CLEVELAND (April 8, 2026) – Today Destination Cleveland, the destination marketing and management organization for Greater Cleveland, announced its participation in the MICHELIN Guide’s latest expansion into the Great Lakes region of the U.S. The upcoming MICHELIN Guide American Great Lakes edition will cover Cleveland, Detroit, Indianapolis, Milwaukee, Minneapolis and Pittsburgh.
“The MICHELIN Guide is committed to fostering a culture of travel and dining by helping people discover unforgettable culinary experiences in new destinations,” said Gwendal Poullennec, Internation Director of the MICHELIN Guide. “We are excited to finally be putting a stake in the ground in the Great Lakes region, spotlighting the talent and food cultures across these six great cities. Our anonymous Inspectors have begun canvassing these cities for impressive culinary talent and are eager to share their experiences with you in the inaugural selection next year.”
“Cleveland’s nationally recognized culinary scene is a hallmark of our visitor experience, and our chefs have earned the attention of the MICHELIN Guide,” said David Gilbert, president & CEO of Destination Cleveland. “This is an exciting opportunity that showcases the quality, creativity and authenticity of our culinary community - it’s time for the world to know about our vibrant food scene.”
The MICHELIN Guide serves as a tourism catalyst, economic driver and culinary stimulus for local destinations. In the 2025 Ernst & Young “Beyond the MICHELIN Stars” study, 76% of travelers said they would extend their stay in a destination with MICHELIN-Starred restaurants to enjoy an experience in a restaurant recommended by the MICHELIN Guide.
“While we don’t know what restaurants will be honored with MICHELIN’s recognition, we know that Cleveland’s culinary scene will benefit from The MICHELIN Guide American Great Lakes edition,” said Gilbert. “As Destination Cleveland continues its work to attract visitors and strengthen perceptions of our city around the U.S. and the world, association with the MICHELIN Guide offers an opportunity to attract new travelers and boost local restaurants’ sales.”
The MICHELIN Guide’s anonymous Inspectors are already in the field, making dining reservations and scouting for culinary gems throughout the region. The full restaurant selection will be revealed in 2027 at the MICHELIN Guide American Great Lakes Ceremony, which will be announced at a later date.
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ABOUT DESTINATION CLEVELAND: Destination Cleveland is Cleveland’s destination marketing and management organization. The private, non-profit organization’s mission is to stimulate economic growth by attracting people and connecting them to experiences that illustrate Cleveland’s diversity, creativity and contagious passion. In 2024, visitation increased for the fourth straight year to 18.6 million visits, with visitor spending infusing a record-high $6.9 billion into the local economy. For more information, visit www.thisiscleveland.com