Today, at a press conference held at the Golden 1 Center in the “host city” of Sacramento—the acclaimed Farm-to-Fork Capital of America—Michelin, Visit California and Visit Sacramento revealed an unprecedented expansion of the MICHELIN Guide, with the announcement of the MICHELIN Guide California 2019.
In addition to the previously covered San Francisco Bay Area and Wine Country, the new MICHELIN Guide California—the first regional guide of the United States—will include restaurants in greater Los Angeles, Monterey, Orange County, Sacramento, San Diego and Santa Barbara.
This great expansion recognizes California’s unique blend of laid-back sophistication and its leading role as a culinary powerhouse, a combination that attracts travelers from around the world seeking the tastes and experiences of relaxed luxury. A recent EY study on the impact of the MICHELIN Guide in San Francisco confirmed that the red guide is a trusted source for international tourists and directly contributes to a destination’s economy and food industry.
“With access to many of the world’s best farms, food producers and vineyards, California cuisine is respected worldwide, not only for the quality of its ingredients, but also due to the creativity displayed by its chefs,” says Gwendal Poullennec, international director of the MICHELIN Guides. “In addition, our inspectors have been impressed with the talent and innovation within the gastronomic community across the state. Michelin’s partnership combines Visit California’s strength in tourism with Michelin’s 120-plus years of experience in gastronomy.”
“California and Michelin are a perfect pairing, joining forces to show the world the innovation and breadth of the Golden State’s culinary landscape,” says Caroline Beteta, president and CEO of Visit California. “The diversity and abundance of dining opportunities here, including an unparalleled array of [international cuisines], women chefs and limitless agricultural bounty, sets California apart from any other destination in the world.”
“This event celebrates Sacramento’s rich agricultural history, bright culinary scene and focus on all things fresh and local,” says president and CEO of Visit Sacramento, Mike Testa. “Our hometown Golden 1 Center provides a perfect stage, as the arena sources 90% of its food and beverage from farmers, breweries and wineries within 150 miles. This exciting new guide affirms Sacramento’s status among the world’s great culinary destinations, a milestone worth celebrating among our community of cuisine.”
The 2019 star selection for the inaugural California Guide will be revealed during a special event scheduled in early June in Huntington Beach, with the Bib Gourmand selection announced a few days prior.
Stay tuned.
