You must be mistaken as Michelin Star award given to chefs, but actually Michelin Star is awarded to Restaurants. Let’s explore more about the Title of ‘Michelin,’ like why it is considered a prestigious award in the culinary arts. People often get confused between Michelin Star Chefs or Restaurants; in reality, only restaurants are awarded as Michelin Star Restaurants, not Chefs. Sounds intriguing?

Let’s delve into the blog and find out the factual information related to this Michelin Star:

Man only truly respects what he pays for – ‘Michelin Star’

Michelin Guide are a series of guide books that have been published by the French tyre company Michelin since 1900. Nearly 35,000 copies published and distributes as free edition related to information such as maps, tyre repair and replacement instructions, car mechanics listings, hotels, and petrol stations throughout France.

Later on, they noticed that their copies are being used to prop up a workbench. Based on the principle that “man only truly respects what he pays for”, it was a point where everything has changed and Michelin decided to charge for the Michelin guide. They also made changes including the listing restaurants by specific categories, adding hotel listings (initially only for Paris), and removing advertisements.

Anonymous Inspectors visit and review restaurants

Recognizing the growing popularity of the restaurant section, the brothers recruited a team of anonymous inspectors to visit and review restaurants.

One MICHELIN Star is awarded to restaurants using top quality ingredients, where dishes with distinct flavours are prepared to a consistently high standard.

Two MICHELIN Stars are awarded when the personality and talent of the chef are evident in their expertly crafted dishes; their food is refined and inspired.

Three MICHELIN Stars is our highest award, given for the superlative cooking of chefs at the peak of their profession; their cooking is elevated to an art form and some of their dishes are destined to become classics.

• : “A very good restaurant in its category” (Une très bonne table dans sa catégorie)
• : “Excellent cooking, worth a detour” (Table excellente, mérite un détour)
• : “Exceptional cuisine, worth a special journey” (Une des meilleures tables, vaut le voyage

There are currently no Michelin-starred restaurants in India because the Michelin Guide has not launched a specific guide for the country. However, Indian restaurants in other cities, such as Avatara Dubai (Dubai), Trèsind Studio (Dubai), Sema (New York City), and Quilon (London), have received Michelin stars for their excellence in Indian cuisine.

Why no Michelin Stars in India?

• No Official Guide: The primary reason is the absence of a dedicated Michelin Guide for India.
• Logistical and Strategic Interests: Michelin’s expansion depends on factors like tourism partnerships, market readiness, and logistics, rather than just the quality of Indian cuisine, according to NDTV.
• Cultural Differences: Some sources suggest that authentic Indian food and its traditional presentation format don’t always align with the Michelin Guide’s standards.

Meet the Chef Himanshu Saini

Chef Himanshu saini for the first time wins the three Michelin Star Award for the Trèsind Studio in Dubai, his fall 2024 menu includes:

• Kebab and Kebab Scarpetta: Inspired by the flavorful pan residue, served with paratha, evoking Delhi’s streets. Saini notes, “The scent and taste transport guests to Delhi. I’ve seen people moved to tears.”
• Pandan Kadhi, Parmesan Saaru, Shiso Khakra, Khandvi Ice Cream: Creative spins on regional dishes. Michelin praises Saini’s “limitless imagination,” highlighting his vibrant, reimagined Indian dishes.

What Michelin has to say about the first-ever three-star Indian restaurant

While no Indian restaurant has three stars yet, Michelin’s review of Trèsind Studio (two stars) offers insight: “This immersive Indian concept highlights Chef Himanshu Saini’s limitless creativity. The tasting menu showcases traditional dishes from various regions, reimagined into vibrant, flavoursome creations.” An inspector’s 18-course experience was described as perfectly paced, with a map of India introducing each course’s regional inspiration, blending theatrics with supreme technique and balanced spices.

Michelin Stars are awarded to restaurants, not chefs, but chefs play a crucial role in earning this prestigious recognition. Based on the Michelin Guide’s standards and insights from your blog content, here are targeted tips for chefs in India (or elsewhere) to position their restaurants for Michelin Star consideration:

10 Tips to earn the Michelin Star as a restaurant

1. Master Culinary Techniques with Consistency
   • Focus on precision and consistency in every dish. Michelin inspectors prioritize flawless execution using top-quality ingredients.
   • Hone skills in both traditional Indian and global cuisines to create dishes with distinct, refined flavors.
2. Source Premium, Sustainable Ingredients
   • Use the freshest, highest-quality ingredients, ideally sourced locally to showcase authenticity and sustainability.
   • Build relationships with farmers and suppliers to ensure a steady supply of top-tier produce, as Michelin emphasizes ingredient quality.
3. Develop a Unique Culinary Identity
   • Create a signature style that blends personal creativity with cultural heritage. Michelin values the chef’s personality in Two- and Three-Star restaurants.
   • Ensure dishes are visually appealing and innovative to stand out during inspections.
4. Elevate the Entire Dining Experience
   • Michelin inspectors evaluate ambiance, service, and overall experience, not just food. Train staff to deliver impeccable, warm hospitality.
   • Design a cohesive dining environment, from decor to plating that complements the cuisine.
5. Innovate While Respecting Tradition
   • Reinterpret classic dishes with modern techniques to create memorable, flavorful creations. Michelin rewards innovation that respects ingredients.
   • Balance bold spices with subtlety to align with Michelin’s preference for measured flavors.
6. Gain Global Exposure
   • Work in Michelin-starred kitchens abroad to understand their standards and expectations. This experience can refine techniques and broaden perspectives.
7. Advocate for a Michelin Guide in India
   • Since India lacks a Michelin Guide, engage with culinary communities, tourism boards, and media to highlight India’s dining potential.
   • Participate in global culinary events to draw Michelin’s attention to India’s vibrant food scene.
8. Focus on Consistency Across Inspections
   • Michelin inspectors visit multiple times anonymously. Ensure every service delivers the same high standard, from food to service.
   • Train your team to maintain excellence under pressure, as inspectors assess every detail, from flavor balance to presentation.
9. Craft a Memorable Tasting Menu
   • Create a multi-course tasting menu that tells a story, as seen in Trèsind Studio’s 18-course experience, which Michelin praised for its pacing and creativity.
   • Incorporate regional diversity, like showcasing dishes from different parts of India, to highlight culinary depth.
   • Ensure portions are balanced to avoid overwhelming diners, as noted in Michelin’s review of Trèsind Studio.
10. Stay Resilient and Patient
    • Earning a Michelin Star requires time, dedication, and resilience. Even without a guide in India, focus on building a reputation that attracts Michelin’s interest.
    • Continuously refine your craft, seek feedback, and adapt to evolving culinary trends while staying true to your vision.

The Path Forward

Until a Michelin Guide arrives in India, chefs can prepare by mastering their craft, innovating with tradition, and gaining global exposure. Restaurants like Trèsind Studio demonstrate that Indian cuisine can meet Michelin’s rigorous standards. By elevating Indian flavors and advocating for the country’s culinary potential, aspiring chefs can pave the way for future Michelin recognition. If you love cooking, the National Finishing and Cookery Institute (NFCI), established in 1990 as a pioneer in hospitality education, offers comprehensive programs across its 21 campuses throughout India.

From certificate courses in Bakery & Confectionery, Cookery, Indian & Tandoori Cooking, and Catering Management to diplomas in Hotel Management, NFCI teaches you from the basics to advanced levels under expert instructors. With a focus on practical skills, state-of-the-art facilities like training kitchens and bakeries, and strong placement support with top employers, NFCI equips you to start your own venture or excel in the global culinary world. To get more information about our courses; call us at +91-9888011222.