Australia has received its first Michelin stars, with 11 restaurants in South Australia earning the distinction. Magill Estate Restaurant in Adelaide was the sole recipient of two stars, while 10 other establishments each received one star.
The recognition followed the South Australian government’s funding of incognito inspectors to evaluate the state’s dining scene, which is why the accolades are limited to this region rather than distributed nationally.
Scott Huggins, chef and owner of Magill Estate, described the achievement as a lifelong dream. Having trained in Michelin-starred venues across Europe and Japan, Huggins noted the distinction between simply working for a star and earning one, let alone two.
The announcement marks over a century since the Michelin Guide’s inception in France, following years of unsuccessful efforts to bring the guide to Australia. Michelin had previously courted the national tourism board, but the state chose to pursue its own partnership.
Tourism Minister Emily Bourke defended the government’s investment, stating it helps position South Australia as a global culinary destination. “It is enabling us to create a tourism destination and put us on the world map,” she said.
This development follows Michelin’s recent expansion into New Zealand, which became the first Oceania destination featured in the guide in July, committing NZ$6.3 million over three years for inclusion.