Try Affordable Michelin-Starred Food in Asia in 2023 with this guide — from street food to fine dining, find an award-winning restaurant within your budget!
What does a Michelin-star food mean? In short, it means the food is damn good. To elaborate, it’s an institution awarding culinary excellence. These ratings are given by Michelin inspectors who are experts in the field of catering and hospitality, and their decisions are made after collective deliberation. The rating system uses a scale of one to three stars, with three stars being the highest honour.
In order to be awarded a Michelin star, qualifying restaurants/eateries are required to meet a set of requirements:
- Using quality products
- Mastery of flavour and cooking techniques
- Personality of the chef in the cuisine
- Value for money
- Consistency of food
Food lovers around the world know that Michelin-starred restaurants often come with a hefty price tag. While it’s true that these acclaimed restaurants are often associated with high prices and exclusivity, there are many hidden gems throughout Asia that offer affordable Michelin-star food at under $200 a meal.
These restaurants may not have the same luxurious décor or high-end ingredients as their more expensive counterparts, but they make up for it with their dedication to flavour, innovation, and skills honed from generations.
Without further ado, here is a list of affordable Michelin-starred restaurants in Asia — from Hong Kong, Bangkok, Tokyo, Taipei, and Seoul — that won’t break the bank!
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Hong Kong:
1. Ho Hung Kee
Image Credits: Hello Hong Kong
Ho Hung Kee is a one Michelin-starred noodle restaurant located in the bustling Causeway Bay district of Hong Kong. The restaurant is known for serving up traditional Cantonese dishes, including Wonton Noodles, Fish Ball Noodles, and Rice Rolls, that are cooked to perfection using high-quality ingredients. With reasonable prices starting from HKD50 (S$8.47) and generous portions, it offers great value for money.
Image Credits: TripAdvisor
Don’t miss the Signature Shrimp Wonton Noodles and the cosy atmosphere with traditional decor and an open kitchen. Overall, Ho Hung Kee is a great choice for those looking for delicious Cantonese food at affordable prices without compromising quality.
Opening Hours: Mondays to Sundays, 11 AM – 9 PM
Location: Hysan Place, Hennessy Rd, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong
Price: From HKD38 (S$6.43)
Affordable Michelin Food In Asia 2023: Find out more here
2. Pang’s Kitchen
Image credits: Open Rice
Pang’s Kitchen is a restaurant that specializes in home-style Cantonese cuisine. The restaurant is located in the trendy neighbourhood of Wanchai and is known for its delicious and authentic dishes that are cooked to perfection using high-quality ingredients. It earned its single Michelin star status in 2013.
One of the best things about Pang’s Kitchen is that the prices are very reasonable, especially considering its Michelin star status. Diners can enjoy a wide variety of dishes, including seafood, meat, and vegetable dishes, with prices ranging from HKD 60 to HKD 200 (S$10.16 to S$33.87). The portions are also generous, making it a great spot for sharing dishes with friends and family.
Image credits: Open Rice
When you’re at Pang’s Kitchen, you need to try the Steamed Crab with Egg White, which is a signature dish of the restaurant. The crab is steamed to perfection and served with a light and fluffy egg white sauce that complements the sweetness of the crab meat. Other popular dishes include Bamboo Clams, Sautéed Prawns with chili and garlic, and Pan-fried Beef with black pepper sauce.
Opening Hours: Mondays to Sundays, 11 AM – 11 PM
Location: 25號 Yik Yam St, Happy Valley, Hong Kong
Price: From HKD60 (S$10.16)
Affordable Michelin Food In Asia 2023: Find out more here
3. Kam’s Roast Goose
Image credits: Open Rice
Kam’s Roast Goose is a one Michelin-starred restaurant in Hong Kong that is renowned for its succulent roast goose. The restaurant has a long history, dating back to 1942 when it was originally founded by Mr. Kam Shui Fai. Today, Kam’s Roast Goose is still run by the Kam family, and the restaurant has become a must-visit spot for foodies in Hong Kong.
One of the best things about Kam’s Roast Goose is that the prices are very reasonable, especially for a Michelin-starred restaurant. A half portion of their signature roast goose costs around HKD 180 (S$30.49), and a full portion is around HKD 360 (S$60.98). They also offer a variety of other dishes, such as barbecued pork and soy sauce chicken, with prices ranging from HKD 80 to HKD 200 (S$13.55 to S$33.88).
The roast goose is the star of the show at Kam’s Roast Goose, and for good reason. The skin is crispy and flavorful, while the meat is tender and juicy. It’s no wonder that the restaurant has won numerous awards and accolades for its roast goose. Other popular dishes include Honey-glazed Barbecue Pork and Marinated Tofu.
