Some restaurants have plain and simply taken a beating from The Michelin Guide, released October 8, 2007. Based on their 3-star rating system, New Yorkers abide by this guide like the restaurant Bible- which is why losing a star is no laughing matter.

The guide has rated New York restaurants for only 3 years, but has gained respect from curious diners. It will also publish new guides for L.A. and Las Vegas shortly. One star means “a very good restaurant,” two means “excellent cooking,” and the elusive three stars means “exceptional cuisine, worth a special journey.” The restaurants are judged on the following criteria: product quality, preparation and flavors, value for money, consistency, and the cuisine’s personality.

Bad news first- “Top Chef” Tom Colicchio’s restaurant Craft has felt the wrath of The Michelin Guide. Their lone star was taken away this year, as the quality has not remained consistent to achieve a coveted spot on the Michelin Guide. This stripping of the star is likely to force the restaurant into making major changes.

You better believe Gordon Ramsay is running around his kitchen with the closest he’s ever come to a smile, shouting “F-ing right!”

Onto the good news- the potty-mouth Gordon Ramsay has been given a distinctive honor, as his restaurant “Gordon Ramsay at The London” has received 2 stars. The Michelin director Jean-Luc Naret insists his two-star rating is entirely deserved, and has nothing to do with his celebrity status. This is Ramsay’s first U.S. venture- and has clearly turned out to be a successful one, considering only 5 other restaurants hold a 2 star rating.

The exceptionally-scrumptious 3-star restaurants are repeats from last year, with Jean Georges, Le Bernardin, and Per Se coming out on top. 33 restaurants feature a one-star rating, such as Annisa, Cru, and Oceana. A second grouping, Bib Gourmand, includes 52 high-value (and tasty) restaurants that offer 2 dishes and a glass of wine/dessert for less than $40. Some restaurants featured this year are Sevilla, Home, and Jackson Diner.

The lucky restaurants that have been featured in The Michelin Guide are sure to increase their business, so be aware that you may have to call ahead for reservations. The few that have lost stars have definitely been kicked in the nether regions, while the 2 and 3 star restaurants are gloating. You better believe Gordon Ramsay is running around his kitchen with the closest he’s ever come to a smile, shouting “F-ing right!”