Australia has received its first Michelin stars, marking a significant milestone for the country’s culinary scene. The inaugural Michelin Guide awards were announced for South Australia, with Magill Estate restaurant near Adelaide earning two stars. This marks the first time the prestigious Michelin Guide has recognized restaurants in Australia.

Magill Estate is located at Penfolds winery, famed for producing Grange Hermitage, a wine that has previously fetched more than £83,000 per bottle at auction. The restaurant’s chef and owner, Scott Huggins, was commended for his precise culinary technique showcased in a tasting menu featuring dishes such as sea urchin with mangetout and tarragon and lamb Wellington with kohlrabi. Huggins, who has experience working in Michelin-starred kitchens in Europe and Tokyo, described the achievement of two stars as a distinct milestone beyond simply working at such establishments.

Alongside Magill Estate, ten other restaurants in South Australia were awarded a single Michelin star, further highlighting the region’s evolving food culture. In addition, 16 establishments received the Bib Gourmand distinction, which recognizes high-quality dining at more moderate prices. The Michelin Guide’s international director, Gwendal Poullennec, praised South Australia for its diverse culinary offerings, noting the blend of European, Southeast Asian, and Japanese influences alongside native Australian ingredients such as quandong, lemon myrtle, and various local meats.

Efforts to introduce the Michelin Guide to Australia have been underway for several years. Initial contact was made in 2016, followed by a proposal two years ago requesting approximately £9 million over five years from Tourism Australia to expand coverage. However, talks did not progress, and consequently, only South Australia is included in this year’s guide. Prominent food hubs such as Melbourne and Sydney remain outside Michelin’s scope for now.

South Australia’s tourism board reportedly signed a lucrative deal to bring the Michelin Guide to the state, though negotiations to extend the guide’s presence nationally have stalled. Australia currently relies on its own restaurant rating system, the Australian Good Food Guide, which awards one to three chef hats rather than Michelin stars.

The introduction of Michelin stars in Australia is expected to raise the profile of the country’s food and wine industries and attract additional culinary tourism, particularly within South Australia, which continues to gain recognition for its vibrant and diverse dining scene.