Opening Hours: Mondays to Sundays, 11:30 AM – 9:30 PM
Location: 226號 Hennessy Rd, Wan Chai, Hong Kong
Price: From HKD 50 (S$8.47)
Affordable Michelin Food In Asia 2023: Find out more here
Bangkok:
4. Jay Fai
Image credits: Indulgent Eats
Jay Fai in Bangkok has gained international fame for its delicious and unique street-style Thai cuisine. The restaurant is run by the charismatic and talented Chef Jay Fai, who has become a local legend in Bangkok for her culinary skills and signature look of ski goggles and a beanie hat. If you’re a fan of Netflix’s “Street Food” series, you will know it’s a one Michelin-starred restaurant despite the location.
One of the things that makes Jay Fai so special is that the prices are still relatively affordable. Dishes range from around THB 400 to THB 1,000 (S$15.75 to S$39.37), and portions are generous. However, it’s worth noting that the prices are higher than your typical street food stall in Bangkok, but the quality of the food is well worth it.
Image credits: The World of Street Food
A must-try dish at Jay Fai is the Crab Omelette, which is a signature dish of the restaurant. The omelette is stuffed with succulent crab meat and served with a sweet and tangy chilli sauce. Other popular dishes include the Drunken Noodles and Stir-fried Crab with yellow chilli.
Opening Hours: Wednesdays to Saturdays, 9 AM – 9 PM (Closed on Mondays & Sundays)
Location: 327 Maha Chai Rd, Samran Rat, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand
Price: From THB 400 (S$15.75)
Affordable Michelin Food In Asia 2023: Find out more here
5. Methavalai Sorndaeng
Image credits: Klook
Methavalai Sorndaeng is a one Michelin-starred restaurant located in the heart of Bangkok’s old town area. It has been serving up traditional Thai cuisine since 1957 and has become a popular dining destination for both locals and tourists alike.
The prices at Methavalai Sorndaeng are reasonable for a Michelin-starred restaurant, with dishes ranging from around THB 150 to THB 500 (S$5.91 to S$19.69). The portions are generous, and the quality of the food is exceptional, making it a great value for the price.
Image credits: Klook
One of the standout dishes at Methavalai Sorndaeng is the Khao Chae, a traditional Thai dish made of rice soaked in jasmine-scented water and served with an array of savoury accompaniments such as shrimp paste, fried fish, and stuffed chilli peppers. This dish is only available during the summer months and is a must-try for those visiting Bangkok during that time.
Opening Hours: Mondays to Sundays, 10:30 AM – 10 PM
Location: 78/2 Ratchadamnoen Ave, Wat Bowon Niwet, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand
Price: From THB 150 (S$5.91)
*Note: Activity is not available on Klook
Affordable Michelin Food In Asia 2023: Find out more here
6. Suan Thip
Image credits: TripAdvisor
Located in the heart of Bangkok which offers an authentic Thai dining experience, Suan Thip is set in a beautiful garden that provides a serene atmosphere, making it a perfect escape from the busy city life. It can be said that this hidden spot is perfect for its one Michelin star status.
The prices at Suan Thip are reasonable, with dishes ranging from around THB 200 to THB 600 (S$7.87 to S$23.62). The portions are generous, and the food is of exceptional quality, making it a great value for money.
Image credits: TripAdvisor
One of the must-try dishes would be the Pad Thai Goong Sod, a stir-fried noodle dish with fresh prawns, bean sprouts, and peanuts. The dish is a classic Thai favourite and is cooked to perfection at Suan Thip. Another popular dish is the Gaeng Som Pla Kaphong, a spicy and sour soup with sea bass and fresh vegetables.
In addition to the delicious food, Suan Thip offers a traditional Thai dance performance every evening, adding to the cultural experience of the restaurant!
Opening Hours: Mondays to Sundays, 11 AM – 9 PM
Price: From THB 200 (S$7.87)
Affordable Michelin Food In Asia 2023: Find out more here
Tokyo:
7. Chukasoba Ginza Hachigou
Image credits: 5amramen
Chukasoba Ginza Hachigou in Tokyo specializes in Chinese-style ramen noodles. The restaurant has gained a reputation for serving some of the best one Michelin-star ramen in the city, and it’s a must-visit for any food lover. One thing to note is that the restaurant does not accept reservations, so it’s best to arrive early to avoid the long queues!
Image credits: Ramen Guide Japan
With affordable ramen bowls starting at around JPY 800 (S$8.35), you can try their signature dish — the Chuka Soba, a classic ramen noodle soup with roasted pork, bamboo shoots, and green onions. Another popular dish is the Spicy Tan Tan Men, made with minced pork and a sesame-based sauce.
