Chronicling the Michelin Guide’s 2021 Return in Chicago

In April, Michelin released Chicago’s first updated ratings after a year-long pandemic hiatus. The tire company’s 2021 guide bestowed its stars on 24 local restaurants, including three newcomers: Ever in Fulton Market (two stars), the Bar and the Dining Room at Moody Tongue on the Near South Side (two stars), and Porto in West Town (one star). Its Bib Gourmand list, a value-driven collection, featured 58 establishments with 10 new inclusions.

The rankings returned just as the pandemic began to wane in the U.S. and Chicago’s hospitality industry starts to get back on its feet. Indoor dining bans and other safety measures last year forced changes at all restaurants, including the fine dining spots typically favored by inspectors. These new rankings are based on pre-pandemic meals and summer follow-up visits, according to Michelin.

Michelin, trying to be sensitive to pandemic pressures, didn’t penalize restaurants that were temporary closed or ones that shifted to carryout-friendly menus. However, they did strip Kumiko in West Loop of its star after a chef change.

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