Operates under the name "Manuals Not Paddles"

HERMOSA BEACH—The first-ever valet service catering exclusively to stick shift vehicles has been awarded three Michelin stars. This unprecedented honor highlights the service's commitment to the upper echelon of society.

The stick shift valet service, which operates under the name "Manuals Not Paddles," is renowned for its precision and skill. Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the Michelin Guides, noted, "This accolade is a testament to the meticulous attention to detail and the dedication to preserving the art of not granny shifting and double clutching like you should."​

Manuals Not Paddles has been celebrated not just for its unique concept but also for the exceptional service it provides. The team is composed exclusively of race car drivers who ensure that each car is handled with the utmost care and expertise. "Our service is about more than just parking cars," says the founder, Li Jian. "It's about creating a seamless and memorable experience for the most prestigious members of society, the stubborn minority that refuse to give in to the evils of the automatic transmission."​

The award also recognizes the cultural significance of manual transmission vehicles in an era increasingly dominated by automatic and electric cars. Chef Jose, who has no Michelin stars for the specialty taco restaurant the valet service is attached to, commented, "It's inspiring to see real skills being honored in this way. It reminds us all of the value in preserving and celebrating the real drivers among us."​

This recognition places Manuals Not Paddles among the top echelons of service providers globally, marking a significant milestone in the history of the Michelin Guide and setting a new standard for excellence in the industry.