SHANGHAI • The storied Michelin food guide launched its first edition in China on Wednesday, awarding stars to elegant luxury establishments as well as to a humble haunt serving Cantonese staples.

The inaugural edition covers Shanghai and gives stars to 26 restaurants, including the world's least expensive two-star establishment, Canton 8, a popular lunchtime spot catering to local families.

"Canton 8 is a reflection of what can be found in Shanghai - masterful, delicious and very good quality cooking," said Mr Michael Ellis, international director of the Michelin guides.

Another restaurant awarded two stars is the upmarket Imperial Treasure Fine Chinese Cuisine located at Yi Feng Gallery near The Bund. It is one of five restaurants in Shanghai opened by Singapore's Imperial Treasure Group.

The guide awarded its highest three-star rating to T'ang Court, a six-table Cantonese restaurant in The Langham hotel, famous for dishes that include braised sea cucumber and wagyu beef.

"The talented and creative chef Justin Tan offers cuisine in which traditional Cantonese dishes rub shoulders with some very modern dishes," Mr Ellis said.

AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE