Celebrating the culinary excellence of Michelin.

A century after the first Michelin star was awarded, the symbol continues to hold its position as the "judge" of global cuisine, guiding culinary journeys across borders.

Michelin stars are a prestigious measure of global cuisine . Photo: Internet

Global icon

According to CNN , Michelin had a rather humble beginning, as 100 years ago, the brand was created with the sole purpose of… selling tires. In the 1900s, there were only a few thousand cars on the road throughout France because car ownership was still only for the wealthy. In the simple thinking of brothers Andre and Edouard Michelin – the owners of the Michelin tire manufacturing company – if cars were driven infrequently, the tires would wear less, meaning their market would be difficult to develop.

From that seemingly practical problem, an unexpected idea emerged: Instead of just selling tires, people should be encouraged to travel more, explore more, and go further. This story inevitably brings to mind the "giant" Coca-Cola behind the Oscar awards ceremony in the 1920s, encouraging people to go to the movies and drink more soda.

In 1900, the first Michelin Guide was published, providing maps, addresses of gas stations, repair shops, and useful rest stops along the way.

In 1926, the first Michelin stars were awarded to 46 restaurants in France, marking the beginning of the most intense competition in the history of world gastronomy. By 1931, the three-star system was officially established. Countless chefs dedicate their lives to pursuing these stars. Some see it as the pinnacle of their careers, while others consider it immense pressure, but no one can deny the powerful influence of Michelin.

This award is not only a prestigious measure of culinary art but also changes the way global tourism operates. Previously, people visited a city for its scenery, historical sites, or shopping; now, many are willing to fly halfway around the world just for a Michelin-starred restaurant.

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Interesting records

According to National Geographic, a century of development has created countless fascinating stories. What makes Michelin special is its ability to transform a small, obscure kitchen into a renowned destination. In Vonnas, France, the Georges Blanc restaurant still stands as a witness to Michelin history. It received its first star in 1929. Nearly a century later, it remains one of the oldest restaurants associated with this prestigious star system.

In 2024, El Califa de Leon in Mexico City surprised the culinary world by becoming the cheapest Michelin-starred restaurant. No fancy tables, no pristine white tablecloths, no elaborate service staff; diners eat standing at the counter with tacos costing only a few dollars. This success affirmed that Michelin is no longer the exclusive domain of luxurious restaurants. Prior to this, the global culinary world was surprised when a roadside noodle stall in Singapore earned a Michelin star. For the first time, humble street food stood alongside the most prestigious dishes on the planet.

Normally, it takes a restaurant many years to impress the Michelin judges. However, in 2021, just 20 days after opening, Behind restaurant in London (England) received the prestigious Michelin star, becoming one of the fastest-rising cases in history.

The "Michelin-star capital" is currently Tokyo (Japan), boasting the most Michelin-starred restaurants in the world, surpassing even Paris, the home of Michelin. This reflects the strong rise of Asia on the global culinary map.

Chef Paul Bocuse (France) is considered a Michelin legend. His restaurant near Lyon, bearing his name, has held three Michelin stars continuously for 55 years. In a competition where even a small mistake can cause a restaurant to drop in ranking, maintaining this top position for over half a century is an achievement that commands respect in the culinary world.

Michelin continues to write new chapters in its story. In 2020, Seven Swans in Frankfurt, Germany, became the first vegan restaurant to receive a Michelin star, demonstrating how the concept of "culinary excellence" is changing along with awareness of the environment and sustainable development.

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From opulent "culinary palaces" to humble street food stalls, Michelin proves that excellence doesn't depend on size, price, or location. The only thing Michelin has consistently pursued for the past 100 years is quality, identity, and experience. Perhaps that's why these small stars still hold the world's attention to this day.

On June 4th, the announcement ceremony for the latest Michelin Guide-selected eateries in Vietnam took place in Hanoi. This event brought together chefs, restaurant managers and owners, and industry experts to celebrate the achievements of Vietnam's vibrant culinary community. This marks the fourth time the Michelin Guide has been held in Vietnam, with selected establishments located in three major tourist cities: Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang.

Source: https://baodanang.vn/ton-vinh-tinh-hoa-am-thuc-cua-michelin-3339228.html