Louisiana isn’t alone. It will be part of a regional guide called the Michelin Guide American South that takes in five more states: Alabama, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee. This reflects a new approach from Michelin, which has previously turned its attention to individual cities or states as its guides expand in the U.S.

Last month, Time Out named New Orleans the best food city in the world. On Wednesday, the Michelin Guide announced it will review restaurants in New Orleans and across Louisiana for the first time, further positioning the state as a top destination for travelers and foodies worldwide.

The Michelin Guide will soon offer its sought-after recommendations for restaurants in the U.S. South, potentially offering stars to New Orleans restaurants, the company announced Wednesday. Why it matters: A Michelin star is one of the restaurant world's top honors,