The Michelin Guide 2025 unveiled its new stars on Monday, March 31, 2025, showcasing a remarkable list of chefs who have risen to culinary fame, particularly those who have participated in the popular cooking competition, "Top Chef." The guide, a prestigious benchmark in the culinary world, awarded 57 new stars this year, with several notable figures from the show making their mark.
Among the standout winners is Adrien Cachot, a finalist from season 11 of "Top Chef." He received his first star for his restaurant Vaisseau, located in the 11th arrondissement of Paris. This recognition comes after a journey that began in the competitive kitchen of the show, where he impressed judges with his creativity and skill.
Also making waves is Sarah Maignuy, a finalist in season 12, who has been awarded her first Michelin star for her restaurant Freia in Nantes. Maignuy's culinary venture is particularly unique, as it is situated in a greenhouse atop a parking garage, offering a plant-based menu that has captivated Michelin inspectors.
Tabata Mey, who participated in season 3, earned a star for her restaurant Ombellule in Lyon. Mey's journey reflects the diverse paths chefs take after competing on the show, showcasing their resilience and innovation in the culinary field.
Jean Imbert, the winner of season 3, continues to shine, receiving another star for La Palme d’Or in Cannes. This accolade adds to his already impressive culinary portfolio, further establishing him as a leading figure in gourmet cuisine.
Fanny Rey, a finalist from season 2, has achieved a significant milestone by obtaining a second star for her establishment, L’Auberge de Saint-Rémy in Saint-Rémy de Provence. Rey's journey exemplifies the potential for chefs to flourish even after not winning the competition.
Philippe Etchebest, a well-known judge on "Top Chef," also received recognition with a second star for his restaurant Maison Nouvelle in Bordeaux. His dual role as a mentor and competitor highlights the interconnected nature of the culinary community.
Victor Mercier, who has held a Michelin star since 2022 for his restaurant FIED in Paris, was awarded a green star in 2025 for his commitment to eco-friendly practices. Mercier expressed his excitement about this recognition on Instagram, stating, "I awaited this green star with great anticipation because, perhaps presumptuously, I believed I deserved it. Three years after the red star, it has finally arrived." This acknowledgment emphasizes the growing importance of sustainability in the culinary industry.
The previous year, Camille Delcroix, the season 9 winner, joined the ranks of Michelin-starred chefs with his restaurant Bacôve in Saint-Omer. He was the only "Top Chef" alumnus to receive a star in the 2024 guide, demonstrating the competitive nature of the culinary world.
In 2023, five former contestants were awarded Michelin stars, showcasing the continued success of "Top Chef" alumni. The show has become a significant platform for chefs to gain recognition and establish their culinary brands.
The current season, season 16, is airing on M6, with contestants vying not only for the title but also for the chance to earn their first Michelin star in the future. This ongoing competition continues to inspire and motivate aspiring chefs across France.
As the Michelin Guide evolves, it reflects changing culinary trends and the impact of television on the dining landscape. The 2025 edition now boasts 29 chefs who have emerged from the "Top Chef" competition, highlighting the show's influence on the culinary arts.
Looking at the broader picture, the success of these chefs illustrates that participation in a high-stakes cooking competition can lead to significant opportunities, even for those who do not win. Many participants have leveraged their experiences on "Top Chef" to create successful careers, proving that the journey is just as important as the destination.
For instance, Mory Sacko, who gained recognition during the 11th season, opened his restaurant MoSuke in Paris shortly after the competition and received a Michelin star just six weeks after launching. His success story underscores the potential for rapid growth and recognition in the culinary field.
Alexia Duchêne, who competed in the 10th season, has taken her talents to New York, where she plans to open a new restaurant called Le Chêne with her husband, Ronan Le May. Her move reflects a broader trend of chefs seeking to expand their horizons beyond their home countries.
Guillaume Sanchez, who participated in season 8, has also made a name for himself, winning a Michelin star for his restaurant NE / SO, which he opened after closing his first establishment. His story demonstrates the resilience and adaptability of chefs in a competitive industry.
Coline Faulquier, who reached the final in season 7, has opened Signature in Marseille, which earned a Michelin star in 2021. Her journey from contestant to award-winning chef showcases the long-term benefits of participating in "Top Chef."
The impact of "Top Chef" on the culinary landscape is undeniable, as it continues to produce talented chefs who push the boundaries of culinary artistry. The Michelin Guide's recognition of these chefs not only celebrates their achievements but also inspires future generations to pursue their culinary dreams.
As the culinary world evolves, the stories of these chefs remind us that success can come in many forms, and the journey is often just as rewarding as the accolades. The Michelin stars awarded this year serve as a testament to the hard work, creativity, and passion of these chefs, many of whom have transformed their participation in "Top Chef" into extraordinary culinary careers.
