For 20 years, she lived a life shrouded in mystery: dining anonymously at some of the world’s most celebrated restaurants, and deciding which ones would earn (or lose) the coveted MICHELIN stars. In this rare and candid interview, “P” — a Sicilian-born, Bronx-raised former MICHELIN Guide inspector — shares her fascinating journey from anthropology and food studies to becoming one of the most elusive figures in the culinary world.
From the rigorous inspector training in France, to her most unforgettable meals, to the pressure of evaluating a potential three-star dining experience, “P” takes us behind the curtain of MICHELIN’s closely guarded process. She answers YOUR listener and viewer questions revealing how restaurants are chosen, what really sets a 3-star apart from a 2-star, the truth about “pay-to-play” rumors, why certain stars shocked her, and yes… whether inspectors get a discount on tires.
In This Episode:
- How she became a MICHELIN inspector
- The truth about inspector training & assignments
- What inspectors really look for (and what they don’t)
- How stars are decided and why some ratings surprise even insiders
- Behind-the-scenes challenges, controversies, and unforgettable dining moments
- Advice for young chefs chasing their first star
- Her thoughts on the guide’s evolving global presence and credibility
If you’ve ever wondered how the MICHELIN Guide really works or dreamed of what it’s like to live the “secret star life” this episode is a must-listen.
LISTEN HERE or on your favorite podcast platform:
Apple
Spotify
iHeartradio
Amazon Music
Audible
Thank you for listening. As always, from my “palette” to yours,
Cheers!
Brenda
Taste the world’s best wines and meet visionary winemakers at Vinous Icons: Miami. The experts at the wine site Vinous have selected over 100 internationally renowned wine estates to join them in Miami over two days, November 14 and 15. They’ll share exceptional wines and the stories behind them, all from within the beautiful Bloom ballroom at Jungle Island, overlooking the Miami skyline.
Use code WHET30PALETTE to receive 30% off ticket prices
The Whet Palette listeners can use the code WHET30PALETTE to receive 30% off ticket prices.
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