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Kasama rises to two stars as Filipino cuisine takes a celebrated turn in Chicago

Lifestyle | Food

Kasama rises to two stars as Filipino cuisine takes a celebrated turn in Chicago

The Ukrainian Village restaurant joins the city's top-tier dining rooms after earning its second Michelin star

By Feliciano Rodriguez III

The interiors of Kasama (Photo from Michelin Guide)

The interiors of Kasama (Photo from Michelin Guide)

Kasama, long admired for its blend of Filipino flavors and modern technique, has reached a new milestone. Formerly a one-star restaurant, it earned its second Michelin star during the Michelin Guide Northeast Cities ceremony held on Nov. 18. The announcement marked a defining moment for the Filipino bakery-restaurant.

The upgrade places Kasama in rare company. It now stands alongside Ever and Oriole as one of Chicago’s two-star destinations. It also joins Alinea, which recently shifted from three stars to two, reshaping the hierarchy of the city’s fine-dining scene.

For chefs Tim Flores and Genie Kwon, the recognition affirms years of work refining a tasting menu that elevates Filipino traditions without losing their character. The new rating also broadens the visibility of Filipino cuisine in global guides, especially now that the Michelin Guide is now officially in the Philippines as well.

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