Full Breakdown
Joshua Fyksen Sets New Record by Dining at 28 Michelin-Star Restaurants in 24 Hours
3/29/2026, 12:57:20 AM
Record-Breaking Culinary Journey
On March 9, 2025, Joshua Fyksen, a sommelier from Las Vegas, achieved a Guinness World Record by dining at 28 Michelin-star restaurants in New York City within a 24-hour period. This feat surpassed his previous record of 22 restaurants set in 2023 and broke the record of 25 held by Indian food enthusiasts Sujoy Kumar Mitra and Rajnish Kumar Tripathi, who accomplished their challenge in Hong Kong in 2024. Fyksen began his culinary journey at Oxomoco in Brooklyn and concluded at Gramercy Tavern in Manhattan the following day.
Planning and Execution
To successfully navigate this ambitious challenge, Fyksen meticulously researched all 72 Michelin-starred restaurants in New York City to devise an efficient route. He noted that many establishments offer prix-fixe menus, which required him to contact several restaurants in advance to request exceptions for a quicker dining experience. Some restaurants agreed to accommodate him, even opening early to facilitate his record attempt.
Financial Breakdown
The total cost of Fyksen's record-setting dining experience amounted to $1,451.34, which included $976.97 for food and an additional $474.37 for transportation between venues. Despite the significant expense, Fyksen expressed satisfaction with the culinary highlights of his journey, which included dishes such as the Jonah crab salad with apple and wasabi at Le Pavillon, scallop dumplings with English peas and foie gras at Tuome, and tortellini pomodoro at Torrisi.
Official Statements & Responses
Fyksen reflected on his experience, stating, “Honestly, there wasn't a single dish I didn't enjoy this time around.” He also humorously acknowledged the financial aspect, saying, “I can't even imagine the total cost -- including the trip -- or maybe I prefer not to.” His father’s encouragement played a role in his decision to attempt the record again, emphasizing the pride and bragging rights associated with such an achievement.
Criticism & Opposition
While Fyksen's record-breaking attempt has been celebrated by many food enthusiasts, some critics argue that such challenges may promote excessive consumption and waste in the culinary industry. Concerns have been raised about the sustainability of dining at multiple high-end establishments in a single day, particularly in the context of food waste and the environmental impact of transportation.
Verbatim Quotes
- “But the food alone cost $976.97, plus tips. Transportation between restaurants was another $474.37.” — Joshua Fyksen, Sommelier
- “Honestly, there wasn't a single dish I didn't enjoy this time around.” — Joshua Fyksen, Sommelier
Fyksen's achievement not only highlights his dedication to culinary exploration but also raises questions about the implications of such record-setting endeavors in the broader context of food culture and sustainability.
