The Michelin Guide is known for being the preeminent source for defining the best restaurants in the world. Their high standards ensure that you will get a top-notch meal—especially if it's a three-star eatery—prepared by an innovative chef. But the culinary organization now wants to highlight kitchen masters in a new way: those who are practicing sustainability.
As the pandemic brought on an increased number of challenges in the restaurant industry, Michelin wanted to highlight chefs going above and beyond for sustainability, despite the challenges placed by the pandemic. And that was on top of providing an exceptional culinary experience. So, as Michelin Guide returned to award its 2021 Star recipients, it announced a brand-new distinction on sustainability: the Green Michelin Star.
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The Green Michelin Star will highlight chefs' who put sustainable gastronomy practices into the culinary experience for their curious guests. Plus, the honored chefs are known for their inspiring initiatives and methods that help to raise awareness of the importance of environmental issues. Plus, the entire ecosystem of a restaurant is taken into consideration. The team gathered information about the chefs' practices and their philosophy on sustainable gastronomy to make a decision. All the chefs chosen have establishments included in the Michelin Guide selection.
This new award first emerged in fall 2020 in North America, but it was a small distinction for select-starred California chefs. It has now become a standalone accolade. Kyle and Katina Connaughton of SingleThread, Dominique Crenn of Atelier Crenn, Matthew Kammerer of Harbor House Inn, Thomas Keller of The French Laundry, Nancy Silverton of Osteria Mozza, Michael Tusk of Quince, and Alice Waters of Chez Panisse were all recognized.
"The pandemic has underscored the importance of a local, sustainable food supply," Gwendal Poullennec, international director of the Michelin Guides, said at the time.
Along with the Green Star announcement, Michelin Guide is hosting a three-week "Still Serving" virtual series revealing the newest editions of restaurant selections in the United States. The coveted Bib Gourmand and Star awards will be announced during this time, and restaurants in the Plate category and special awards, such as Sommelier and Young Chef.
