In brief
South Australia has earned its first Michelin stars, with Magill Estate Restaurant receiving two stars and ten other establishments earning one star each. The state government secretly funded Michelin inspectors to conduct the reviews, making this the only region in Australia to be included in the guide. The move follows New Zealand’s inclusion last year, and tourism officials argue the accolade will boost the state's profile as a culinary destination. The full list of awardees highlights a mix of Adelaide and regional chefs experimenting with local ingredients.
South Australia has become the first region in the country to feature in the Michelin Guide, with eleven local restaurants earning either one or two stars. Magill Estate Restaurant in Adelaide received two stars, while the remaining ten diners were awarded a single star each.
The achievement followed a discreet, state-funded visit by Michelin inspectors, a strategy the ABC reports the government adopted after prior unsuccessful attempts to bring the guide to Australia. Tourists Minister Emily Bourke defended the expenditure, stating the stars would place the state on the global culinary map and bolster tourism.
The decision mirrors New Zealand’s 2024 inclusion, where the nation paid NZ$6.3 million over three years for entry. South Australia’s investment represents a new commitment to culinary prestige in Oceania.
Star‑Awarded Restaurants
- Magill Estate Restaurant – 2 stars
- Anvers Restaurant – 1 star
- Maxwell Restaurant – 1 star
- Botanic – 1 star
- Arkhé – 1 star
- Esmay – 1 star
- Aurora at ILA – 1 star
- Hentley Farm – 1 star
- LVN Restaurant at Bird in Hand – 1 star
- Aptos – 1 star
- Skillogalee Barrel House – 1 star
The Michelin Guide’s historical roots trace back to 1900, when brothers André and Édouard Michelin created it to encourage motorists to travel, with the star rating system officially introduced in 1926. Today, one star signals high‑quality cooking, two stars signify excellence worth a detour, and three stars denote cuisine worthy of a special journey.
Beyond the 11 starred venues, more than 70 South Australian restaurants have earned Bib Gourmand status, recognizing good quality food at moderate prices.
