In brief
South Australia has earned its first Michelin stars, with 11 restaurants across the state receiving recognition. Magill Estate Restaurant in Adelaide was awarded two stars, while ten other venues earned a single star each. The state government financed covert visits by Michelin inspectors, marking a strategic investment in tourism and global culinary reputation. This milestone follows New Zealand’s earlier inclusion in the guide and could redefine Australian tourism pathways. The event underscores the region’s vibrant food culture and positions it as a high‑profile gastronomic destination.
South Australia has made a historic entry onto the Michelin map, earning its first Michelin stars for 11 restaurants across the state.
Magill Estate Restaurant in Adelaide took the lead, being awarded two stars, while ten other venues earned a single star each.
The state government paid for covert visits by Michelin inspectors, a clear investment aimed at boosting tourism and lacing South Australia into an international food corridor. Tourism Minister Emily Bourke highlighted the move as a step toward placing the region on the global culinary map.
Chef and owner Scott Huggins of Magill Estate said he dreamed of working in Michelin‑starred kitchens as a youth and that achieving two stars marks a pinnacle in his career.
The Michelin Guide – which began in 1900 to help motorists find quality food and lodging – introduced the star system in 1926, with one star indicating high‑quality cooking, two stars denoting excellent food worth a detour, and three stars reserved for exceptional cuisine worthy of a special journey.
Below is the full list of awardees:
Two Michelin stars
- Magill Estate Restaurant, Rosslyn Park
One Michelin star
- Anvers Restaurant, Kangarilla
- Maxwell Restaurant, McLaren Vale
- Botanic, Adelaide
- Arkhé, Norwood
- Esmay, Adelaide
- Aurora at ILA, Adelaide
- Hentley Farm, Seppeltsfield
- LVN Restaurant at Bird in Hand, Woodside
- Aptos, Stirling
- Skillogalee Barrel House, Sevenhill
In addition to the star‑winners, the guide lists more than 70 South Australian restaurants in the Bib Gourmand category, celebrating excellent meals at more accessible price points.
The state’s move comes over a century after the Michelin Guide first appeared, following missed attempts to bring the awards to Australia. South Australia’s independent approach, echoing New Zealand’s earlier participation, could signal a broader geographic expansion for Michelin and a wave of culinary discovery across the continent.
