From a small, 400-page red guide distributed free of charge to motorists and containing a wealth of useful information on such topics as tire changes and vehicle maintenance, the MICHELIN guide has developed over the years to become the benchmark in gourmet dining, a more than 2,000-page guide that offers a selection of nearly 8,500 establishments, to help travelers in their journeys. The mission of the MICHELIN guide, which has always been the same as that of the Michelin group, is summed up in its corporate signature—“A better way forward.”

The centennial edition of the MICHELIN guide France provides a unique opportunity to celebrate gourmet dining, That’s why the restaurants listed in the 2009 selection have been invited to take part in Le Mois Gourmand (Gourmet Month), organized by the MICHELIN guide from March 9 through April 5. During one month, more than 900 restaurants throughout France will feature special 100th edition offers to celebrate the event. These include special menus that are affordably priced, food market visits with chefs, guided tours of wine cellars with tastings, visits to wine storehouses, dinners in the restaurant’s kitchen with explanations from the chef, special deals on the wine menu and cooking classes, and recipes for a particular dish or regional specialty— a wide range of original offerings to celebrate Le Mois Gourmand.

To take advantage of these offers, the customer simply shows the restaurant manager a pass that is inserted in the MICHELIN guide France 2009. The pass is valid for two people and can be used and re-used in all restaurants taking part in the Mois Gourmand. The list of participating restaurants, organized by regional department, and their offers will be posted on a dedicated website—www.guide-michelin-centieme.com—on Monday, March 2.

Michelin Media Relations - Tel: + 33 1 45 66 10 39