The Michelin Guide announced its 2026 Texas selections on Thursday, and Fort Worth’s beloved Goldee’s Bar‑B‑Q earned its first Michelin star. The honor places the smoky‑scented joint among only three Texas restaurants to receive a new star this year, underscoring the city’s rising culinary stature.
Why Goldee’s stood out
Inspectors praised Goldee’s brisket for its tenderness and rich flavor, noting that the meat consistently delivers the depth of taste that defines great Texas barbecue. Other menu highlights singled out by the guide included the restaurant’s turkey, jalapeño‑cheddar sausage, potato salad, brisket‑studded beans, and a surprisingly decadent banana pudding.
Michelin’s own description noted that Goldee’s popularity often leads to hour‑long waits, a testament to the demand for authentic, high‑quality barbecue in the region.
What the star means for Fort Worth
Goldee’s promotion from the guide’s recommended list to a starred establishment brings the total number of Michelin‑starred restaurants in Texas to 19. The accolade not only celebrates the skill of Goldee’s team but also shines a spotlight on Fort Worth’s food scene, encouraging both locals and visitors to explore the city’s diverse dining options.
Other Texas newcomers to the 2026 guide include Fabrik, a plant‑based restaurant in Austin, and Kappo Kappo, an upscale Japanese venue also in Austin, each receiving a star. Dallas‑area eateries continued to perform strongly, with Mamani and Tatsu Dallas retaining their star status and Resident Taqueria earning a Bib Gourmand distinction for offering high‑quality food at a good value.
Beyond the stars: Bib Gourmand and recommended listings
The Bib Gourmand designation, which highlights restaurants that deliver excellent food at affordable prices, was awarded to six Texas establishments. Resident Taqueria in Dallas was the sole North Texas recipient, joining a roster that includes Cattleack Barbeque, Gemma, Một Hai Ba, Ngon Vietnamese Kitchen, and Nonna.
Michelin also expanded its recommended category, adding dozens of restaurants across Dallas, Fort Worth, Arlington, and McKinney. Notable additions include Jashan in Plano, Birrieria y Taqueria Cortez and Panther City BBQ in Fort Worth, and Smoke’N Ash BBQ in Arlington.
Michelin’s growing Texas presence
The 2026 guide lists 149 Texas restaurants representing 30 different cuisines, with 19 starred venues, 54 Bib Gourmand establishments, and 76 recommended eateries. This marks the third year of the Michelin Texas guide, which launched in 2024 and has quickly become a benchmark for culinary excellence in the Lone Star State.
International director Gwendal Poullennec praised the state’s “standout year,” noting that anonymous inspectors have observed Texas chefs pushing boundaries and flourishing over the past three years.
Local impact and future outlook
For Fort Worth residents, the star adds a new point of pride and a potential boost to the local economy as food‑loving travelers flock to experience the city’s signature barbecue. Restaurateurs across the region can look to Goldee’s achievement as evidence that dedication to quality and tradition can earn national recognition.
As the guide continues to spotlight Texas talent, Fort Worth’s dining community is poised to benefit from increased visibility, tourism, and a heightened sense of culinary competition that encourages all establishments to strive for excellence.
Original reporting: Dallas TX News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
