In brief
For the first time, Australia now boasts Michelin stars, all awarded to restaurants in South Australia. Magill Estate Restaurant earned two stars while ten other venues earned one each, a move driven by a state government payment to Michelin inspectors. The announcement follows over a century of Michelin’s efforts to extend its guide to Australia. The state’s tourism minister argues the investment elevates Adelaide on the global culinary map. Among the new one‑star recipients are Arkhé, Aptos, and Botanic, showcasing the region’s diverse culinary talent.
Australia has finally earned Michelin’s coveted star rating, with 11 restaurants in South Australia being the only state to receive this distinction. The Magill Estate Restaurant in Adelaide earned two stars, while ten other venues received one each.
South Australia’s government paid for incognito inspectors to visit the state, according to ABC, which is why no spots have been recognised in other parts of the country. Tourism Minister Emily Bourke defended the investment, saying it is "enabling us to create a tourism destination and put us on the world map."
The move follows Michelin’s expansion into New Zealand, which became the first destination in Oceania to feature in the guide in July, agreeing to pay NZ$6.3m over three years for its inclusion.
Chef and owner Scott Huggins of Magill said he had "dreamt of working in Michelin star restaurants as a youngster" and that achieving two stars has been a life goal.
Michelin stars were introduced in 1926. One star recognises high‑quality cooking, two stars indicate excellent cooking worth a detour, and three stars are reserved for exceptional cuisine worth a special journey.
Two Michelin stars
- Magill Estate Restaurant, Rosslyn Park
One Michelin star
- Anvers Restaurant, Kangarilla
- Maxwell Restaurant, McLaren Vale
- Botanic, Adelaide
- Arkhé, Norwood
- Esmay, Adelaide
- Aurora at ILA, Adelaide
- Hentley Farm, Seppeltsfield
- LVN Restaurant at Bird in Hand, Woodside
- Aptos, Stirling
- Skillogalee Barrel House, Sevenhill
The guide includes more than 70 other South Australian restaurants, with some recognized through the Bib Gourmand category for good food at moderate prices.
