Michelin arrives in Australia

Eleven South Australian restaurants have become the first in the nation to receive Michelin Guide stars at a ceremony at the Adelaide Convention Centre on Wednesday evening.

Magill Estate leads the way

Magill Estate Restaurant achieved a two-star rating, the single highest honour. Ten other venues received one-star ratings: Anvers Restaurant, Maxwell Restaurant, Botanic, Arkhé, Esmay, Aurora at ILA, Hentley Farm, LVN Restaurant at Bird In Hand…

A historic first for Michelin

Michelin Guide international director Gwendal Poullennec said: Tonight marks an historic milestone, the first time the Michelin Guide has recognised restaurants in Australia.

“Tonight marks an historic milestone, the first time the Michelin Guide has recognised restaurants in Australia.”

Magill Estate chef's dream realised

Magill Estate Restaurant chef Scott Huggins said achieving two stars was a dream come true.He noted the restaurant could have opened in France to pursue a Michelin star, but it came to South Australia instead.

“It's like buying a lottery ticket, just not knowing until the number's been read out how it's going to land.”

Broader recognition across the state

Seventy-seven different venues were recognised by Michelin in total. The winning restaurants come from across South Australia's premium produce districts, including McLaren Vale, the Adelaide Hills and the Barossa Valley.

Chefs celebrate the honour

Esmay chef Alanna Sapwell said the honour would fill her team with pride.Aptos chef Justin James likened the achievement to the Super Bowl and the Oscars.

Awards expected to transform the industry

Australian food industry advocate Mandy Hall said achieving a Michelin star was life-changing. SA Premier Peter Malinauskas described the recognition as worth its weight in gold and a special night for Australia's hospitality industry.

“life-changing, there's no question”