Opening Hours: Mondays to Fridays, 11 AM – 4 PM (Closed on Saturdays & Sundays)
Location: 3 Chome-14-2 Ginza, Chuo City, Tokyo 104-0061, Japan
Price: From JPY 850 (S$8.35)
Affordable Michelin Food In Asia 2023: Find out more here
8. Torishiki
Image Credits: Eater NY
Torishiki in Tokyo is a one Michelin-starred restaurant known for its delicious yakitori, grilled skewers of chicken. Despite its relatively high prices starting at around JPY 10,000 (S$98.25), Torishiki offers top-quality ingredients and a unique dining experience that make it worth the price. The restaurant has only 12 seats, making for an intimate atmosphere.a
Image Credits: Miss.Neverfull
One of the most recommended options is the omakase course, where the chef selects dishes for you. The menu changes depending on the season, but standout dishes include succulent chicken wings, tender chicken liver, and flavorful Tsukune, a chicken meatball skewer. The preparation and presentation of each dish are meticulous, and the flavours are truly exceptional.
If you’re looking for a unique and unforgettable dining experience in Tokyo and are willing to spend a bit more, Torishiki is definitely worth considering since it is still relatively cheaper than your regular upscale Michelin-star restaurant.
Opening Hours: Tuesdays to Saturdays, 5 PM – 11 PM (Closed on Mon & Sun)
Location: 2 Chome-14-12 Kamiosaki, Shinagawa City, Tokyo 141-0021, Japan
Price: From JPY 10,000 (S$98.25)
Affordable Michelin Food In Asia 2023: Find out more here
Taipei:
9. Fujin Tree Taiwanese Cuisine & Champagne (Songshan)
Image Credits: Fujin Tree
Fujin Tree Taiwanese Cuisine & Champagne Songshan is a one Michelin-starred restaurant that serves authentic Taiwanese cuisine combined with a French dining experience. The ‘champagne’ in their name is due to their ingenious agenda of pairing French bubbly with Taiwanese cuisine. It was established at the end of 2014 and has since received many accolades and recognition from various media and critics.
Image Credits: Fujin Tree
Some of their signature dishes are Fried Bread Stick And Oysters With Garlic Sauce from 620 NTD (~S$26.80), Formosa Fried Rice Vermicelli from 480 NTD (~S$20.75), Crispy Egg Tofu at 520 NTD (~$S22.48), and Mullet Roe (aka bottarga) Fried Rice at 600 NTD (~$S25.95). One of their more expensive dishes is the Steep Seafood Platter, at 3,200 NTD (~S$138.30) which is a hearty lobster broth dish steeped with Chinese herbs.
Apart from good food and champagne, the aesthetics of the restaurant is also very inviting — with plenty of natural lighting and plant art installation by artist Lee Chi.
Overall, you can expect to spend about $30 per dish which is honestly a comfortable price tag for a Michelin-star restaurant.
Opening Hours: Mondays to Sundays, 12 PM – 10 PM. *Last order 8:30 PM
Location: (1) No. 17, Ln. 199, Dunhua N. Rd., Songshan Dist., Taipei City 105, Taiwan
Price: From 480 NTD (S$20.75)
Affordable Michelin Food In Asia 2023: Find out more here
10. Golden Formosa
Image Credits: Travel Taipei
Golden Formosa (金蓬萊) is a Michelin-starred restaurant that showcases the spirit and flavour of Taiwan. The restaurant has a long history of serving Taiwanese classics with a refined touch since the 1960s, using local ingredients and family recipes. Their quality, consistency, and ability to meld tradition with innovation have earned them the coveted Michelin star.
Image Credits: Travel Taipei
Among their signature best-sellers are dishes such as the Crispy Fried Spare Ribs (NTD $280, S$12.10) which are twice-fried for extra crispiness, the Fo Tiao Qiang tonic soup chicken-in-tripe, which is a delicacy that requires hours of preparation, and the Hot Pot with Rice Noodle and Spanish mackerel (NTD $1,480, S$64). The restaurant has a cosy and elegant atmosphere, with vintage photos and decorations. The price range varies quite a bit as seen above but you can expect to spend about $40 per person.
While the price might seem too elevated for local Taiwanese food, the pricing does reflect its Michelin-star status, showing an investment in quality, meticulous preparation, and a longstanding heritage of Taiwanese culinary knowledge. You can book a table online or by phone, and enjoy the spirit and flavour of Taiwan at Golden Formosa.
