Le Jardinier Blooms with Michelin Star, Making History at MFAH as Texas’ First Michelin-Starred Museum Restaurant

A portrait of Executive Chef Felipe Botero and Culinary Director Alain Verzeroli, photographed by Alex Montoya.

In a landmark moment for Texas’ culinary scene, Le Jardinier at the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston (MFAH) has been awarded a coveted Michelin star in the state's inaugural guide. The recognition positions MFAH as only the second American museum to house a Michelin-starred restaurant, marking a significant milestone in the convergence of fine art and haute cuisine.

Nestled within the Nancy and Rich Kinder Building, Le Jardinier exemplifies The Bastion Collection's sophisticated approach to modern gastronomy. Under the masterful direction of Culinary Director Alain Verzeroli, a protégé of legendary Joël Robuchon, and the dynamic leadership of Executive Chef Felipe Botero, the restaurant has elevated Houston's dining scene through its celebration of seasonal ingredients and refined French technique.

Le Jardinier’s architectural design beautifully complements its culinary artistry. Designed by Steven Harris Architects, the space features vintage limba wood walls and Noguchi’s ethereal Akari lanterns, setting a harmonious stage for the dining experience. A commissioned tapestry by Houston artist Trenton Doyle Hancock, titled "Color Flash for Char and Chew, Paris Texas in Seventy-Two," serves as a visual reflection of the restaurant's seasonal philosophy.

As Botero notes, “Recognition in the Michelin Guide is one of the greatest accolades for any chef and restaurant, and is a testament to the hard work and creativity exhibited by our team,” a sentiment echoed by Gary Tinterow, MFAH Director, who adds, “The awarding of one Michelin star is superb recognition of the unrivaled dining experience provided by Chef Alain Verzeroli and Chef Felipe Botero’s artistic approach to simple, fresh ingredients combined with the stunning setting of the Nancy and Rich Kinder Building and its incomparable art.”

This Michelin star adds to The Bastion Collection’s portfolio of ten stars across its global locations, including acclaimed restaurants in New York, Miami, and Geneva. This achievement further solidifies Houston's emerging status as a world-class dining destination and underscores the vital relationship between culinary excellence and visual expression.

As Le Jardinier joins an esteemed circle of museum restaurants worldwide to receive this honor— including The Modern at MoMA in New York, The Rijks at Amsterdam’s Rijksmuseum, and Nerua at the Guggenheim Bilbao—this recognition marks a milestone in the American cultural landscape. Amid transformation in the art world, museums are increasingly becoming epicenters of both artistic and culinary brilliance. For more information or to make reservations, please visit lejardinier-houston.com.