Which French tire company publishes the Michelin Guide?

The French tire company that publishes the Michelin Guide is Michelin. The guide began as a motoring aid created by Michelin to encourage people to travel by car—and, naturally, use more tires.

Brothers André and Édouard Michelin founded their tire company in France in 1889. In 1900, they published the first Michelin Guide, which included practical information such as maps, repair advice, fuel stops, hotels, and places to eat. Early editions were distributed free of charge to motorists.

The publication gradually shifted toward restaurant criticism. Michelin introduced restaurant stars in the 1920s, and the modern three-star hierarchy took shape in the 1930s. Anonymous inspectors evaluate restaurants using standards centered on the quality and consistency of the cooking.

A common mix-up is assuming the guide comes from a newspaper, tourism ministry, or restaurant association. It is produced by the tire manufacturer itself, whose red guidebook and star system became influential far beyond the company’s original automotive business.