The guidebook often referred to as the ‘gourmands’ bible’ and legendary for its ability to make or break the reputation of high-end restaurants in Europe is soon to be given its first Asian edition. On March 14 Michelin released word that a Tokyo edition of the famous Michelin guide would be released in November 2007.

With about 35 million people living in the Greater Tokyo Area, the city is one of the world’s largest and also home to an estimated 300,000 restaurants. Michelin’s publications director, Jean-Luc Naret, praised the quality of Tokyo’s restaurants at a news conference in Tokyo. “Restaurants here are often very simple — a counter, a kitchen and some stools — but what’s on the plate is really worth three stars,” he said. He added that the criteria for Japan were very different to that in Europe.