The world-renowned Michelin Guide is finally booking a table in Toronto. The gourmand bible says it’s making the city the first Canadian destination for its star-rated restaurant review system – a decision that has been long awaited and whose absence has caused much consternation and irritation in foodie circles in the country for years.

Michelin says inspectors have already begun visiting local eateries anonymously and that the inaugural edition of the Michelin Guide Toronto will be announced this fall.

Inspectors award one, two or three stars for cuisine and bestow “Bib Gourmand” ratings on restaurants that offer great quality food at good prices. And the Michelin Green Star goes to restaurants involved in sustainable gastronomy.

The announcement earlier this week was also made by Destination Toronto. Michelin says it works with tourism boards to promote the travel industry in respective locations but that the Michelin Guide remains completely independent.

“For the first time in its history, the Michelin Guide lands in Canada and our inspectors are excited to experience the impressive culinary landscape of Toronto,” said Gwendal Poullennec, international director of the Michelin Guides. “This selection for Canada’s largest city, and our first in the country, will represent the local flavours, international inspiration, and distinct creativity that makes Toronto’s dining scene world-class.”

Mayor John Tory said the announcement “further bolsters our reputation as a world destination for food and cuisine.”

Indeed, Michelin starred restaurants and chefs are significant tourism attractions in their own right.

“Toronto’s culinary scene is as diverse as the city itself, and a Toronto Michelin Guide is the perfect way to celebrate our culinary community,” said Scott Beck, President & CEO of Destination Toronto. “It will be a powerful way to share our culinary capabilities with new audiences from around the world…”

Michelin says the criteria applied in Canada will be the same as elsewhere: the quality; mastery of flavours; mastery of cooking techniques; the personality of the chef in the cuisine; and consistency between each visit.

Michelin already reviews hotels in Toronto.