The Whet Palette Productions Michelin Guide

BREAKING: First Look at EMELINA, West Palm Beach’s New Cuban Chef’s Counter

When husband-and-wife chefs Osmel González and Camila Salazar open the doors to EMELINA next year, West Palm Beach will gain more than a restaurant. It will gain the vision of a reimagined Cuba. The question at the root of the concept: “What might Cuban food have become if it had been allowed to evolve without the constraints of communism—shaped instead by freedom of movement, global dialogue, creativity, and abundance.

by Brenda Popritkin

Tears, Triumphs & a New Northeast: Inside the MICHELIN Guide’s 2025 Reset

In the grand hall of the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts in Philadelphia this week, the MICHELIN Guide signaled a shift. With Philadelphia and Boston officially joining the “Northeast Cities” category, and a fresh star system already stirring commentary, this year’s ceremony felt like a pivot point in American dining. A night that surprised with emotion, warmth, and genuine connection.

by Brenda Popritkin

A Necessary Reset: MICHELIN Guide Drops Alinea, Masa, and Inn at Little Washington to Two Stars

The MICHELIN Guide has officially announced a major update ahead of its 2025 Northeast Cities Ceremony: Alinea (Chicago), Masa (New York City), and The Inn at Little Washington (Virginia) will each move from Three MICHELIN Stars to Two in the upcoming selection.

As someone who has covered the MICHELIN Guide for years, and has personally experienced over 350 MICHELIN stars across hundreds of dining rooms, I support this recalibration wholeheartedly.

It feels necessary, and refreshing.

S4 E69 Miami’s Culinary Glow-Up: Featuring GMCVB’s President & CEO David Whitaker

Miami’s dining glow-up continues. 🍽️ In this episode of The Whet Palette Podcast, I sit down with David Whitaker, President & CEO of the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau, to unpack how Michelin stars, James Beard wins, and local programs like Miami Spice have elevated the Magic City into North America’s #1 food destination.

Evelyn’s × Los Félix: A Night of Spirit and Storytelling at the Four Seasons Fort Lauderdale

Evelyn’s Fort Lauderdale hosted a remarkable dinner celebrating Día de los Muertos, designed by Espolón Tequila. Chefs Brandon Salomon and Sebastián Vargas crafted a vibrant menu with meticulously paired drinks. The evening highlighted collaboration and culture, culminating in a nostalgic dessert, showcasing the event’s impeccable hospitality and celebratory essence.

by Brenda Popritkin

An Itinerary of Stars: From Chicago’s James Beard Awards to Turin’s World’s 50 Best Restaurants

In June 2025, I journeyed from Chicago to Northern Italy, celebrating food culture. Starting with the James Beard Awards, enjoying three Michelin-starred dining, and culminating at the World’s 50 Best Ceremony. The experience deeply transformed me. Witnessing culinary excellence further enriched my travels and understanding of gastronomy.

by Brenda Popritkin

Gourmand Getaway: The Santini Family’s Three Michelin-Starred Legacy at Dal Pescatore

Hidden away in the quiet neighborhood of Runate, Lombardy, Dal Pescatore has long held a reputation as one of Italy’s most extraordinary dining destinations. Three Michelin stars consecutively since 1996? Quite the institution! The kind of place that gourmands rave about and admire. It is a beautiful family story set against the charming countryside, where generations of the Santini family have turned a humble riverside tavern into a temple of hospitality and grace.

by Brenda Popritkin

S4 E65 The Secret Star Life: A Former MICHELIN Guide Inspector Reflects

For 20 years, “P”, a Sicilian-born, Bronx-raised former MICHELIN Guide inspector lived a secret life, dining in the world’s top restaurants and deciding who earned (and lost) the Guide’s coveted stars. In this rare interview, she reveals insider stories, surprising truths, and answers your burning questions about the most mysterious job in food.

Gourmand Getaway: A Food Lover’s Detour to Miramonti l’Altro

Miramonti l’Altro, a two-Michelin-star restaurant in Concesio, Italy, offers a culinary journey with chef Philippe Léveillé at the forefront. Renowned for innovative dishes like “I wanted to be a tomato!” and classic risotto, it’s an unforgettable experience celebrating tradition and modernity. A must-visit destination for food enthusiasts.

BREAKING: Tambourine Room Welcomes New Chef After Michelin Star Win — A Familiar Miami Talent Steps In

The Miami culinary scene is evolving with Chef Logan McNeil taking over as Chef de Cuisine at the Tambourine Room, following Chef Timo Steubing’s departure. McNeil’s experience at Stubborn Seed positions him to infuse new flavors and artistry, ensuring the restaurant’s continued excellence and Michelin recognition in the South Florida fine dining landscape.