Foods always connect us with culture, community and memories. The linkage between regions and local delicacies forms unforgettable experiences for diners. Known for its bold flavours stemming from a country of multiethnic influences and heritage which form a significant part of its national identity, Malaysia’s food culture provides a positively extraordinary edge that immediately captivates the tastes buds of the most conscientious epicurean both locally and abroad.
Over the years, we have been questioning: Will there be Michelin Guide in Malaysia? Today, this question is answered – the MICHELIN Guide announced its arrival in Malaysia, covering two key culinary hubs of Kuala Lumpur and Penang, with restaurant and hotel selections to be released during a dedicated event in December 2022. The coveted MICHELIN Guide recognizes the best culinary talents and the latest gastronomical experiences Malaysia has to offer, based on the company’s independent inspection and selection criteria.
Why Kuala Lumpur and Penang? With the aim to search for exceptional gastronomical experiences, the MICHELIN Guide Inspectors have found Kuala Lumpur and Penang to be the two cities that present very distinct yet vibrant culinary complexity which truly reflects the uniqueness of Malaysia’s multiethnic culture.
The MICHELIN Guide conveys its restaurant reviews through an extensive system of distinctions, the most revered of which are its globally renowned MICHELIN Stars. One MICHELIN Star is awarded to restaurants for “high-quality cooking that is worth a stop,” two MICHELIN Stars for “excellent cooking that is worth a detour,” and three MICHELIN Stars for “exceptional cuisine that is worth a special journey.”
Besides the coveted star ratings, the selection will also include the popular Bib Gourmand category, a distinction awarded to establishments that provide value-for-money meals.
In months to come, the MICHELIN Guide will highlight the diverse gastronomy of Malaysia and recommend the best restaurant selections in Kuala Lumpur and Penang, through its independent restaurant inspections based on the company’s international selection criteria, ensuring consistency of standards across the world:
- Quality of the ingredients
- Mastery of cooking
- Harmony of flavours
- The personality of the chef through the cuisine
- The consistency both over time and across the entire menu.
Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the MICHELIN Guide.
“We are ecstatic to welcome Kuala Lumpur and Penang to the MICHELIN Guide family,” said Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the MICHELIN Guide. “This upcoming selection will unveil a new page in Asia’s gastronomic prowess, spotlighting the wonders of Malaysian cuisine and the abundance of home-grown culinary talents. Our famously anonymous inspectors are already in the field to experience this colorful culinary scene and find the best local gems.”
“Kuala Lumpur and Penang have their own unique characteristics which benefit a variety of diners locally and abroad. Kuala Lumpur, the country’s economic and business hub is a fast-moving city flocked with sizable venues, independent restaurants, and new inspirations for gastronomy. Penang, with its strong Peranakan influence, is a gastronomic hotbed of small- scale restaurants and street food that embodies Malaysia’s distinctive streetside dining culture.” Poullennec added.
Discover The MICHELIN Guide’s worldwide recommended restaurants, visit the MICHELIN Guide website or download the free application for iOS and Android.
Follow this space for more upcoming information.
