Michelin Stars in the Beaujolais
Beaujolais is best known for its convivial wines, picturesque villages, and bistro culture rooted in tradition. But what happens when this terroir-driven charm meets the rarefied world of haute cuisine? The result is a handful of exceptional restaurants that proudly carry both the Bistrot Beaujolais label and Michelin stars — an alliance of authenticity and excellence.
Beaujolais Bistros with Michelin Stars
L'Auberge de Clochemerle – Vaux-en-Beaujolais
- Chef: Romain Barthe & Delphine Barthe
- Michelin Rating: ★ 1 star (re-awarded in 2025)
- Bistrot Category: Gastronomic
- Highlight: Seasonal, inventive cuisine with local roots
Nestled in the village that inspired Clochemerle, this auberge is a tale of perseverance. Chef Romain Barthe originally earned his Michelin star in 2012 but lost it in 2020. Through relentless work and creativity, he regained it in 2025.
His cuisine balances seasonal ingredients, technical precision, and modern flair, making it a beacon of contemporary Beaujolais gastronomy.
L'Auberge du Cep – Fleurie
- Chef: Aurélien Mérot & Camille Mérot
- Michelin Rating: ★ 1 star (since 2021)
- Bistrot Category: Gastronomic
- Signature Dishes: Pâté en croûte with pistachio mustard, “Coq en pâte”
Located in the heart of Cru Fleurie, this restaurant is a cornerstone of Beaujolais culinary history. Its Michelin story dates back to 1951, and after a decade-long pause, chef Aurélien Mérot brought the star back in 2021. His style blends deep respect for regional classics with a playful, technical edge.
Not officially listed, but worth the journey: Restaurant Guy Lassausaie – Chasselay
- Chef: Guy Lassausaie (Meilleur Ouvrier de France)
- Michelin Rating: ★ 1 star (previously 2 stars from 2009–2019)
- Location: Just outside the Beaujolais border
- Note: Not a listed Bistrot Beaujolais but deeply connected to local terroir
Guy Lassausaie’s restaurant in Chasselay bridges Lyonnais and Beaujolais gastronomy with elegance. Though no longer officially part of the Bistrot Beaujolais network, it showcases regional produce and wines with a precision that has earned consistent Michelin recognition.
The Bistrot Beaujolais network
The Bistrot Beaujolais network isn’t just a marketing label — it’s a carefully curated community of over 300 establishments worldwide that promote:
- Beaujolais wines by the glass and bottle
- Local, seasonal cuisine with identity
- Warm hospitality and cultural heritage
Three Categories of Bistrot Beaujolais:
- Classic – Traditional bistros with simple fare
- Beaujonomic – Contemporary and bistronomic concepts
- Gastronomic – Fine dining rooted in Beaujolais terroir
The two Michelin-starred addresses above fall into the Gastronomic tier — a rare intersection of local authenticity and global acclaim.
What is a Michelin Star, really?
Awarded by anonymous inspectors, Michelin stars are the most respected culinary awards in the world. Here’s what each level signifies:
- ★ One Star: High-quality cooking, worth a stop
- ★★ Two Stars: Excellent cuisine, worth a detour
- ★★★ Three Stars: Exceptional cuisine, worth a special journey
Evaluation Criteria:
- Ingredient quality
- Technique mastery
- Flavor harmony
- Chef’s personality
- Consistency over time
Notably, service and décor are not evaluated — the stars are based solely on what’s on the plate.
These Michelin-starred bistros embody the essence of Beaujolais: authentic, accessible, and anchored in the land. They show that the region isn’t just about Nouveau wine and rustic charm — it’s also a place where culinary ambition and terroir expression can shine on the global stage.
Whether you’re a wine lover, a foodie, or both, make room on your itinerary — and your palate — for the gastronomic heart of Beaujolais.