Australia gets its first Michelin stars

Michelin doesn't come and review restaurants out of the goodness of its heart.

The South Australian Government decided to splash the cash on joining the Michelin Guide family and now that state is the first in Australia to feature.

The newly released Michelin Guide South Australia 2027 recognises 77 restaurants "honouring their craft, creativity and distinct sense of place".

After months of anonymous inspections, Michelin has awarded two stars to Adelaide's Penfolds Magill Estate Restaurant, led by Chef Scott Huggins.

Anvers Restaurant, Aptos, arkhé, Aurora at ILA, Skillogalee Barrel House, Botanic, Esmay, Hentley Farm, LVN Restaurant at Bird in Hand, and Maxwell Restaurant have each received one Michelin star.

Beyond the stars, 16 restaurants have earned a Bib Gourmand for good food at great value, and 50 more restaurants join the Guide as "Michelin Selected".

"South Australia's debut has been very impressive," says Gwendal Poullennec, international director of the Michelin guide, wholly predictably.

"What struck our Inspectors was the sheer diversity on display - European, south-east Asian and Japanese traditions sitting naturally alongside native ingredients such as quandong, lemon myrtle and native Australian meats, never as novelty, but as an honest expression of place.

"From Adelaide's easy-going dining rooms to the restaurants within wineries of the Barossa Valley, McLaren Vale, Clare Valley and Adelaide Hills, fire is the thread that runs through it all. It is a food culture unburdened by rigid tradition - technically refined yet relaxed, generous and unmistakably South Australian in its warmth."

The results were particularly applauded in the Adelaide Hills with eight winery dining venues receiving accolades - more than any other wine region.

“Having eight winery dining venues recognised by the Michelin Guide is an outstanding achievement for the Adelaide Hills and a testament to the quality and ambition of our region’s wine and food offering," said Adelaide Hills Wine Region president Alex Trescowthick.

“Our wineries are about so much more than what’s in the glass. They offer visitors memorable experiences that bring together exceptional wines, seasonal local produce, beautiful settings and genuine hospitality."

The full Michelin Guide South Australia 2027 restaurant selection is available on the website and app. 

It will be interesting to gauge ROI for South Australia and see whether other states follow.