Cariño Garners Its First Michelin Star
A Bold and Creative Approach to Mexican Cuisine
Carino, a Mexican restaurant located in Chicago’s Uptown neighborhood, has been awarded its first Michelin star just a year after its opening.
Recognized for Its Distinct Approach
The Michelin Guide praised owner and Chef Norman Fenton for his “distinct, ambitious manner” in his approach to Mexican cuisine. The guide highlighted Fenton’s use of unique ingredients, such as huitlacoche, a parasitic disease that grows on corn and is a Latin American delicacy.
A Dynamic and Energetic Dining Experience
The Michelin Guide noted that Fenton’s pace is energetic, and his courses are bold and creative. The guide described a stunning huitlacoche ravioli with fried corn silk, a queso truffle quesadilla, and a lamb tartare tostada seasoned in the style of al pastor.
A Reimagining of Familiar Dishes
The guide also praised Fenton and his team for taking familiar dishes like tacos and tostadas and reimagining them in innovative ways.
Congratulations from Carino
Carino took to Instagram to express thanks to its team and diners for the recognition.
“What a year, what an honor,” Carino posted on Instagram. “We are beyond thrilled to have been awarded our first star by the Michelin Guide. Congratulations to our entire team for all of their hard work over this past year that has brought Carino to life. This has truly been a team effort and we wouldn’t be here today without you.”
Other Chicago Restaurants Receive Recognition
Alinea retained its three stars, and Smyth maintained its three stars from last year. Logan Square pasta-focused hot spot Daisies received a Green Star for the second year in a row.
The Complete List of 2024 Michelin-Starred Restaurants in Chicago
- Three Michelin Stars: Alinea (Cuisine: Creative), Smyth (Cuisine: Contemporary)
- Two Michelin Stars: Ever (Cuisine: Modern), Oriole (Cuisine: Contemporary)
- One Michelin Star: Atelier (Cuisine: American), Boka (Cuisine: Contemporary), EL Ideas (Cuisine: Contemporary), Elske (Cuisine: Contemporary), Esmé (Cuisine: Contemporary), Galit (Cuisine: Middle Eastern), Indienne (Cuisine: Indian), Kasama (Cuisine: Filipino), Mako (Cuisine: Japanese), Moody Tongue (Cuisine: Contemporary), Next (Cuisine: Contemporary), Schwa (Cuisine: Contemporary), Sepia (Cuisine: American), Topolobampo (Cuisine: Mexican)
- Green Star: Daisies (Cuisine: Italian)
Conclusion
Carino’s first Michelin star is a testament to its bold and creative approach to Mexican cuisine. The restaurant’s unique use of ingredients and innovative dishes have earned it recognition from the Michelin Guide. We congratulate Carino on this achievement and look forward to seeing what the future holds for this exciting restaurant.
FAQs
What is the Michelin Guide?
The Michelin Guide is an annual publication that reviews and rates restaurants and hotels around the world. The guide is known for its star system, which awards one to three stars to restaurants based on their quality of food, service, and overall dining experience.
What is the difference between a one-star and a two-star restaurant?
A one-star restaurant is considered a “very good” restaurant, with high-quality food and service. A two-star restaurant is considered an “excellent” restaurant, with exceptional food, service, and overall dining experience.
Can I visit Carino?
Yes, Carino is open for dinner and accepts reservations. We recommend checking their website or calling ahead to confirm hours and availability.
