JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Three Jacksonville restaurants received official recognition Wednesday from the Michelin Guide, the internationally acclaimed dining authority, in a ceremony that city leaders say signals a turning point for a culinary scene that has long been overlooked.
Visit Jacksonville and Mayor Donna Deegan will present Michelin recognition placards to the owners and chefs of Eggboy, Rue Saint Marc and The Bearded Pig at Jacksonville City Hall.
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The recognition carries particular weight given Jacksonville’s recent reputation. A June 2025 study by financial advisory company FinanceBuzz ranked Jacksonville as the most boring city in America out of 75 major cities, citing its culinary scene as one of its weakest categories. The study found that 54% of all restaurants in Jacksonville are chains — tied for the fourth-highest rate in the country.
The Michelin Guide, originally published in France in 1900, is considered one of the most prestigious restaurant rating systems in the world. A listing in the guide — even without a coveted star — places a restaurant among a select group recognized for quality, consistency and culinary distinction.
Eggboy is co-founded by Nicholas Presti and Zachary Presti, with Raymond Johnston serving as head chef. Rue Saint Marc is led by Executive Chef and Proprietor Scott Alters and Beverage Director Gaby Alters. The Bearded Pig is co-founded by Chad Munsey and Michael Schmidt.