49 Taiwanese restaurants have been awarded stars in the latest Michelin Guide

At the recent event organized by Michelin company, The Michelin Guide 2024 took place in Taiwan and was launched on August 27. During the ceremony, Michelin stars were awarded to several outstanding restaurants in the country.

Three local restaurants were awarded the highest award of three Michelin stars, which represents the pinnacle of gastronomic quality. This means that these are establishments that offer exceptional cuisine, which are worth planning a special trip to enjoy.

Five other Taiwanese restaurants were also awarded two stars. Although this is not the highest award, these are still establishments that offer high-quality cuisine and are worth visiting.

Finally, 41 restaurants received one star, although it is the lowest level within the Michelin stars, there is a big difference between these and those establishments that do not have any stars.

The list included restaurants in Taipei, Taichung in central Taiwan and the southern city of Kaohsiung. Among the award-winning restaurants were Le Palais, Taïrroir in Taipei and JL Studio in Taichung, which maintained its position in the three-star category.

In addition, six establishments were awarded the Michelin Green Star. This was created to reward those places that practice sustainable practices and offer their customers dining experiences that combine culinary excellence with ecological commitment. These are EMBERS, Hosu, Little Tree Food (Da’an Street), Mountain and Sea House, Yangming Spring (Shilin) ​​in Taipei; and Thomas Chien in Kaohsiung.

On the other hand, those who watched the event were able to witness the presentation of other important awards organised by the company. The Young Chef Award, for example, was awarded to Chen Ting-yu of the newly selected restaurant huist in Taichung. According to the guide, Chen demonstrated creativity and strong skills in promoting Taiwan’s culinary scene and raising its image.

The Service Award went to Hsu Yun-shan of Taipei’s Ban Bo restaurant, with one star, for his impeccable, warm and attentive style when interacting with diners, the guide said.

The Sommelier Award was presented to Yoyo Tseng of the recently awarded Yuen Ji restaurant in Taichung. Tseng is known for his expertise in creating intriguing pairings and enhancing the flavours of traditional Taiwanese dishes with well-chosen combinations.

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At the press conference, Lin Kuo-shian, administrative vice minister of the Ministry of Transport and Communications, said that Taiwan’s unique geography is conducive to an abundance of culinary ingredients. Dishes made with a deep understanding of cooking and full use of these ingredients reflect a respect for the land, while demonstrating a sustainable combination of environment and innovations, he added.

Following the remarks by the administrative vice minister of the Ministry, Director-General of the Tourism Administration spoke. Chou Yung-hui said that the launch of the Michelin Guide is an important opportunity for the nation and its citizens to showcase Taiwanese cuisine to the world in the post-COVID-19 pandemic era. He added that the Administration will continue to work with its partners to promote Taiwanese cuisine. The idea is to continue to join forces with Taiwanese offices abroad to continue promoting Taiwanese cuisine and tourism throughout the year.

Why does a tire company rate restaurants?

The Michelin company was founded in 1889 in France. Although it is primarily known for manufacturing tyres, the creation of the Michelin Guide had an initial purpose closely related to its core business.

At the beginning of the 20th century, the company was looking to increase demand for automobiles, and therefore, tires. In 1900, brothers André and Édouard Michelin created the first Michelin Guide as a tool for drivers. The guide included maps, tips for vehicle maintenance, and most importantly, recommendations for hotels, auto repair shops, and restaurants along the routes of France.

The aim was to encourage drivers to travel more, which meant more tyre wear and therefore more sales for Michelin. Over time, restaurant recommendations became a central part of the guide, and in 1926, Michelin began awarding stars to distinguish the quality of dining establishments.

Thus, although Michelin is a company in the automotive sector, the rating of restaurants arose as a strategy to encourage road tourism and, in turn, promote the sale of tires. The Michelin Guide has become a world reference in gastronomy, with Michelin stars being one of the most coveted awards in the industry.