The question of why India lacks a Michelin Guide often arises in discussions among food enthusiasts. It’s a valid question, but the answer lies in understanding the Michelin Guide’s purpose and scope.
The Michelin Guide, initially conceived by the French tire company Michelin, aimed to provide motorists with recommendations for places to eat and stay along their routes. The guide started by listing the best restaurants across France, awarding stars to signify quality.
- One star indicated a very good restaurant.
- Two stars meant the food was worth a detour.
- Three stars signified exceptional cuisine, justifying a special trip.
These stars quickly became a coveted symbol of culinary excellence, influencing chefs and diners alike. As the guide’s popularity grew, Michelin expanded its coverage to other European countries, followed by the United States and, more recently, Asia, including Japan, Hong Kong, Singapore, and Thailand.
Michelin’s evolution has seen the guides transform into comprehensive foodie handbooks with detailed restaurant descriptions, catering to a broader audience. The release of each guide now generates significant media attention, highlighting both the winners and losers in the star race.
However, a fundamental prerequisite for earning a Michelin star is inclusion in the guide. Since the guides are only available in specific regions, restaurants outside those areas are ineligible.
Los Angeles, for instance, lacked a Michelin Guide for a decade after its initial withdrawal due to poor sales. Similarly, Australia currently has no Michelin Guide, and therefore, no Michelin-starred restaurants.
The Simple Reason: No Michelin Guide in India
The reason India lacks Michelin-starred restaurants is simply that there is no Michelin Guide for India. A Michelin star is a regional recognition, not a global award like the Nobel Prize. It signifies excellence within the context of a specific city or country covered by the guide.
Criticism and Alternatives
While Michelin stars remain highly regarded by chefs, the guide has faced criticism. In New York, a New York Times review often holds more weight than a Michelin star. The World’s 50 Best Restaurants list, based on votes from foodies worldwide, has emerged as a trendsetting alternative, quicker to recognize culinary innovations.
Indian Restaurants on the Global Stage
Indian cuisine has gained recognition on the World’s 50 Best Restaurants list. Gaggan, for example, was ranked as the fourth-best restaurant globally and topped the Asian list for four years. However, Indian restaurants within India have received less attention. Indian Accent is a regular feature on the global or Asia list, while other deserving establishments are often overlooked.
There is hope that the Asia 50 list will include more Indian restaurants this year, with potential candidates like Bukhara, Bombay Canteen, and Masque. Such recognition is crucial given Michelin’s absence in India.
Looking Ahead
While rumors of Michelin’s imminent arrival in India circulate, no concrete plans have been announced. In the meantime, it’s important to acknowledge the excellence of restaurants like Karavalli and Dum Pukht, which rival other Asian restaurants on the 50 Best list.
Even without Michelin stars, chefs like Gaggan Anand have achieved international acclaim. His original restaurant, Gaggan, was consistently full before and after receiving two Michelin stars, demonstrating that true culinary excellence transcends ratings.
Ultimately, the absence of a Michelin Guide in India does not reflect a lack of culinary talent. It simply highlights the guide’s limited geographical scope. Hopefully, Michelin will eventually recognize the rich and diverse culinary landscape of India.
