In France, Michelin Goes Casual

With the dreary global economic climate affecting so many this year, the pricetag of haute cuisine remains somewhat impractical. As a result, this year's edition of the Michelin Guide France features a greater number of Bib Gourmand restaurants than "starred" restaurants for the first time in the guide's history. 

The new Michelin guide, which goes on sale Thursday, includes 601 Bib Gourmand restaurants and 571 "starred" restaurants. The Bib Gourmand label designates those value-driven eateries within Paris that offer a full meal for less than €35 euros, and those outside of Paris for €29 euros. 

In accordance with the growing meal deals trend (that we predicted would blossom this year), Michelin is promoting the guide through an event called the Printemps du guide MICHELIN. Upon purchasing the book, readers will have the opportunity to take advantage of deals at one thousand of the featured restaurants by using a special pass printed in the guide. The participating restaurants will offer a variety of special menus, culinary workshops, and menu discounts from March 21st through June 21st. 

The Daily Byte is a regular column dedicated to covering interesting food news and trends across the country. Click here for previous columns.