Apple Maps has its charm, and there’s a desire to fully embrace it. However, despite its smooth integration with iOS and visually appealing interface, Google Maps excels in certain crucial areas, particularly when it comes to locating dining options.

At first glance, searching for a restaurant on both Apple Maps and Google Maps seems identical: enter your query, browse the map for an appealing name, and tap on it for details. Apple Maps provides Yelp reviews that offer previews, yet selecting a review redirects users to the Yelp application. If the Yelp app isn’t installed, there’s a trip to the App Store for downloading it. In contrast, Google Maps hosts Google reviews that allow users to read them directly within the app—an intuitive touch that enhances user experience.

Discovering Michelin-Starred Dining on Apple Maps

Recently, Apple announced an update that introduces a new filter for searching restaurants distinguished by Michelin. The process is straightforward: after entering a search term like “restaurants,” users can scroll through filters beneath the search bar to select “Michelin Distinctions.” This feature enables searches for restaurants with one to three Michelin stars, as well as establishments recognized with a “Bib Gourmand” status, indicating value and quality without reaching star status, or a “Green Star” for sustainability.

However, despite expectations or potential technical difficulties, attempts to locate Michelin-starred restaurants yield no results. Searches come back empty, even in renowned dining cities like New York City, which is known to boast several Michelin-rated choices.

Assuming the rollout includes further compatibility across devices, this could transform how users locate exquisite dining options in various locales. For those seeking moderately priced yet exceptional restaurants, the Bib Gourmand category may be ideal. Conversely, if the aim is to experience a dining venue appearing in culinary documentaries, the “3 Star” filter could serve as an appropriate choice.

It’s worth noting that the Michelin search is not limited to dining; Apple Maps also facilitates searches for Michelin-rated hotels. Although historically, checking the Michelin guide before booking accommodations might not have been common, this feature could benefit users seeking distinguished lodging.

Apple Maps: Room for Improvement

While the ability to search for Michelin-acclaimed restaurants and hotels is a notable addition—a feature not yet available on Google Maps—this update does not elevate Apple Maps to the level of its competitor when it comes to casual dining searches. Many users are not primarily focused on fine dining; the everyday quest often is simply to find a quality restaurant that won’t empty their wallets.

Until Apple enhances in-app insights for restaurants shown in search results, many users will likely continue to favor Google Maps for dining-related queries.