The Michelin Star is a prestigious award that is presented to the very best restaurants in the world. It is widely considered to be the most coveted culinary award and is highly sought after by both chefs and diners alike.
The first Michelin Star was awarded to the renowned chef Auguste Escoffier in 1926. Escoffier was already a celebrated chef, having cooked for royalty in both France and England, and he had already established several of his own restaurants. He had also been credited with codifying French haute cuisine into what we know today.
Escoffier’s restaurant, La Maison Troisgros, was awarded the first Michelin Star in 1926. The restaurant was located in Roanne, France and had been open since 1924. At that time it was considered to be a very modern establishment with a focus on innovation and creativity in cooking.
The Michelin Guide was created by brothers Andre and Edouard Michelin as an incentive for motorists to travel more often. They hoped that this would increase sales of their famous tyres.
The guide listed restaurants across France, each receiving one to three stars depending on their quality.
The awarding of a Michelin star is not just about recognising excellence in cooking but also acknowledges establishments that are dedicated to providing an overall exceptional dining experience for their customers from start to finish. To retain their star-status it is essential that these standards are maintained over time.
Conclusion:
Auguste Escoffier’s restaurant La Maison Troisgros was awarded the first ever Michelin Star in 1926, making him one of the most celebrated chefs of his time and paving the way for others to receive this prestigious award too.