Michelin on Thursday awarded downtown Evanston’s Found the Bib Gourmand, an annual prize for affordable fine dining.

The eclectic small-plates eatery, 1631 Chicago Ave., celebrated its one-year anniversary Wednesday. Found said it was “thrilled” to be one of 69 Chicago-area restaurants to earn the honor.

“Thank you thank you to all of our amazing partners!” Found said in a Facebook post after Michelin’s announcement. “our guests, our team, our backers and venders too! it has been a brilliant year! can’t wait to experience what is to come!”

Named after the waving man in the Michelin logo, the Bib Gourmands are seen as second to only the Michelin stars in distinguishing the best places to eat. Anonymous inspectors help Michelin pick the Bib Gourmands, which generally go to the judges’ favorite restaurants that offer two courses and a glass of wine or dessert for less than $40.

Michelin plans to announce its star recipients for Chicago this week.

— Patrick Svitek