Tatsu Dallas, an omakase with just 10 counter seats, earned a star in Michelin's first Texas guide Monday. Why it matters: A Michelin Guide endorsement brings cachet to restaurants that may already be well-loved locally but less known nationally.

AUSTIN, Texas - Michelin announced the restaurants that made the cut in its first guide to the Lone Star State. Anonymous Michelin reviewers have been in the state looking to award their coveted stars to the best cuisine in Austin, Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston and San Antonio. The company announced its plans to release a Texas guide in July.

Michelin released its Texas guide on Monday, and seven Austin restaurants earned stars. Why it matters: A Michelin Guide endorsement brings restaurants international acclaim. How it works: A group of anonymous inspectors judged restaurants on the quality of ingredients,