The beloved buffet chain — forced to close all 97 locations during COVID — is returning to its home state with a Fountain Valley location set to open in 2027, complete with every original recipe intact. For the millions of fans who mourned its loss, the wait is almost over.

Michelin just named 10 California restaurants worthy of a 'special journey' — its highest possible honor — including two first-time three-star winners in Los Angeles. From Thomas Keller's French Laundry to the newly crowned Somni, these kitchens represent the outer edge of American fine dining, with tasting menus running $298 to $500+ per person before wine.