No matter where you live, it's easy to assume that a Michelin-starred meal requires you to splurge and is better reserved for special occasions. This stands even more true when you're travelling. After all, every penny counts. But what if I told you that you could get said meal for less than the price of an H&M outfit? You just have to know when and where to go to.
There are actually several Michelin-starred restaurants across the world that are extremely affordable. At some of these places, you can get a complete meal for less than $5 (Rs 350). So, using the list of the 50 cheapest Michelin Starred restaurants in the world as a guide, I bring you my top 10 from around the globe!
This list is in the ascending order of price
1. Soya sauce chicken rice and noodles for Rs 154 ($2.20)
Where: Hawker Chan, Singapore
The cheapest Michelin Starred meal in the world is also immensely popular–both with locals and tourists. Formally known as Liao Fan’s Hong Kong Soya Chicken Rice and Noodles, the vendor is open till seven in the evening. But they sell out of their signature dish pretty early, as early as two in the afternoon on weekends. So make sure you reach the place early to reserve a spot in the queue.
2. Assorted dim sums for Rs 264 ($3.80)
Where: Tim Ho Wan, Hong Kong
With over 20 varieties of dim sums on offer, all made with precision and priced reasonably, this place is a must visit in Hong Kong. They keep a few items on rotation every two to three months to keep the menu fresh. If you're here, don't miss the shrimp dumplings, baked buns with barbecue pork filling and steamed beef balls.
3. A la carte Korean meal for Rs 493 ($7.10)
Where: Hamo, Seoul, South Korea
The word Hamo means "of course" in the Gyeongsang provice. This restaurant, staying true to its roots, honours the traditions of authentic Jinju-style cuisine. Make sure you try Jinju bibimbap, with a mound of seasoned beef tartare on top of vegetables and rice. It is served in a brass bowl with a side of beef and turnip soup. Another popular dish is the noodle-free Joseon stir-fried vegetables tossed in mustard sauce.
4. Tom yum and dimsums for Rs 833 ($12)
Where: Jay Fai, Bangkok, Thailand
Jay Fai is a place that is popular with both taxi drivers and Mercedes owners. At the first glance it is hard to believe that this restaurant, with its bare-bones dining room, serves some of the best crab omelettes, curries, dry congee, and pàt kêe mow available in Thailand. The 70-year-owner uses copious amounts of seafood in every dish and makes the food using a distinct frying style that results in an almost oil-free dish. Don't forget to try the dry tom yum here.
5. Spanish set lunch menu for Rs 1,152 ($16.60)
Where: L'Antic Moli, El Castell, Spain
The name L'Antic Molí translates to "The Old Mill". The restaurant is a beautifully converted old mill which has been restored using a seamless blend of the old features with a striking modern look. The owner, Chef Vicent Guimerà, is a third generation chef and along with his teams presents immaculate dishes that reflect the slow food movement. If you're on a budget the Spanish set menu is a great way to taste some of the chef's creations.
6. A la carte dishes starting at Rs 1,250 ($18)
Where: Al’s Place, San Francisco, US
This bright, open, and cheerful restaurant on San Francisco's Valencia Street celebrates vegetables. They follow a mostly pescatarian philosophy but offer meat options on the side. The chef Aaron London makes these veggie dishes feel as luxurious and complex as meat offerings at any other place. No matter what dish you order, the menu is creative, colourful and lip-smackingly delicious.
7. A la carte British meal starting at Rs 1,465 ($21.10)
Where: The Coach, Marlow, UK
As the name suggests, Tom Kerridge's Coach is a laid back, no-bookings, bar-cum-eatery with a cosy atmosphere and adept staff. You'll find the bar in the centre with comfortable leather banquettes all around as music plays softly throughout. In the mornings, you'll find a menu of breakfast hot-dogs, kippers, and kedgeree while the full lunch and dinner menu includes small plates with meat and no meat options.
8. A Brazilian set lunch menu for Rs 1,556 ($22.40)
Where: Tuju, Sao Paolo, Brazil
Owned and run by Chef Ivan Ralston, this Michelin-starred restaurant focuses on local ingredients sourced from small producers, a quest for culinary discovery, and an impressive balance of flavours. The restaurant has been reviewed by some to showcase some of the city's most interesting cooking. The chef's mix of a thoughtful approach and great culinary skills bring a certain panache to each dish. If you're in Sao Paulo, this place is a must-visit.
9. Modern Nordic cuisine at Rs 1,930 ($27.80)
Where: Field, Prague, Czech Republic
This stylish yet understated restaurant is run by two friends who hero fresh produce. It has a warm and intimate feel and an inviting ambience. A menu that boasts of some of the best examples of Scandinavian cooking presents great pairings and freshly produced food items. This stunning place is cheaper than most other the Michelin-starred restaurants in Europe.
10. Modern Portuguese set menu at Rs 1,994 ($28.70)
Where: Antiqvvm, Porto, Portugal
Located inside a park in the city centre, next to the Museo Romántico, and with stunning views of River Douro, Antiqvvm is the perfect setting for a romantic lunch or dinner. The menu here is based on traditional and seasonal Portuguese cuisine. Coupled with a few international variations and a stunning attention to detail, it is a must visit spot in Porto.
Which delicious meal is next on your bucket list? Let us know in the comments! And if you've explored an offbeat destination's culinary delights, share your experience on Tripoto.
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