North Carolina

Charlotte’s Counter- earns both a Michelin Star and a Green Star, the Guides announce

Counter- chef and owner Sam Hart raises a glass.
Counter- chef and owner Sam Hart raises a glass. CharlotteFive

As many had hoped, Charlotte is seeing Stars this year, with tasting restaurant Counter- bringing home both one Michelin Star and a Green Star.

The Michelin Guide announced its Star-winning restaurants on Monday via an emailed press release, ahead of its evening ceremony announcing the Michelin Guide American South at Greenville’s Peace Center.

Overall, the guide features 10 one Michelin Star restaurants and one Two Star restaurant, Emeril’s in New Orleans, the Michelin release said.

Asheville’s Luminosa also earned a Green Star for its commitment to sourcing local produce and supporting local farmers.

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Lang Van recognized

The Michelin Guide Inspectors gave 50 restaurants the Bib Gourmand distinction, including Charlotte’s Lang Van. This recognizes eateries for great food at a great value.

In addition, Michelin gave out four special awards, including one to Colleen Hughes of Supperland in Charlotte, who received a Michelin Exceptional Cocktails Award.

Colleen Hughes, bar director at Supperland, moved from New York to Charlotte and got a job working at Growler’s, where she started making connections in the local bar scene. This was before craft cocktails were as popular as they are now, so she had to search for knowledge.
Colleen Hughes, bar director at Supperland, moved from New York to Charlotte and got a job working at Growler’s, where she started making connections in the local bar scene. This was before craft cocktails were as popular as they are now, so she had to search for knowledge. Alex Cason CharlotteFive
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Recognition levels include Michelin Stars (ranked one through three stars); Bib Gourmand (which offer good quality food for a good value) and Michelin Green Stars (recognized for sustainability efforts).

The full selection was announced at a 7:15 p.m ceremony held at the Peace Center in Greenville, S.C. The event was livestreamed on YouTube.

The Guide, which also includes Recommended eateries in addition to Stars and Bib Gourmands, totals 228 restaurants spanning 44 cuisine types.

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This story was originally published November 3, 2025 at 1:52 PM with the headline "Charlotte’s Counter- earns both a Michelin Star and a Green Star, the Guides announce."

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Heidi Finley
The Charlotte Observer
Heidi Finley is a writer and editor for CharlotteFive and the Charlotte Observer. Outside of work, you will most likely find her in the suburbs driving kids around, volunteering and indulging in foodie pursuits. Support my work with a digital subscription
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