The most read Vietnamese newspaper
Edition: International | Vietnamese
© Copyright 1997 VnExpress.net. All rights reserved.
Get VnExpress first in Google Search
See more of the news you trust. Make VnExpress a preferred source to prioritise our updates in your Google search results
At Sixpenny, one of Sydney's most popular restaurants, head chef Tony Schifilliti told ABC News the Michelin Guide is a topic of discussion among chefs.
"Anyone who works in this industry can tell you what Michelin is and how influential it is."
The Michelin Guide was first published in 1900 by French tyre manufacturers André and Édouard Michelin as a free guide to help motorists find fuel, repairs and places to eat while traveling.
It was not until 1926 that it began awarding stars to restaurants.
Michelin has expanded over the past two decades in the Asia-Pacific, with guides now in Japan (2007), Hong Kong (2008), Thailand (2017), Vietnam (2023), and the Philippines (2025).
Schifilliti believes a Michelin Guide could encourage chefs to stay in Australia rather than seek recognition overseas, while also shining a spotlight on regional and remote restaurants and raising Australia's culinary profile.
"I think we have a lot of great restaurants that are recognized within the country but in terms of the international scene, you know, we get overlooked."
 |
|
Sydney’s Quay restaurant is a fine-dining institution known for its views of the Harbor Bridge and Opera House. Photo courtesy of Quay Restaurant |
However, despite its benefits, there are barriers to Michelin’s arrival. The cost to launch and maintain a Michelin Guide in Australia would run into tens of millions of dollars, and would require funding from both federal and state tourism bodies.
Tourism Australia has been in talks with Michelin since 2016, but no agreement has been reached, according to Delicious.
Richard Robinson, a professor of employment studies at Northumbria University and former chef, points out that travelers who prioritize fine dining make up a small market, since many prefer farm visits and engagement with food producers.
Although Michelin has yet to announce plans for an Australian restaurant guide, a Michelin Guide representative said the company is focusing on launching its first Oceania edition in New Zealand in mid-2026.
