Think of Michelin-rated restaurants and images of elegant spaces, impeccable tasting menus and sky-high prices might spring to mind. A listing in the 1900-established Michelin guide, which began dishing out stars from one to three in the 1920s, is considered the highest accolade for restaurants – but some eateries go against the grain. From simple spaces in unlikely places to refreshingly affordable spots serving some of the world’s best food, these are the most surprising – and often cheapest – Michelin restaurants around the world.  

Click or scroll our gallery to discover the world’s most unusual Michelin restaurants, counting down to the biggest surprise of them all.

We’ve based our ranking on the most surprising factors of each restaurant, and on the opinions of our well-travelled (and well-fed) team. This list is unavoidably subjective.