Is it just me, or do you feel like the hotel stay is almost as exciting as the rest of the vacation? Just being somewhere where everything is taken care of–room service, cleaning, fresh towels– feels utterly luxurious.
You might already know about Michelin Star restaurants, but have you heard about the Michelin Key? Like its restaurant counterpart, the Michelin Key shines a spotlight on exceptional hotels. A hotel can earn One, Two, or Three Keys, with Three Keys representing an extraordinary stay.
The Michelin Guide lists 5,000 hotels worldwide, but the Michelin Key hotels stand out in five key areas: architecture and design, service quality, overall charm, value for money, and a special touch that enhances the guest experience. You’ll be surprised that within this list of best hotels in the United States, California has the most Key hotels in America, with seven out of ten from the list, while three make their home in New York City.
The Beverly Hills Hotel – Los Angeles, California
It’s no surprise to see the iconic Beverly Hills Hotel first on the list. Those famed pink walls, green banana leaf wallpaper, and lush gardens have been the backdrop for Hollywood royalty, global elites, and leisure travelers since 1912. Stepping past the famous sign, onto the red carpet, and into the grand lobby feels like entering a timeless world of luxury.
Famous visitors and guests range from Charlie Chaplin and Frank Sinatra to Kim Kardashian and Elton John. With 208 rooms, including 23 exclusive bungalows, this hotel has spent millions to blend historic charm with modern elegance, earning top Michelin Guide with Three Keys. Celebrate in style, surrounded by 12 acres of tropical paradise in the heart of Los Angeles.
Post Ranch Inn – Big Sur, California
The 2017 critically acclaimed Big Little Lies TV show starring Nicole Kidman introduced America to the breathtaking scenery of Big Sur, California. Central California may not have the fame of Los Angeles or San Francisco, but the stunning landscape is what makes the Post Ranch Inn unlike any other Three Key hotel. Perched high on the cliffs of Big Sur, the views and serenity here are simply unmatched—this place will stir your soul.
And if you ask me, it’s possibly the best spot in California to leave everything behind. There are treehouses nestled among redwoods and ocean rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows at the cliff’s edge. No TVs, just pure tranquility. It’s the ultimate California retreat. As Post Ranch Inn says, “Find your calm and so much more.”
SingleThread Inn – Sonoma County, California
Sonoma County’s wine region might be overshadowed by its more famous neighbor, Napa Valley, but bigger isn’t always better. SingleThread Inn, with just five rooms and suites, proves that intimate can be extraordinary. The Master Suite, a spacious 700 square feet, offers a living room, bedroom, private balcony, and kitchenette, along with views of the quaint shops of downtown Healdsburg. The Guest Rooms are equally charming, featuring 14-foot ceilings with redwood beams and exposed brick.
During your stay, you can indulge in a Hot Pot Donabe Dinner, a multi-course feast delivered right to your room. And don’t miss the main event—dining at the Japanese-inspired SingleThread Restaurant, where guests get exclusive booking privileges.
Hotel Bel-Air – Los Angeles, California
Hotel Bel-Air can be summed up in two words: romantic Mediterranean. With its rose-hued mission-style bungalows, this 12-acre estate is hidden behind bougainvillea, orange blossom, and lush ferns, with terracotta passageways leading to the elegant reception area just beyond a charming stone bridge. Built in 1946, this historical retreat became Hollywood’s exclusive paradise. Marilyn Monroe herself frequently stayed in rooms 133 and 33.
Whether indoors or out, Hotel Bel-Air offers intimate booths, private dining rooms, and elegant ballrooms equipped with the latest tech for seamless events. Culinary director Joe Garcia crafts Mediterranean-inspired dishes from the finest local ingredients. This is L.A. dining in its most stylish and relaxed Californian way.
Auberge du Soleil – Napa Valley, California
Auberge du Soleil keeps guests returning for its sun-kissed hillside setting among 33 acres of heritage olive and oak trees. Influenced by the South of France and steeped with California charm, the resort offers 50 luxurious guest rooms and suites. The experience is complete with a terraced pool deck, full-service spa, spacious fitness center, and facilities for tennis and yoga.
Executive Chef Robert Curry’s cuisine lives up to the Auberge’s legendary status, paired with a wine list boasting 15,000 bottles. It’s the ultimate escape for couples seeking relaxation and rejuvenation in Napa Valley—no wonder it’s a Three Key hotel.
Meadowood – Napa Valley, California
At Meadowood Napa Valley, you’re not just visiting—you’re joining the Napa Valley family. This 250-acre estate invites you to savor local bounty with a menu inspired by the region’s rich cultural and pastoral traditions with dishes that highlight fresh produce from Meadowood’s own gardens, plus a full wine list. The Terrace Café offers seasonal al fresco dining with shareable, light bites and handcrafted cocktails.
With a modest 36 suites and rooms, including the Hill House nestled into the hillside, you can experience the feeling of bringing the beautiful scenery indoors. The Meadowood Spa completes the escape, harmonizing nature and architecture for a truly tranquil retreat.
Canyon Ranch – Woodside, California
If you’re dreaming of the ultimate spa getaway, Canyon Ranch is a must-visit, just 30 minutes from San Francisco. This Bay Area retreat offers unlimited meals, snacks, access to the pool, fitness center, spa services, and exciting excursions. You can also upgrade to a treehouse room surrounded by redwoods, featuring a private deck and floor-to-ceiling windows.
Dining at The Hearth is a treat, complete with fire pits and blankets for chilly evenings. The Canyon Ranch Woodside staff will make sure you leave with new friends, and it’s no surprise that it’s earned Michelin’s Three Keys for an extraordinary stay.
Aman – New York City, New York
At first glance, you’ll think Aman New York is for those with deep pockets looking to stay out of the limelight. And it might just be.
It combines the city’s historic charm with Aman’s calm elegance, considering it is set in the iconic Crown Building in Midtown Manhattan. Here, you’ll find a lush year-round Garden Terrace, the expansive Aman Spa, and some of the city’s largest suites, including the Aman Suite with its Japanese minimalist style.
Casa Cipriani – New York City, New York
This Three-Key hotel is set in the historic Battery Maritime Building in Lower Manhattan, among the last remaining Beaux-Arts ferry terminals of the modern century. It has 47 rooms and suites with private balconies and breathtaking views of the Brooklyn Bridge and the Statue of Liberty. The Club’s dining options include the Living Room, Jazz Café, Pickering Room, and Restaurant, plus a romantic terrace with an overlooking view.
Is it worth it? With personalized butler service and curated experiences, whether you’re staying long or celebrating something special, you’ll have a truly memorable and effortless time.
Crosby Street Hotel – New York City, New York
Crosby Street Hotel in SoHo is worth a visit just to see Kit Kemp’s eclectic design featuring bold, brightly colored fabrics, unique furniture pieces, and whimsical art. The hotel has 86 unique rooms and suites spread over 11 floors, featuring luxurious Frette linens and stunning marble bathrooms with Miller Harris amenities. The Meadow Suite even has its own private terrace and garden.
They have a Drawing Room with an honor bar serving tea, snacks, and chilled wine. There’s also a stylish movie theater, a fully equipped gym, and chic event spaces.
Source: Michelin Guide
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