L.A. and Oakland Restaurants Make Michelin History in 2025

Somni, a West Hollywood restaurant led by chef Aitor Zabala, earned its third Michelin star, making it one of only 16 in the U.S., despite pandemic setbacks and high prices. The restaurant maintains a strict reservation system, refusing to bend for high-profile guests like Jeff Bezos, emphasizing fairness and exclusivity. Zabala highlights the challenges of running a fine dining establishment today, including rising costs and limited seating, but remains passionate about creating memorable culinary experiences.