Michelin Stars Explained

Everyone has seen familiar faces of smiling chefs on food network and in your favorite magazines such as food and wine. However, the pinnacle of recognition for any chef is to be awarded one or more Michelin stars from the worldwide Michelin Guide and restaurant review.

The Michelin Red Guide is a comprehensive collection of annual guidebooks that focuses on European –and recently American – food and lodging establishments in various cities. Being the longest running review handbook in the world its recognition and star of approval have been what hospitality professional’s dream of. Michelin also produces an annual travel and tourism guide as well.

The Michelin guide has more information packed in it than any other guidebook in the world. It utilizes a comprehensive collection of icons and pictures to depict various classifications and properties of each establishment.

Someone f the best features of the guide is the fact that Michelin does not and will not accept donations or charge for admittance to their guide. Far too many travel guides are unfairly biased into giving good reviews by rewarding hotels and restaurants. However Michelin strives to maintain neutrality and honesty in all their reviews. One of the best things about the Michelin guide is that it’s updated. If Theresa good review from Michelin about a restaurant and it suddenly turns downhill, that restaurant inst going to continue to get recognition from them fro long, in fact Michelin guarantees that their representatives personally and anonymously visit every establishment in their guide at least once every 18 months to ensure that their rating is accurate and up to date.

The type of rating that an establishment will receive is based on a variety of factors:

The quality of the raw products
Overall quality of culinary techniques and flavor
The originality of the cuisine being offered
The overall theme of the restaurant
consistency between reviews
Bang for the buck – is the meal worth the price?

The Michelin ranking system is broken down into three categories

(One Star): A one star Michelin restaurant doesn’t mean they come in last place! Remember, having just 1 Michelin star rating is something that 90% of all restaurants couldnt even hope to achieve. 1 Michelin star usually means you’ll be getting a very nice meal for a reasonable price.

(Two Stars): Two star restaurants are some of the places you will see TV celebrity Chefs, highly polished and inspired dishes, and lot of originality. These are typically restaurants that are worth a detour while traveling

(Three Stars): Simply put, three star Michelin restaurants are the finest ding establishments in the world hands down. Typically you could be looking at well over $200 per person for a meal, and it’s almost always more than with the high price. These restaurants are run by chefs that are redefining cuisine in their areas and are the mentors of even the most popular chefs you see on TV. If you go to a three sat Michelin restaurant be prepared for a one of the most awe-inspiring culinary experiences of your life.