In the aftermath of Michelin's highly anticipated debut in Texas, one Dallas chef, John Tesar, is not holding back his thoughts. With a career spanning over 50 years in the industry, Tesar has experienced the highs and lows of the Michelin roller coaster, from earning a coveted star to the devastating loss of it. As he sets his sights on regaining that elusive accolade, Tesar offers a candid and insightful perspective on the state of the Dallas dining scene, the Michelin Guide's impact, and his plans to impress the inspectors in the future.

A Chef's Relentless Pursuit of Michelin Glory

Reinventing Himself for Michelin SuccessTesar's Michelin Journey: From Highs to LowsKnife & Spoon's Michelin Star: A Fleeting TriumphTesar's Determination to Reclaim His Michelin Star

Reinventing Himself for Michelin Success

John Tesar, a seasoned chef with a career spanning over five decades, is no stranger to the challenges of the restaurant industry. As he reflects on his journey, he acknowledges the inherent craziness that comes with this profession, stating, "You have to be a little bit crazy to get into the restaurant business." Tesar's own brand of "crazy" has been a driving force behind his success, propelling him through the highs and lows of his career.Despite the accolades and recognition he has received over the years, Tesar's restaurants have not always been able to secure the coveted Michelin stars. In 2024, neither his Dallas restaurant Knife nor his newest venture, Knife Italian, were included in the Michelin Guide Texas. This setback has only fueled Tesar's determination to reinvent himself and reclaim his rightful place in the Michelin pantheon.

Tesar's Michelin Journey: From Highs to Lows

Tesar's relationship with Michelin has been a rollercoaster ride, marked by both triumphs and defeats. In 2022, his seafood and steak restaurant Knife & Spoon in Orlando was awarded a Michelin star, a significant achievement that validated his culinary prowess. However, the joy was short-lived, as the restaurant subsequently lost its star – a devastating blow that Tesar is still grappling with.Undeterred by this setback, Tesar is now on a mission to make his Orlando restaurant better than ever, while also setting his sights on his 11-year-old Dallas steakhouse, Knife. He recognizes the need to keep up with the ever-evolving dining landscape, acknowledging that restaurants can quickly become outdated if they fail to adapt and challenge themselves.

Knife & Spoon's Michelin Star: A Fleeting Triumph

Tesar's experience with Knife & Spoon's Michelin star has been a bittersweet one. The achievement of earning that coveted accolade was a testament to his culinary prowess and the hard work of his team. However, the loss of the star has been a humbling experience, one that has only strengthened Tesar's resolve to regain his rightful place in the Michelin firmament.The Knife & Spoon story serves as a cautionary tale, a reminder that success in the restaurant industry is not a guarantee, even for the most accomplished chefs. Tesar's determination to reclaim his star in Orlando and earn new ones in Texas is a testament to his unwavering passion and his refusal to be defined by a single setback.

Tesar's Determination to Reclaim His Michelin Star

As Tesar looks to the future, his focus is laser-sharp: he wants his star back in Orlando, and he's determined to earn one or two Michelin stars for his restaurants in Texas. This drive is fueled by his belief that Michelin is the catalyst for his reinvention, a force that will push him to elevate his culinary offerings and deliver an exceptional dining experience to his customers.Tesar's plan to impress the Michelin inspectors involves a comprehensive overhaul of his Dallas restaurant, Knife. He intends to close the establishment for a few weeks in early 2025 to undergo a complete renovation, from hiring a new chef to revamping the menu and dining room. The goal is to create a dining experience that is worthy of Michelin's attention and, ultimately, their coveted stars.As Tesar navigates the ever-changing landscape of the Dallas dining scene, he remains steadfast in his belief that the city has the talent and potential to become a true culinary destination. With his unwavering determination and a relentless pursuit of excellence, Tesar is poised to lead the charge in elevating the city's dining reputation and securing its rightful place in the Michelin Guide.