Secretary for Commerce & Economic Development Rita Lau today welcomed the release of the Michelin Guide for Hong Kong.

Michelin Guide Hong Kong Macau 2009 is the first bilingual Michelin Guide and includes 202 establishments in Hong Kong, 22 of them receiving one or more Michelin stars.

Mrs Lau said she is pleased Hong Kong has become one of the first Michelin cities in China, and the release of the guide is further recognition of the city's reputation as a gastronomic hub.

"Building on the momentum given by the removal of wine duty since February and the opportunities brought by the release of the Michelin guide in Hong Kong, we will, through the Hong Kong Tourism Board, work to further enhance Hong Kong's status as a capital for fine wine and good food," she said.

The board said it will use the Michelin guide to boost promotion and stimulate visitors' interest in coming to Hong Kong to enjoy its diverse array of cuisines.