Opening Hours: Tuesdays to Fridays, 11:30 AM – 2:00 PM, 5:30 PM – 9 PM; Saturdays & Sundays, 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 5:30 PM – 9:30 PM. (Closed on Monday)
Location: 101 Tianmu East Road, Shilin District, Taipei, 111, Taiwan
Price: From S$40-S$50 per person
Affordable Michelin Food In Asia 2023: Find out more here
Seoul:
11. Zero Complex
Image Credits: Bosim
If you’re looking for a unique contemporary French dining experience in Seoul, you might want to try Zero Complex. This restaurant is run by chef Lee Chung-hu, who is in fact one of the youngest chefs in South Korea to helm a Michelin-star restaurant. He creates minimalist dishes focusing on the essence of single ingredients while incorporating French cuisine techniques. Many of the ingredients are sourced from the restaurant’s very own greenhouse, where he grows herbs and flowers and uses them to create the dishes.
Image Credits: Michelin Guide
To zero in on an ingredient, chef Lee Chung-hu chooses one item to highlight for each dish, such as asparagus, chocolate, or mushroom, and prepares it in different creative ways to bring out its natural flavour and texture.
Image Credits: Bosim
The restaurant has a simple, almost monotonous design with white tables and wooden furniture, to spotlight the food instead. It also has a natural wine list that features organic and biodynamic wines from around the world, which complement the food perfectly.
Their menu changes according to seasonality. Zero Complex lunch tasting menu starts at 120,000 KRW with 6 courses while their dinner menu starts at 180,000 KRW for 8 courses.
Opening Hours: 12 PM – 3 PM, 6 PM – 11 PM (last orders at 1:30 PM and 10 PM respectively). Closed Mondays & Sundays
Location: 3F, Piknic, 30, Toegye-ro 6 ga-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul
Price: From 120,000 KRW (S$120)
Affordable Michelin Food In Asia 2023: Find out more here
12. Soseoul Hannam
Image Credits: 韓国ウォーカー
There is plenty of authentic Korean food in Seoul but if you’re itching for something different, check out Soseoul Hannam, a modern Korean fusion establishment. Soseoul Hannam is a one Michelin-starred restaurant that offers a creative and minimalist take on Korean cuisine.
The chef’s, Eom Tae-cheol, philosophy is to fully convey the identity of Korean food while refining its style so tasters can rediscover familiarity with his creations. At Soseoul, you can expect ingredients that are familiar to the local palate, such as kelp, soybean paste, kimchi, and octopus. With a team of skilled chefs, these ingredients are elegantly transformed into some of their signature offerings like Kelp Chips, Rich Soybean Paste Stew, Sliced Raw Fish with Gomchwi (Fischer’s ragwort) and aged Kimchi, and Chargrilled Webfoot Octopus.
Image Credits: Fly with Moxie
It’s evident that the culinary creations at Soseoul pay homage to Korean cuisine by using local products and changing menus according to the best seasonal ingredients, they also utilise typical Korean cooking techniques like seasoned salads and braised dishes.
It also has an extensive wine list that features organic and biodynamic wines from around the world, which complement the food perfectly. But of course, keeping to the Korean spirit, they have a selection of traditional liquor pairings, allowing guests to embrace the full local experience.
Their prices are 85,000 KRW (~S$85) for a 7-course lunch meal and 150,000 KRW (~S$150) for a 9-course dinner. These are excluding taxes and additional costs for wine pairing etc.
Opening Hours: Tuesdays to Sundays, 12 PM – 3 PM, 6 PM – 10 PM (Closed on Mondays)
Location: 21-18, Hannam-dong, Hannam-Daero 20-Gil, Seoul, South Korea, 04419
Price: From 85,000 KRW (S$85)
Affordable Michelin Food In Asia 2023: Find out more here
Pack Your Appetites!
That wraps up our list of affordable Michelin-star eateries but the list may be subject to change as Michelin updates its stars annually and the restaurants can change their prices. To make even more savings, make sure to use your multi-currency YouTrip card to lock in the best exchange rates! Additionally, further stretch your dollar when you’re booking any experience through partners of YouTrip Perks, like Klook or Trip.com, as you stand to get cashback or discounts.
Some may doubt the quality of some of the restaurants in this list for their “low” price tag but what makes these affordable Michelin-starred restaurants even more special is that they often highlight local ingredients and flavours. Plus, they provide a window into the important culinary traditions and cultural heritage of the region, while also pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the kitchen. All of which is highly commendable, Michelin star or not.
At under $200 a meal, from street food to minimalist contemporary restaurants, these affordable Michelin-star places in Asia are highly exceptional in their own right.
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