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6 Ways To Affordably Eat at a Michelin-Star Restaurant

April 25, 2024

3 min Read

Written by Choncé Maddox

Edited by Maria Concepcion

Cheerful business people eating at the restaurant.

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A Michelin-star restaurant is the epitome of culinary excellence and you can expect some of the most delicious food. The experience, however, often comes with a hefty price tag that can deter many from dining at these prestigious establishments.

You can still enjoy some Michelin-star restaurants if you’re on a budget. These 6 tips and strategies can help cut your bill down — especially when combining multiple strategies.

1. Opt For Lunch Over Dinner

The first rule in dining out at a Michelin-star restaurant on a budget is simple — choose lunch over dinner. Many of these world-renowned establishments offer a prix-fixe menu during lunch hours that is considerably more inexpensive than their à la carte or tasting menus offered in the evening. The quality and creativity of the dishes remain stellar, but are often accompanied by a lighter price tag.

2. Indulge in the Daily Special

Daily specials or the chef’s recommended dish can be another ideal way to save on your meal if you’re flexible and don’t mind trying something new. These options are often priced more competitively as part of a promotional effort to showcase new creations or as a means to clear stock for the freshest and finest ingredients.

Daily special items may also be highlighted in terms of taste and value, making your meal as authentic and special as it is cost-effective.

3. Celebrate Your Birthday With a Star

Another surprising way to dine at a Michelin-star restaurant without paying a fortune is to book the reservation on your birthday. Some restaurants offer complimentary or heavily discounted meals for guests celebrating their special day. Just ask ahead of time and see if there’s anything special you need to do, like sign up for emails or a loyalty program.

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4. Skip the Alcohol

A significant portion of the bill at high-end restaurants often comes from the wine pairing or signature cocktail that accompanies the meal. Opting out of these luxurious libations in favor of a simple, and complimentary, bottle of water can dramatically reduce your final bill. There’s really no need to indulge in pricey alcohol to appreciate the chef’s artistry if you’re not much of a drinker.

5. Consider Meat-Free Options

Chefs work just as hard to make delicious vegetarian dishes as they do for meat and seafood dishes. Skipping the meat can also help you save a significant amount without sacrificing quality. Look for restaurants that offer set menus predominantly focusing on seasonal produce and get ready for a culinary adventure that’s not only kinder on your wallet but also on the planet.

6. Dine Overseas

If all else fails and you’re still struggling to find an affordable way into a Michelin-star restaurant, consider expanding your search beyond your borders. Many countries have Michelin-star restaurants with lower prices due to the cost of living differences including: