The Michelin Guide is a series of annual guide books published by Michelin for over a dozen countries. The term normally refers to the Michelin Red Guide, the oldest and best-known European hotel and restaurant guide, which awards the Michelin stars.
Michelin also publishes Green Guides for travel and tourism, as well as several newer publications such as the Guide Voyageur Pratique, Guide Gourmand, Guide Escapade, and Guide Coup de Cœur.
First published in 1900 for France, Michelin introduced additional guides thereafter for other European countries. In 2005, it published the first guide for the United States focusing on New York City; followed by it's first Asian guide in 2007 for Tokyo.
In 2012, the Michelin Guide collection had 27 guide books covering 23 countries on three continents, with over 45,000 worldwide addresses. The 3 star Michelin rating means the guide suggests you visit the country just to try out the restaurant.