In the digital age, electronic word of mouth (eWOM) plays a pivotal role in shaping consumer decisions, particularly in the high-end dining sector where Michelin stars serve as a hallmark of culinary excellence. This study investigates the impact of Michelin star awards on consumer feedback on Yelp, focusing on changes in sentiment and ratings across multiple dimensions of the dining experience—food, service, price, and ambiance. Utilizing a quantitative approach, the research analyzes Yelp review data from restaurants in the United States awarded Michelin stars, employing sentiment analysis and statistical methods to assess the post-award shifts in consumer feedback. The findings reveal that Michelin stars do not uniformly affect all restaurants; while higher-tier establishments generally experience stable or improved ratings, one-star restaurants often see a decline post-award. This study suggests that Michelin stars significantly enhance sentiments towards service quality and perceived value for money, particularly in higher-starred restaurants. Conversely, sentiments related to ambiance and food, although positive, show minimal changes directly attributable to the Michelin recognition. This study contributes to the understanding of the Michelin effect within the digital landscape of consumer feedback, highlighting the complex interplay between prestigious accolades and eWOM. The research underscores the importance of managing customer expectations in the aftermath of receiving a Michelin star, particularly concerning pricing and value perception. For future research, this study suggests the need for longitudinal analyses to capture long-term effects and recommends incorporating qualitative methods to delve deeper into consumer motivations and perceptions. The findings hold significant implications for restaurateurs, who must navigate the heightened expectations associated with Michelin recognition, and for academics, pointing to the evolving dynamics of consumer behavior in the realm of luxury dining.