Three-Star Restaurant

A Three-Star restaurant has good food, warm and skillful service and enjoyable décor. Guests at a Three-Star Restaurant can expect to find all of the characteristics for a Two-Star Restaurant, plus:

Restaurant Products

• Bottled water is available, including still and sparkling
• Glass wine selections include at least two reds and two whites; no "jug" wine
• The wine list includes a range of wines as related to theme of restaurant
• The beer selection includes a selection of imports and domestic specialty brews
•  The beverage selection includes brands related to the restaurant theme (i.e., specialty beer, cocktails, wines, soft drinks)
• The spirit selection includes a variety of premium labels
• Cappuccino, espresso and café latte are available and freshly prepared
• A variety of teas is available

Restaurant Facilities

• A comfortable area is provided for waiting and queuing
  
• Coat storage is available (guests do not have to keep at table)
  
• Host stand is well-organized, professional in presentation, and free of loose papers and internal memoranda exposed to guests
  
• Dining room has interesting décor.  All elements are in keeping with theme.
  
• Staff uniforms are of good quality; all materials are in good condition and not showing visible signs or wear or dirt
  
• No soiled dishes are observed stored at side stations in dining area 
  
• Dining tables are not situated in areas where waiting guests stand nearby
  
• Dining tables are not exposed to drafts from doorways or excessive kitchen traffic
  
• Clean cloth napkins used, of at least good poly/natural combination
  
• Tablecloth is used, or equivalently elegant/distinctive table top as related to atmosphere
  
• Menu presentation is elegant, no plastic or laminate; superior print quality or calligraphy 
  
• Tabletop items are tasteful and of appropriate level of quality and elegance as related to theme of restaurant
  
• Guest Restroom is easily accessible and in immaculate condition
   

Restaurant Service

• Staff is familiar with wine and beverage offerings and can be of assistance with selection or obtain assistance where necessary
  
• Staff can be of assistance explaining menu items or making recommendations
  
• Staff is conscious of service timing and avoids unnecessary delays in meal or rushing diners
  
• Staff is well-trained and technically competent in table service
  
• Service is pleasant and friendly throughout meal

Examples of Three-Star restaurants include:

Lucia's, Minneapolis MN
Vidalia, Washington DC
Union Square Cafe, New York NY
Peristyle, New Orleans LA
Coyote Café, Santa Fe NM

For information on the Four-Star Restaurant criteria see the next section.