Michelin Guide January 2026: 5 new Parisian restaurants join the guide

Feel like changing your habits in January? The Michelin Guide has put the spotlight on a number of new restaurants, and Paris is already buzzing with these freshly spotted addresses. To help you find your way around without getting lost, here’s a clear and useful rundown of the Parisian restaurants that are setting the tone for the start of the year.

Five Michelin-starred restaurants in January 2026

According to information relayed in January 2026, five addresses stand out on the red radar. They include Clos d’Astorg, Monsieur Dior by Yannick Alléno, Felini, Épopée and À L’Improviste. These Parisian eateries cover a wide range of styles, from the very couture to the lively quartier.

The arrondissement map speaks for itself: the 8e is home to Clos d’Astorg and Monsieur Dior, the 9th to Felini, the 11th to Épopée, and the 17th to À L’Improviste. What’s more, this network makes it easy to choose where to go. As a result, everyone can target a particular area and atmosphere.

What we know, without betraying what we know

The Michelin Guide doesn’t reveal everything, but its signal remains clear: meticulous address, regularity and culinary promise. These restaurants also seem to rely on seasonal produce and sound technique. However, the tone varies from one house to the next, fuelling curiosity.

“The capital adds tables that make you want to go out, without waiting for a special occasion.”

Monsieur Dior by Yannick Alléno plays an expected score: precision in sauces and an eye for detail, in a setting inspired by couture. The result is a chiselled experience, with fluid, calibrated service. For lovers of Parisian restaurants, this address ticks the “urban event” box.

Clos d’Astorg, Felini, Épopée and À L’Improviste each boast their own unique identity. What’s more, the spirit of “quartier” or “table d’auteur” can appeal depending on the mood of the day. In short, menus evolve, and it’s best to check for updates when booking.

• Book early, especially for evenings and weekends.
• Check opening days and lunchtime services.
• Notify us of allergies and constraints when booking.
• Calculate the travel time according to the chosen district.
• Adapt the budget to the current menu and wines.

Neighborhoods, atmospheres and access

The 8th district lends itself not only to formal get-togethers, but also to cultural outings. For example, dinner can follow a nearby exhibition or concert. On the other hand, the 11th and 9th invite you to take a more relaxed stroll, before or after dinner.

The 17th offers a more residential pace, useful for a less hurried evening. What’s more, it’s easy to get to via metro and bus, which reduces stress. So think about your return itinerary, especially if you’re dining late.

The ambience ranges from confident chic to contemporary conviviality. And you can choose to suit your mood: a special occasion, a quick lunch or a shared dinner. However, book ahead if you’re aiming for a first visit with no waiting.

Taking your place without stress

Anticipate requests for tables of two or four, which are often in demand at the start of the year. For example, the 7 and 9 p.m. slots in Parisian restaurants go quickly. In addition, a polite message about seating preferences can help.

Confirm the day before: it’s simple, and avoids misunderstandings. As a result, you secure your schedule and table time. In short, you can enjoy your meal on the spot, without having to chase after an empty chair.

To remember when choosing

Ask three questions: occasion, budget and neighborhood. For example, the gourmet couture of Monsieur Dior by Yannick Alléno will appeal to lovers of details. On the other hand, a more spontaneous dinner might take you to Felini, Épopée, Clos d’Astorg or À L’Improviste.

The date counts: the January 2026 launch attracts curious onlookers, resulting in lively demand. What’s more, seasonal menus can change from week to week. So stay flexible and ready for a little surprise on the plate.

These five names make up a useful panorama for starting the year at the table. The Parisian restaurants also offer a concrete itinerary, from the 8th to the 17th arrondissements. In short, let hunger decide: timing, appetite and neighborhood will make all the difference.

• Parisian restaurants