Exploring MINIMAL, World’s First Michelin-Starred Gelato Shop

In 2024, one restaurant made gelato its star — MINIMAL — and stood out for making gelato its central offering, becoming the world’s only Michelin one-star gelato specialty shop. Its achievement has drawn curious eyes from around the globe.

The Hotels I’ve Slept In – Luxury Is Not My Priority

My work, whether curating gourmet tours or "testing restaurants" around the world for reviews, often takes me to hotels of many different types. Yet over the years, I've rarely shared much about the hotels I personally love, as most of my writing has focused on restaurants.

More Luxury Brands Are Stepping Into the Dining World

The phenomenon of luxury brands stepping into the dining world is gaining momentum globally. From flagship cafés to Michelin-starred collaborations, these ventures blend haute couture with haute cuisine, but do they truly result in a win-win synergy between brand and chef, or is the harmony more elusive than it seems?

全球餐飲新聞：新加坡三星Odette、上海LING LONG四手聯彈；巴黎三星Arpège宣佈將轉全素

1 新加坡三星Odette客座上海LING LONG

Beyond the World's 50 Best: What Restaurants Really Face

In a recent conversation with a chef, I casually asked, “How have things been lately?” He responded with a faint, weary smile, then quietly began talking about the pressure he had been under.

In the Heel of Italy: A Vegetable Meal to Remember

Tucked quietly inside this mock-Mediterranean village is Due Camini, the resort’s fine dining restaurant. The atmosphere is calm and unhurried. The chef, Domingo Schingaro, doesn’t speak much about his philosophy, but by the time you finish the menu, it becomes clear that every choice is intentional.

Den, Tokyo: A Comforting Meal Done Just Right

I remember my first visit to Den in Tokyo—it was still at the old location in Jimbocho, before the move to Jingumae.From earning two Michelin stars, losing one, regaining two, to watching its fluctuating rankings on the World’s 50 Best list, I’ve witnessed Den go through many stages over the years.

The Hunter-Chef of Niigata: The Wild Soul of Uozen

Located in Sanjo, Niigata, Uozen stands quietly amidst rice fields and rural landscapes. It was once a traditional Japanese eatery run by Chef Inoue’s father-in-law. In 2013, the couple took over the space and transformed it into a French restaurant rooted in the land’s essence.

From Struggles to Glory: Taian Table’s Rise to Three Stars

Taian Table is currently one of the only two Michelin three-star restaurants in Shanghai, a recognition that owes much to the relentless efforts of Stefan Stiller over two decades in China.

Rebirth of Hiša Franko—A Transformation Beyond Comparison

I first visited Slovenia in 2018, and I still vividly recall the crystalline streams that meandered through the valley, leaving an indelible impression. Seven years later, I returned, this time driving from Udine, Italy. In less than an hour, we found ourselves once again at Hiša Franko.

Michelle

Jocelyn Chen

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