The Illustrious Michelin Guide Is Coming To Australia, But Not Where You Might Expect

Christmas has come early for foodie lovers. The Michelin Guide is coming to Australia for the very first time, and its chosen *drum roll please* South Australia to make its triumphant debut.

Launching in October, the inaugural restaurant selection of the Michelin Guide South Australia 2027 will put local restaurants in Adelaide and beyond under the same critical eye of those anonymous experts who award stars in culinary heavyweights such as Italy, France and Japan.  

It's no secret that South Australia offers some of the best food and drink in Australia (and even, the world). And now, the foodie crowd will get to acknowledge the region's fine array of restaurants, bars and cafes (not to mention its wine): something the new Michelin Guide hopes to bring to the world.

Image credit: Renée Ardon-Coppinger 

“South Australia offers an impressive diversity of culinary expressions within a single destination,” said Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the Michelin Guide. 

“The strength of its identity lies in the freedom chefs enjoy defining their own voice, guided by outstanding produce, a strong relationship to the land and a confident openness to global influences. Our inspectors were struck by the authenticity and personality of the region’s dining culture, and we are delighted to spotlight South Australia on the Michelin Guide stage.”

Image credit: Renée Ardon-Coppinger 

So, how does one become part of the Michelin Guide? Like the name suggest, the Michelin Guide was created in 1900 by the Michelin tire company to support the growth of automobile mobility, but has since evolved into an esteemed metric of gastronomic destinations for both international travellers and local foodies, highlighting the best culinary scenes, and promoting travel culture.

In South Australia, the restaurant selection will be made according to the guide’s tried and tested criteria based on the following five things: the quality of the ingredients; the mastery of cooking techniques; the harmony of flavours; the personality of the cuisine; and the consistency both over time and across the menu.

While the starring system is only one part of the process, it remains the most wellknown. One Michelin Star is awarded to restaurants for “high-quality cooking that is worth a stop,” two stars for “excellent cooking that is worth a detour,” and three stars for “exceptional cuisine that is worth a special journey.”

Image credit: Renée Ardon-Coppinger

The selection also includes the popular Bib Gourmand category, a distinction awarded to restaurants that provide good quality food at an affordable price (sign us up).

Supported by the government of South Australia, the new South Australian restaurant inclusions will be unveiled at a special event to be held in October this year. Until then, we'll be twiddling our fingers in impatient anticipation...