Michelin star restaurants

Question

I have been searching for a Michelin star restaurant. I have looked at dozens, most are tasting menu only. The only 3 i have found that don't are Niku Steakhouse, Angler, and San Ho Won.

Are there others that are Ala Carte...we have a fairly picky 12 year old with us, but Steak or fairly regular hamburger would work. Maybe short ribs. If it was just my daughter and I would not be a problem.

Please help....Thank you.

Answer

Finding Michelin-starred restaurants in San Francisco that offer à la carte options suitable for a picky 12-year-old can be a bit tricky, as many are tasting-menu focused. However, there are several that provide flexible menus or options like steaks, short ribs, or more familiar dishes.

Michelin-starred restaurants with à la carte or flexible options:

Niku Steakhouse – You already mentioned this; it’s ideal for steak lovers and offers classic cuts that a younger diner might enjoy.
Angler – Focuses on seafood, but they have some larger proteins like short ribs and meat options. Some dishes can be shared, and staff are accommodating for kids.
San Ho Won – Korean cuisine, offers barbecue items and small plates. Some approachable options for children include grilled meats and short ribs.
Benu – While mostly tasting-menu, they may offer one or two dishes à la carte at lunch. Worth checking, especially for meat-focused options.
SPQR – Michelin-starred Italian; offers à la carte pasta, meats, and vegetables. Their menu is relatively flexible and kid-friendly if they like pasta or simple meat dishes.
Kokkari Estiatorio – Greek/Mediterranean cuisine with a Michelin plate recognition; offers à la carte grilled meats and seafood that could appeal to a child.
Omakase-only places (like Atelier Crenn, Quince) – Typically not ideal for picky eaters, so best avoided if your daughter wants more familiar foods.

Tips for dining with a picky 12-year-old at Michelin-starred restaurants:

Call ahead and explain your child’s preferences; many high-end restaurants are willing to adapt a dish or allow simpler options.
Consider going at lunch rather than dinner; some restaurants offer more flexible à la carte menus at lunch.
Sharing plates or ordering a single protein with sides can make it easier for children to have familiar food without ordering a full tasting menu.
Don’t be afraid to look for Michelin-plate or Bib Gourmand restaurants as alternatives; many have excellent food and à la carte menus without the formal tasting restrictions.

In summary, your best bets are Niku Steakhouse, Angler, and San Ho Won, with SPQR and select lunch options at Benu or similar restaurants potentially workable. Always call ahead to confirm flexibility for younger diners.

Michelin star restaurants

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