A ‘Michelin Impossible’- rural KFC owner appeals for Michelin recognition.
Well here it is folks, another completely (deep) fried Aussie story. The owner of a KFC franchise in Alice Springs, Northern Territory has attempted to achieve peak culinary acclaim by gaining recognition from the Michelin-star system.
Clearly owner Sam Elderman backs Colonel Sanders’ 11 secret herbs and spices, as he took his campaigning all the way to the France. Elderman’s massive efforts meant he got to meet with directors of the Michelin guide.
Alas, they were not as enthusiastic about rural Aussie (Kentucky) Fried Chook, as this bloke.
Australia has not received a Michelin guide, so it is hard to imagine this KFC in a town of just over 25,000 people in the outback would likely be first recognised.
The Michelin guide was established in France in the early 1900s as a means of encouraging motorists to drive to noteworthy restaurants around the country. A clever marketing ploy from none other than the tyre company Michelin, in an attempt to get people burning through that rubber.
This Alice Springs KFC is so remote, to the degree that it is approximately 1,200kms from the next closest KFC. The restaurant’s owner believed it met the Michelin criteria of ‘worth a detour’ or ‘worth a special trip’. The Michelin guide were not however on board with the finger lickin’ goodness.
To be honest, hats off to Elderman. Whilst his massive campaign did not result in him receiving any number of Michelin-stars, it has resulted in some mighty good publicity.
Thinking taking a culinary trip, but Alice Springs KFC just isn’t doing it for you? Check out our guide to the Southern Highlands here.
