(Above) Trump International Hotel & Tower’s 16th floor restaurant, Sixteen, has earned two Michelin stars for the second consecutive year. Photo obtained from Trump Tower. Click on image to view larger version.

November 19, 2014 – The culinary world’s annual guide to the best dining options in the nation has recognized eleven restaurants in River North this year.

For the second year, Sixteen, on the 16th floor of Trump International Hotel & Tower, has earned two Michelin stars.

Three restaurants – Lobby at The Peninsula Hotel on East Superior Street, Naha and Topolobampo across North Clark Street from each other – received one star each. This was the second year Lobby has received a Michelin star.

Only two restaurants in the entire city – Alinea and Grace – received three stars and neither is in River North.

Seven River North restaurants did, however, receive Bib Gourmand recognition, what Michelin calls its “esteemed list of quality dining at a good value.”

At a Bib Gourmand restaurant, you can get two courses and a glass of wine or dessert for $40 or less, not counting tax and tip. Announced on November 5, the list includes…

Frontera Grill and Topolobampo are both owned by Rick Bayless, an American chef from Oklahoma who specializes in Mexican cuisine. He is the host of the PBS television series, Mexico: One Plate at a Time.

Anonymous, professional inspectors help Michelin Guide determine star ratings. First published in France in 1900, the Michelin Guide is considered by many to be an international benchmark in gourmet dining.

 Last year: Michelin Guide hands out stars in River North