Beach also took a star, leaning into an inventive “marine garden” theme with dishes inspired by sea-air, local produce and elegance.
Meanwhile, Les Ambassadeurs by Christophe Cussac, located at Métropole Monte-Carlo, has also been singled out for excellence.
Currently, Monaco is compact but mighty with eight Michelin-starred establishments packed into its 2 square kilometres, including one triple-starred standout.
The Stars to Watch & the Stakes
As Monaco prepares, several names loom large. Of course, Le Louis XV – Alain Ducasse at Hôtel de Paris continues to set the benchmark with its three-star status. Chef Emmanuel Pilon (along with pastry chef Sandro Micheli) steer the kitchen, blending Riviera terroir, sea-inspired flavours, refined technique, and a wine cellar that is the envy of gourmands.
Then there is Les Ambassadeurs by Cussac (two stars), L’Abysse Monte-Carlo (two stars), Blue Bay by Marcel Ravin, Elsa, Le Grill, La Table d’Antonio Salvatore at Rampoldi, and Pavyllon each bring something unique to Monaco’s table , different cuisines, different dining atmospheres.
Monaco will want to show that it’s not resting on its laurels. With global diners more focused than ever on provenance, sustainability, narrative, and experiences (not just plates), there may be surprises: new stars, shifts in what trends get rewarded, perhaps even recognition for some lesser-known venues.
Mark Your Calendar
March 16, 2026, at the Grimaldi Forum is the date when the culinary world will watch Monaco not only serve but be celebrated.
In the lead-up, expect more releases of contenders revealing which restaurants are under consideration for new stars and the suspense of who might lose or gain.
There will be sneak peeks into the special awards, events, pop-ups and tastings around Monaco to build excitement.
And for food lovers, from locals to travellers, it’s a rare chance to enjoy the crescendo of prestige that Michelin brings, right on Monaco’s doorstep.
Any bets on there being a second three star jewel in Monaco? And what about the dark horses for a new star, or well loved oases like Marius, Zefferini or Môme. Write in to HelloMonaco. Tell us!
