Here, mapped out, are the French restaurants with three Michelin stars. Putting aside the question of the Guide's relevance and accuracy, a look at the establishments with the organization's highest ranking can be fascinating. Of the twenty-five in the category, some are considered among the best in the world, while others have been criticized for letting the pomp overshadow the food; some are destination restaurants in classic Michelin fashion (L'Arnsbourg, Gilles Goujon), while others are located in more metropolitan areas.
Some have managed to stay at the top while taking serious creative risks (L'Astrance, Pierre Gagnaire), while others either negotiate the old and new (Maison Pic) or simply stay in the past (Paul Bocuse). One thing is for sure: all of them are extremely expensive. Odds are you won't be able to try more than a few, but here's a look at 2011's peculiar, exceptional bunch.
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