What is it?
The Michelin Guide is a series of annual guides published by Michelin for more than a dozen countries. The term usually refers to the Michelin Red Guide, the oldest and best known European hotel and restaurant guide, which awards Michelin stars. In Europe, quality gastronomy goes hand in hand with the Michelin Guide. The guide, recently renamed the Guide Rouge, is a respected institution among chefs, restaurateurs, culinary experts, and the foodie public. It was introduced in 1900 by the Michelin Tire Company and began primarily as a technical resource to help people travel. In the 1930s, she had become a tourist guide and has since been transformed into a food guide. The Guide Rouge sells around 1.2 million copies a year in eight countries. The Michelin star system in Europe is the most well-known and respected rating system for high-quality restaurants or haute cuisine.

What do they do?
A rigorously selected and trained team of inspectors visit Michelin recommended establishments and decide whether or not they will be included in the guide. Michelin wishes to emphasize the independence of the guide. Unlike some competitors’ versions, all meals and accommodation used by their inspectors are paid for in full by the Michelin organization. Michelin guarantees creativity and individuality within the restaurant industry and avoids standardization by NOT creating a written criterion on what constitutes the required level of quality for the various star levels. The Michelin Guide is also distinguished by its emphasis on consistency of quality and tradition.

How are restaurants rated?
Michelin star restaurants are developed and run by highly qualified chefs, often referred to as “celebrity chefs”. In Europe, the guide has a great influence on the choice of restaurants for gourmets and followers of haute cuisine. The guide awards one to three stars to a small number of excellent quality restaurants. It must be recognized that a 3-star Michelin rating is extremely rare: there are 26 “3-star” restaurants in France and only 81 in the world.

One Michelin star: A very good restaurant or pub in its category.

The star indicates a good place to stop on your journey.

Two Michelin stars: Excellent cuisine, worth a detour.

Top quality specialties and wines. This will be reflected in the price.

Three Michelin stars: Exceptional cuisine, worthy of a special trip

Fine wines, impeccable service, elegant surroundings. You will pay accordingly!

Regardless of your other rating in the guide, restaurants may also receive a series of symbols alongside their list.

1. Coins are issued to restaurants that serve a menu for a specified price or less. In France, the required price is currently € 16.50.

2. An interesting or magnificent view is offered to restaurants that offer dining with a view.

3. Grapes are given away to restaurants that serve a somewhat interesting assortment of wines.

The Michelin guide is now available on your iPhone so you can use it wherever you want, in France and in Europe.