San Francisco’s Californios, led by chef and co-owner Val Cantú, receives a historic third Michelin star after an eight-year wait, according to reports. The designation marks the first time any Mexican restaurant worldwide achieves three Michelin stars, a milestone described by multiple outlets as notable for breaking with typical expectations about Mexican cuisine in fine-dining rankings. Cantú and his team are credited with reaching the top tier of Michelin’s evaluation standards over the years, supported by a staff reported to number about 40 people. One account highlights the restaurant’s “historic” status and frames the third star as a long-sought goal for the kitchen, while another focuses on the achievement itself: Californios now holds three Michelin stars, with the third star bringing the restaurant to the highest level recognized by Michelin Guide. The coverage presents the award as a recognition of the restaurant’s ongoing culinary performance and place within the global context of Michelin-starred dining.