Michelin Will Release SF’s Guide This Wednesday

The prestigious Michelin guide has announced that it will release its star rankings for 2018 on Wednesday, October 25. Originally scheduled for October 12, the devastating fires in Napa and Sonoma caused the organization to postpone an announcement for the first time since it began publishing in the US in 2005.

At the time, a Michelin spokesperson emailed the following statement: “We have followed the crisis unfolding in Napa, Sonoma and other counties near San Francisco with grave concern and heavy hearts. Recognizing the turmoil and tragedy of the fires that are still burning, we understand this is a time for grief and recovery, not celebration. We extend our condolences to all who have been affected.” Michelin also made a donation to the American Red Cross “in honor of the restaurants, wineries and communities affected by the wildfires.”

The fires claimed the lives of 42 people and destroyed thousands of homes and businesses throughout the region, including some wineries and restaurants. As of today, the fires have reached much higher levels of containment: Currently the deadly Tubbs fire affecting Santa Rosa and Calistoga is 94 percent contained; the Glen Ellen Nuns fire is 90 percent contained, and the Atlas fire in Napa is 95 percent contained.

Recovery efforts are ongoing as evacuation orders are slowly lifted throughout the area. SF chefs have been working tirelessly to provide quality meals for displaced residents, evacuees, and first responders. Michelin could prove a needed diversion, or an unwelcome distraction, depending on how it shakes out for restaurants in the area.

Stay tuned for coverage of Michelin’s newest star recipients.