ATLANTA—The Michelin Guide is launching in the Southern region, expanding beyond urban cities to uncover food culture in Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee. The existing Atlanta Guide will join the new Michelin Guide American South for two years starting in 2026. This follows the conclusion of the city’s initial three-year contract between the Michelin Guide and Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau (ACVB), ending in 2025.
“We are excited to embark on this new journey for the Michelin Guide, as this will be the first time since the Guide’s North American debut in 2005 that we are launching a regional selection,” says Gwendal Poullennec, international director of the Michelin Guides. “The cuisine of the American South is a unique product of diverse influences creating an iconic array of specialties prepared by proud and impressive culinary talent.”
The Michelin Guide’s anonymous inspectors are already in the field, making dining reservations and scouting for regional culinary gems. The full 2025 restaurant selection will be revealed later this year during the annual Michelin Guide Ceremony for the American South.
“Travel South USA is thrilled to support the Michelin Guide coming to the American South,” says Liz Bittner, president & CEO of Travel South USA. “Our region has long deserved global recognition for its extraordinary farm-to-table cuisine, world-class seafood, and rich food culture—crafted by some of the world’s most creative and talented chefs. We couldn’t be prouder to be the first region in the country to showcase our culinary assets in big cities and small towns on a global stage. A heartfelt thank you to the state tourism offices and destinations for their participation in this groundbreaking initiative.”
