SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) — One of San Diego’s most historic hotels has earned one of the hospitality industry’s highest accolades — a coveted MICHELIN Key — recognizing it as “a very special stay” in the 2025 MICHELIN Guide.
The MICHELIN Key, often described as the hotel counterpart to the MICHELIN Star for restaurants, was awarded to the reimagined Lafayette Hotel. This marks the second year of recognizing top-tier stays around the world, and the Lafayette was just one of 37 United States-based hotels to receive the designation in 2025 — and the only one in San Diego.
According to officials with MICHELIN Guide, the announcement was made during a global ceremony in Paris, France on Wednesday, Oct. 8.
Located in the popular North Park community, the Lafayette Hotel has long been a cultural landmark. Originally built in 1946 by young entrepreneur Larry Imig, the two-and-a-half-acre Colonial-style property was once a glamorous retreat for Hollywood icons like Frank Sinatra, Ava Gardner, Bob Hope, among others.
In 2023, the hotel reopened following a dramatic $31 million renovation led by CH Projects — the local hospitality group known for acclaimed dining and bar destinations including Morning Glory, Youngblood and Born & Raised. The reimagining of the Lafayette has drawn widespread praise for blending historical preservation with modern design.
Since its reopening the Lafayette has collected several honors, including Esquire’s 2024 “Hotel of the Year,” recognition from the 2024 Restaurant & Bar Design Awards, and multiple “Orchids” from the San Diego Architectural Foundation for excellence in interior design, lighting and historical preservation. It was also inducted into the Historic Hotels of America last year.
The MICHELIN Key recognition further cements the Lafayette’s standing as cornerstone of San Diego’s hospitality scene. For more information or to book a stay at the praised hotel, visit lafayettehotelsd.com.
To check out other 2025 MICHELIN Key recipients, visit guide.michelin.com.
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