In this episode of the Vegans Explore Podcast, host Sean A. Russell explores the history and impact of the Michelin Star system and how it has shaped global dining for more than a century. Sean breaks down what each Star level means, why Michelin remains one of the most influential culinary authorities, and how Vegan and Vegetarian restaurants around the world are stepping into this prestigious spotlight. The episode features One Star Vegan restaurants from Zurich, London, Frankfurt, Berlin, and Seoul, as well as renowned Vegetarian Michelin-recognized kitchens. Listeners will discover how plant-based chefs are redefining fine dining with creativity, sustainability, and technical excellence.
Opening: What Are Michelin Stars?
- How the Michelin Guide evolved from a tire company travel booklet into a global dining authority
- What One, Two, and Three Stars actually mean
- Why anonymous and repeated reviews matter
- What makes Michelin recognition so powerful for Vegan cuisine
Segment 1: One-Star Vegan Restaurants Worldwide
- KLE (Zurich), Chef Zineb “Zizi” Hattab, multicultural Vegan tasting menus rooted in sustainability
- Plates London (UK), Chef Kirk Haworth, modern plant-forward tasting menus with classical technique
- Seven Swans (Frankfurt), fully Vegan, permaculture-driven dining in the narrowest building in the city
- Bonvivant (Berlin), seasonal, root-to-leaf dishes with strong values around diversity and community
- Légume (Seoul), Chef Sung Si-woo elevates Korean Vegan fine dining with original, expressive dishes
Closing Notes
- Vegan cuisine is proving itself as expressive, technical, innovative, and worthy of major culinary honors
- Your invitation to explore more Michelin-recognized plant-forward restaurants
- Encouragement to follow, subscribe, and support Vegans Explore
About the Show
The Vegans Explore Podcast is on a mission to record a new episode every day until November 1, 2026, spotlighting Vegan topics, changemakers, nonprofits, and brands from around the world. Explore additional episodes.
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