The most-anticipated restaurant awards of the year have been put on hold as fires ravage the North Bay. The awards were slated to be announced on Thursday, but the news will be held until “a future date, yet to be determined.”
“We have followed the crisis unfolding in Napa, Sonoma and other counties near San Francisco with grave concern and heavy hearts,” said Claire Dorland-Clauzel, Michelin Group’s executive vice president of brands, external relations, and the MICHELIN Guide. “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.”
Local restaurants with Michelin stars in Sonoma County and Napa include Farmhouse Inn and Restaurant, Madrona Manor, Terrapin Creek, French Laundry, Bouchon, Auberge du Soleil and La Toque.
Michelin stars among the most prestigious awards a restaurant can achieve and are published annually in Michelin Guides in notable food destinations in Europe as well as New York and the San Francisco Bay Area. The guides have been produced by the Paris-based tire company since 1900, highlighting destination-worthy restaurant locations. American restaurants have been eligible for inclusion since 2005.