AAA Diamond Ratings for Restaurants

AAA Diamond ratings for restaurants represent a combination of the overall food, service, décor, and ambiance offered by the establishment. The Diamond ratings are assigned exclusively to establishments that meet members’ quality requirements — AAA Approved restaurants.

One Diamond

Establishments must meet basic requirements pertaining to management, cleanliness, and overall quality. The primary focus is providing wholesome, straightforward, familiar food at an economical price. Generally, the menu selection surrounds a specialty such as hamburgers, fried chicken, pizza, or tacos. Service is limited, in many instances self-service, and the surroundings are often utilitarian.

Two Diamond

Establishments offer enhanced food presentation, such as the use of common garnishes and dishware. Typically, the menu offers a wide selection featuring familiar favorites or home-style foods, often cooked to order and reasonably priced. The service is relaxed. The surroundings, while limited in scope, typically reflect a clear theme. All elements combine to provide a familiar, often family-oriented experience.

Three Diamond

Establishments often employ a professional chef and supporting staff of highly trained cooks. The menu is skillfully prepared and often reflects interpretations of the latest trends or a mastering of traditional cuisine. Typically, there are expanded offerings of beverages that complement the menu, such as international/regional wines, specialty beers, cocktails, and soft drinks. A professional dining room manager leads an efficient service staff. The service reflects some degree of refinement, such as reservations accepted, personal assistance, or the ability to adapt to the guest’s specific needs. The décor reflects the use of well-coordinated design mediums that provide a distinct theme and good comfort. Restaurants at this level convey an entry into fine dining and are often positioned as an adult-oriented experience.

Four Diamond

Establishments are geared to individuals in search of a distinctive fine-dining experience. Often orchestrated by an executive chef and an accomplished staff, menus reflect a high degree of creativity and complexity, using imaginative presentations to enhance high-quality, market-fresh ingredients. The proficient service staff demonstrates a strong desire to meet or exceed guest expectations. A wine steward is typically available to provide menu-specific knowledge. The ambiance is highly refined, comfortable, and well-coordinated, incorporating quality materials and a variety of upscale design enhancements to give a first-class impression. The overall dining experience is typically expensive.

Five Diamond

Establishments are renowned and consistently provide a world-class experience. This is “haute cuisine” at its best. Menus are cutting edge, using only the finest ingredients available. Food is prepared in a manner that is highly imaginative and unique. The combination of technique and ingredients is extraordinary, reflecting the impeccable artistry and awareness of highly-acclaimed chefs. A maître d’ leads an expert service staff that exceeds guest expectations by attending
to every detail in an effortless and unobtrusive manner.

Five Diamond Award Winners

Four Diamond Award Winners