Feld’s First Michelin Star
Chicago’s Ukrainian Village neighborhood has a new reason to celebrate. Feld, a farm‑to‑table restaurant that opened in 2024, earned its first Michelin star this November. The Michelin Guide also awarded Feld a Green Star, which recognizes restaurants committed to sustainability. According to CBS Chicago, Feld highlights ingredients sourced from within a four‑hour radius, with dishes prepared and plated in front of diners.
Chef Jacob Potashnick, a Chicago native, focuses on seasonal products and creative presentations. Diners might see asparagus served three different ways in one meal — raw with a cured lemon emulsion, tempura fried, and juiced alongside fresh cheese. This approach shows how a single ingredient can be experienced in multiple forms.
For Chicago’s food community, Feld’s recognition is reassuring. It demonstrates that new restaurants can break through quickly when they combine creativity with sustainability. Feld’s star adds depth to the city’s Michelin roster and reflects a growing interest in eco‑conscious dining.
Kasama’s Historic Two Stars
Kasama, also located in Ukrainian Village, made history by becoming the first Filipino restaurant in the world to earn a Michelin star in 2022. In 2025, it was elevated to two stars. The bakery and restaurant, run by husband‑and‑wife team Tim Flores and Genie Kwon, is known for long lines and inventive dishes. NBC Chicago reported that Kasama now joins Ever and Oriole as Chicago’s two‑star restaurants.
The recognition is significant for Filipino cuisine, which has often been underrepresented in fine dining. Kasama’s menu blends traditional flavors with modern techniques, offering dishes that resonate with both Filipino Americans and broader audiences.
During the ceremony, Genie Kwon accepted the award with emotion, while Tim Flores was represented by a cutout of his head. WTTW noted that Kasama’s journey reflects both personal dedication and cultural pride.
Chicago’s Changing Michelin Scene
The 2025 Michelin Guide brought shifts across Chicago’s fine dining scene. While Feld and Kasama gained recognition, Alinea — long considered the city’s flagship — was downgraded from three stars to two. This adjustment surprised many, but it also showed how Michelin continues to reassess restaurants based on current performance.
Chicago now has 20 Michelin‑starred restaurants, with Smyth holding three stars. The mix of established names and newcomers reflects the city’s dynamic food culture. As the Michelin Guide explained, Feld’s debut and Kasama’s promotion demonstrate “bold creativity and commitment to excellence”.
For diners, the changes offer reassurance that Chicago remains a destination for diverse culinary experiences. From avant‑garde tasting menus to Filipino comfort food, the city’s Michelin stars highlight a range of traditions and innovations.
