Tourism New Zealand has recently showcased a groundbreaking culinary event, positioning New Zealand’s exceptional night skies and premier cuisine at the forefront of international attention. The event, aptly named ‘The Restaurant with the Most Stars,’ sought to highlight the nation’s unique gastronomic offerings amidst its stunning natural backdrop.
In a move aimed at overcoming past exclusions from the Michelin Guide due to geographical considerations, New Zealand presented a restaurant experience touted as having “more stars” than any other globally. The event welcomed 50 distinguished international food critics and influencers to evaluate and experience the country’s culinary excellence firsthand.
The event was curated by renowned New Zealand chef Ben Bayly, who crafted an exclusive dining experience beneath the star-studded skies of Kura Tawhiti (Castle Hill), located at the base of the Southern Alps on the South Island. “Why be satisfied with a Michelin Star, when you can cook under 2.5 billion of them?” Bayly commented, encapsulating the event’s extraordinary setting.
Attendees included prominent figures from key markets such as Australian food critic Sofia Levin and Ashley Day from the influential US publication Food & Wine. The event featured a bespoke six-course degustation menu, expertly prepared with the finest seasonal produce and native ingredients, including truffle, pāua (abalone), Wagyu beef, and crayfish.
Chef Ben Bayly elaborated on the event’s significance, stating, “The definition of a three-star restaurant in the Michelin Guide means ‘exceptional cuisine, worthy of a special journey.’ We believe that New Zealand cuisine stands in a category of its own – superior cuisine, worthy of a journey to the edge of the earth.”
New Zealand’s culinary identity, deeply rooted in kaitiakitanga (guardianship) and manaakitanga (hospitality), reflects its rich agricultural heritage and vibrant food culture.
For more information about Aotearoa New Zealand’s offerings, visit www.newzealand.com/stargrazing.