Inaugural Michelin Guide for American Great Lakes Ceremony to be Held in Detroit on April 21

This past spring, Michelin Guide announced the latest expansion of its well-respected family of restaurant guidebooks. The newly dubbed American Great Lakes region includes Cleveland, Detroit, Indianapolis, Milwaukee, Minneapolis and Pittsburgh.

This morning the Michelin Guide announced the location and date for the inaugural American Great Lakes Ceremony. The big event will take place on April 21 in Detroit, specifically Michigan Central.

“We are delighted to recognize and showcase the outstanding culinary talent found throughout the American Great Lakes for the very first time,” said Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the Michelin Guide. “Detroit’s storied history, innovative culinary talent and eclectic dining and cultural landscape makes it a fitting destination to host the inaugural ceremony for the region. Our anonymous Inspectors look forward to finally sharing their discoveries with the world.”

Already, the guide’s famous inspectors are on the ground in Cleveland, surreptitiously making reservations, and dining anonymously. When evaluating a meal, Michelin inspectors assess the quality of ingredients; mastery of flavor and cooking techniques; personality of the chef represented in the dining experience; harmony of the flavors; and consistency between visits. The stars, from one to three, famously translate to worth a stop, worth a detour, and worth a journey.

In addition to those illustrious stars, guides bestow other recognitions such as Bib Gourmand, Green Star, and other recommendations and honors.

“While we don’t know what restaurants will be honored with Michelin’s recognition, we know that Cleveland’s culinary scene will benefit from The Michelin Guide American Great Lakes edition,” David Gilbert, president & CEO of Destination Cleveland, stated at the time of the announcement. “As Destination Cleveland continues its work to attract visitors and strengthen perceptions of our city around the U.S. and the world, association with the Michelin Guide offers an opportunity to attract new travelers and boost local restaurants’ sales.”

Subscribe to CLE Bites, Doug Trattner’s weekly food newsletter.