Michelin Guide Announces It's Heading To Atlanta For The First Time Ever

Michelin, the tire company famous for awarding prestigious stars to restaurants across the world, is moving into a new city: Atlanta, Georgia. The company announced in a press release that the Michelin Guide for the city will debut in the fall of 2023 and will include three components: restaurants that receive the classic Michelin Star or Stars, the Bib Gourmand choices, and Michelin Green Star awards. It will also spotlight other noteworthy restaurants. After the restaurant selection is announced, the Michelin Guide will release its recommendations for hotel stays in the Atlanta area, as well.

Atlanta has culinary pull in its own right. You can eat incredibly well in Atlanta, and the city can definitely stand side-by-side with other heavyweight destinations. Atlanta will be one of the few cities in the United States to have a published Michelin guide including Chicago, New York City, Washington D.C., San Francisco, and the greater Miami area. Michelin has also published broader guides for California, Florida, and Colorado. Atlanta has strong southern roots that have inspired chefs both with classic and modern takes. There is a focus on utilizing locally grown produce, and chefs often have a personal and symbiotic relationship with farmers. Additionally, Atlanta is becoming increasingly more diverse, and more than 26 different international communities are represented in established restaurants.

Michelin's process involves sending inconspicuous diners, called "anonymous inspectors" to dine at restaurants multiple times a year. The most prestigious award a restaurant can receive from the group is one to three Michelin Stars based on five criteria: "quality products; the harmony of flavors; the mastery of cooking techniques; the voice and personality of the chef as reflected in the cuisine; and consistency between each visit and throughout the menu."

Restaurants that receive a Bib Gourmand award have a focus on value. These establishments offer excellent quality at an affordable price point. These places may not be once-in-a-lifetime dining experiences, but they offer dependable and accessible options to diners. The Michelin Green Star is awarded to restaurants that are paving the way when it comes to sustainability and environmental awareness. Given the unique culture in Atlanta around urban farming and local foods, this will definitely be a highly anticipated category. Overall, the Atlanta Michelin guide will provide a comprehensive and expertly vetted compilation of all the foodie destinations that Atlanta has to offer, both high-brow and humble.