The inaugural Michelin food guide finally kicked off in Shanghai, China on Wednesday. They awarded restaurants from grand to growing hotels as well as street hawkers who serve Cantonese staples.

The guide was launched over a century ago and its aim was to promote automobile travel. It has spread across 28 more country cuisine specials such as the Brazilian and Peruvian cuisine.

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The food guide toured China as they aim to award 26 restaurants. Different inspectors made different visits as regular clients to different restaurants before making a final verdict. They make a joint decision afterwards.

T'ang Court in The Langham Shanghai was the only restaurant to get the highest citation after they bagged three Michelin awards.

"The talented and creative chef Justin Tan offers cuisine in which traditional Cantonese dishes, rub shoulders with very modern dishes," said Michael Ellis, the international director of Michelin guides.

Meanwhile, the Canton 8, a popular two-star hotel got two Michelin stars awards. The spot is a common lunch hour destination.

"Canton 8 is a reflection of what can be in Shanghai: masterful, delicious and very good quality cooking," Ellis described the resto.  

Umberto Bombana 8½ Otto e Mezzo Bombana also got two Michelin stars awards for its Italian cuisine as well as for its comforting environment and dining experience.

The China inauguration is the second of its kind in the Asian market. The first was launched in July in Singapore, where street stalls were awarded by Michelin inspectors.

Critics, however, argued that street-fare in the two Asian communities cannot be made equal to the French haute cuisine.

In response, vice president of Michelin, Claire Dorland Clauzel, explained that it is not a case of who does it better.

"We have to adapt to the country," she said. "Our role is to promote quality food everywhere, not just French food."  

When asked what makes Shanghai, China an exciting destination for Michelin food guide, Ellis pointed out that "it's been an economic and cultural crossroads and the gastronomy of Shanghai really reflects its rich history."

Tagschina, Michelin, Michelin Guide, Michelin Food Guide China