Months after Michelin announced its expansion into the south, the prestigious guide has granted its first series of awards in Houston. On September 12, Michelin announced that it had awarded three Houston hotels with Michelin Keys – a distinction granted for exceptional service and accomodations.
What is the Michelin Key?
The Michelin Key is a new award that the company implemented this year. Much like the coveted Michelin Star honors the pinnacle of dining, Michelin awards Michelin Keys celebrates the height of hospitality at the most exceptional hotels.
“The MICHELIN Key is a clear, reliable indication for travelers. Just as the MICHELIN Star distinguishes those restaurants that are at the peak of their art, the MICHELIN Key recognizes the most exceptional hotels throughout the world. It is also an acknowledgment of the teamwork of committed enthusiastic hospitality professionals,” says Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the MICHELIN Guide on its website.
What criteria does Michelin use to award keys?
As written on its website, Michelin awards Michelin keys based on the following criteria:
- A destination that contributes to the local experience
- Architecture and interior design excellence
- Quality in consistence maintenance, comfort and service
- Possesses unique personality
- Quality of experience matches price
How many hotels in the world have Michelin Keys?
Since implementing the new award system, Michelin has bestowed Michelin Keys to over 5,000 hotels throughout 120 countries worldwide. The Michelin Guide awarded Michelin Keys to 288 hotels across United States, Canada, and Mexico.
What are the Michelin Key Houston hotels?
So far, Michelin has awarded Michelin Keys to three Houston hotels:
- Hotel ZaZa Houston
- Hotel ZaZa Memorial City
- The Post Oak Hotel at Uptown Houston
The Carr Mansion in Galveston also earned a Michelin Key.
What restaurants in Houston have Michelin awards?
Michelin is still in the process of exploring the Houston culinary scene. While there are a number of Houston restaurants run by chefs that have received Michelin stars from restaurants outside of Houston, Michelin has not yet bestowed any Houston restaurants stars but stated that it would release its guide before the end of the year.