FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – Wednesday, April 2, 2025
A World-Class Opportunity for Chattanooga’s Culinary Scene
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (April 2, 2025) – Chattanooga’s culinary scene is now under consideration for one of the world’s most prestigious dining recognitions, as Michelin and Travel South USA today announced the launch of the MICHELIN Guide American South. This new regional Guide, set to debut in 2025, will showcase the culinary excellence of six states—Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee—alongside the pre-existing Atlanta Guide.
“We are incredibly proud of the exceptional talent within Chattanooga’s culinary community. Our chefs and restaurateurs are continuously elevating the city’s food scene, and it’s a true honor to be under consideration by the MICHELIN Guide,” said Barry White, President & CEO of Chattanooga Tourism Co. “This project is a testament to the hard work, creativity, and passion of our culinary experts. While recognition in the MICHELIN Guide is never guaranteed, we firmly believe they are more than deserving of global recognition.”
Along with Michelin, Travel South USA, and Tennessee Department of Tourist Development, Chattanooga Tourism Co. is proud to welcome the MICHELIN Guide to the region and collaborate to showcase the area’s diverse and thriving food culture. The MICHELIN Guide’s anonymous Inspectors are already in the field, making reservations and seeking out the South’s most outstanding culinary experiences.
“As a restaurateur and chef, it is thrilling to know that the MICHELIN Guide is considering Chattanooga,” said Erik Niel, Chef/Owner of Easy Bistro, Main St Meats, and Little Coyote. “The Guide represents a long history of dining excellence, and to have the opportunity for acknowledgment by them in our dynamic and vibrant food scene is a huge development.”
The launch of this regional MICHELIN Guide marks a significant expansion beyond major metropolitan areas, allowing the world-renowned Guide to uncover authentic Southern cuisine in a broader range of communities. Travel South USA, participating state tourism offices, and destination marketing organizations will work together on marketing efforts to introduce food lovers, both domestic and international, to the depth, diversity, and innovation of Southern culinary traditions.
The MICHELIN Guide follows a rigorous and independent selection process, with Inspectors evaluating restaurants based on five universal criteria: Quality of ingredients; Harmony of flavors; Mastery of cooking techniques; Chef’s personality as expressed in the cuisine; Consistency across visits and throughout the menu.
Since its inception in the early 1900s, the MICHELIN Guide has remained a trusted resource for travelers seeking world-class dining experiences. With the introduction of the American South edition, Chattanooga’s culinary scene has the opportunity to gain international recognition alongside some of the finest dining destinations in the world.
The full restaurant selection for the 2025 MICHELIN Guide American South will be revealed later this year at the annual MICHELIN Guide Ceremony for the American South. For updates and information on Chattanooga’s culinary scene, visit visitchattanooga.com/culinary/.
About the Chattanooga Tourism Co.
The Chattanooga Tourism Co. is the official destination marketing organization for Hamilton County, dedicated to sustainably increasing visitation and connecting guests with authentic Chattanooga experiences. The organization aims to strengthen the local economy and enrich the community by establishing Chattanooga as a premier destination for meetings, conventions, sporting events, and leisure travel. Annually, Hamilton County welcomes over 15 million visitors who contribute $70 million in local taxes, saving each resident household $1,205 in taxes and supporting more than 30,000 jobs. VisitChattanooga.com
MEDIA CONTACT:
Hannah Hammon
Public Relations Manager
Cell: 256-996-5788
hannah@chattanoogatourism.com
About Travel South USA
Travel South USA is America’s oldest and largest regional travel promotion organization, formed in 1965 by a resolution presented at the Southern Governor’s Conference. The long-standing regional collaboration of the state tourism offices of Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia provides a foundation to positively position tourism as a vital and dynamic element in the region’s economic development. Tourism ranks throughout the region as one of the top industries behind manufacturing and agriculture, and is responsible for $220 billion in spending by visitors, generating 1.56 million direct jobs, and more than $15.5 billion in state and local taxes.
About Tennessee Department of Tourist Development
The Tennessee Department of Tourist Development (TDTD) is dedicated to driving economic growth and tourism in all 95 counties. TDTD’s global marketing efforts increase visitation to Tennessee, which boosts tax revenue, creates jobs, and attracts new investment across the state. Tennessee is a global destination of choice offering visitors world-class music, live entertainment, family-friendly experiences, charming communities, innovative and classic culinary creations, renowned scenic beauty, and outdoor adventure—all centered at the crossroads of rich history and unrivaled hospitality. Vacations “sound perfect” in Tennessee. Visit TNvacation.com and follow @TNvacation on social media for travel inspiration.
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