Days after the Michelin Guide named its first-ever Charlotte star, local restaurants are already seeing what’s known as “the Michelin effect” — a surge in reservations and attention, notably from out-of-towners.

Why it matters: Cities and states across the South made a big bet on Michelin, and will collectively pitch in $1.65 million a year in a three-year contract to bring the Michelin Guide to the region. Chefs in Charlotte tell Axios they’re feeling a boost already.

At Customshop in Elizabeth, chef-owner Andres Kaifer said weekday reservations are up 25% and private-event inquiries jumped 50% since the guide was released.

“The Michelin guide is an excellent resource for travelers,” Kaifer said. “I would assume the ripple effect from the guide announcement will be more long-term related vs. immediate,” he said.

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