Cleveland joins Michelin restaurant guide
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The world's preeminent food reviewer is adding Cleveland to its guide.
Why it matters: Cleveland's food scene continues to turn heads and notch accolades, and a Michelin star would fully legitimize it.
Driving the news: Michelin recently announced it will produce a Michelin Guide for the Great Lakes Region, adding six new cities.
- Cleveland is joined by Detroit, Indianapolis, Milwaukee, Minneapolis and Pittsburgh.
Context: The French tire company has been producing food guides since 1900. It ranks restaurants on a three-star system, and receiving stars has become arguably the most sought-after prize in the food industry.
What they're saying: "We are excited to finally be putting a stake in the ground in the Great Lakes region, spotlighting the talent and food cultures across these six great cities," the Michelin Guide's international director, Gwendal Poullennec, said in a statement.
- "Our anonymous Inspectors have begun canvassing these cities for impressive culinary talent and are eager to share their experiences with you in the inaugural selection next year."
Between the lines: When the Michelin Guide expanded into the South region, cities and states agreed to collectively pay $1.65 million annually to be included, according to Axios New Orleans.
- A similar agreement preceded the Great Lakes expansion, Destination Cleveland spokesperson Jennifer Brasdovich tells Axios. Destination Cleveland is providing funding along with groups in the other cities.
By the numbers: The annual $150,000 investment "supports marketing and promotional efforts related to the establishment of the new Michelin Guide and its selections in this new market," she says.
What's next: Restaurants for the Great Lakes regional guide will be revealed in 2027 at a ceremony.