The Michelin Guide, celebrated globally for spotlighting culinary brilliance, has welcomed a host of new additions in recent months. As we step into 2024, I’m thrilled to present a selection that promises to tantalise your taste buds and ignite your passion for the world of gastronomic distinction.
Our journey begins close to my heart — right here in the United Kingdom. However, we’re steering clear of the bustling culinary landscape of London, where Michelin-starred restaurants seem always a stone’s throw away. Instead, I’ve handpicked two exceptional restaurants from each of the three mainland countries of the UK, offering a diverse culinary exploration beyond the shadows of the English capital.
Kicking off our culinary journey in England, let me introduce you to Faru in Durham. Nestled along the scenic River Wear, this enchanting restaurant not only graces you with a picturesque setting but also offers a diverse range of cuisines, perfectly tailored to satisfy even the most refined taste buds.
Here is what Michelin’s guide had to say about it:
“Its name comes from an old English word for ‘journey’, but there is something decidedly contemporary about this city centre restaurant – from the airy, pared-back interior to the on-trend open kitchen and terse menu descriptions. An antique stained-glass window adds character and makes a fine backdrop for the chefs as they craft colourful, precisely executed dishes that exhibit well thought-through flavour combinations. The warm, friendly service has a pleasingly relaxed feel.”
This is definitely whetting my appetite, making it an excellent choice to kick off our lineup of Michelin-starred restaurants in the United Kingdom.
Now, let’s dive into the magic of Five Little Pigs, the second of our Michelin-starred restaurants in England. Nestled in the charming town of Wallingford, it’s a place that feels like a warm hug. Picture this: cosy streets, friendly faces, and inside Five Little Pigs, a world where they whip up dishes that are pure works of art. It’s like stepping into a fairytale kitchen where every bite tells a delicious story.
Here is what Michelin’s guide had to say about it:
“Named after a novel by Agatha Christie, who lived at the nearby Winterbrook House, this neighbourhood restaurant is divided into three areas: the brightly coloured front resembles a modern bistro; a bar fits in the centre; and the rear sports an open kitchen pass and cosy booths. Sharing is encouraged, with larger plates such as roasted halibut and smaller ones like ‘spare bed tempura’ – using vegetables grown in the gardens of neighbours who have some space to spare. The wholesome cooking is joined by a range of local gins to keep enthusiasts happy.”
Five Little Pigs has left me hungry for more, making it a wonderful addition to our adventure through Michelin-starred restaurants in England. Let’s see what the Scots have us next as we travel back up North!
Embarking on a flavorful journey in bonny Scotland, we step into The Dory Bistro & Gallery in Pittenweem. This charming spot, our first of two Scottish gems, promises not just delicious bites but also a gallery of warm and welcoming vibes.
Here is what Michelin’s guide had to say about it:
“Opposite the harbour in this little fishing village, you’ll find a thoroughly charming restaurant where East Neuk produce is cooked with the care it deserves. Seafood dominates both the menu and the décor, with the restaurant walls doubling up as gallery space for plenty of aqua-based art. The blackboard is the place to look for fresh daily specials, like plump and juicy langoustines or hake with seaweed butter sauce. If you’re local to the area, this could quickly become a favourite haunt – you may even go home with some new artwork.”
Concluding our first taste of Scotland, The Dory Bistro & Gallery has set the bar high for our culinary adventure. Its unique charm and delectable offerings leave me eagerly anticipating our next stop on this delightful journey through Scottish dining.
Now, let’s savour the flavours of Scotland once again as we step into Eòrna in Edinburgh. This gem, our second stop among the Scottish wonders, invites us to a dining experience filled with the rich essence of Edinburgh’s culinary spirit.
Here is what Michelin’s guide had to say about it:
“There’s a plush quality to this smart counter restaurant in the suburb of Stockbridge. Small “chef’s table” operations like this allow for a much greater intimacy to your dining experience and, indeed, there are just two people working here: Brian in the kitchen and Glen looking after service and wines. Following a warm welcome, you can enjoy a highly seasonal tasting menu that has a strong Scottish heart, from the Orkney beef to the fantastic Perthshire strawberries.”
Wrapping up our journey through Michelin starred restaurants in Scotland, Eòrna in Edinburgh has left an indelible mark with its exquisite offerings. As we bid adieu to this culinary haven, my taste buds are still dancing with the lingering taste of its unique and delightful dishes.
Let’s embark on a Welsh culinary adventure with ANNWN in Narberth, our first stop among the two Welsh treasures we’re exploring. Nestled in this picturesque town, ANNWN promises a dining experience that captures the heart of Wales with its unique flavours and warm hospitality.
Here is what Michelin’s guide had to say about it:
“Folklore, foraging and flavour guide your visit to this sustainable, proudly Welsh restaurant. Sat inside a lovingly converted former bank, there is a real sense of warmth to the place, with the passionate chef recounting stories while serving and bringing round ‘top ups’ of sauces and ingredients as you dine. From the expertly foraged produce to the Preseli Hills lamb, local ingredients bring with them a great burst of flavour. Extend your experience by joining one of their occasional foraging days.”
Concluding our first taste of Wales, ANNWN in Narberth has left an indelible impression. Its delightful offerings and inviting ambiance set the stage for our continued journey through the rich tapestry of Welsh cuisine.
Continuing our Welsh culinary exploration, let’s venture into the Touring Club in Penarth, our second stop among the delightful treasures Wales has to offer. Situated in this charming coastal town, Touring Club invites us to savour the essence of Wales through its delectable dishes and inviting atmosphere.
Here is what Michelin’s guide had to say about it:
“Inspired by a restaurant in Patagonia, this slick spot is a great place to while away the hours with a few drinks and accomplished small plates. The relaxed surroundings offer multiple areas to dine in, including a terrace and a kitchen counter bedecked with beautiful blue tiles. The menu ranges from snacks to the more substantial, with the unfussy approach resulting in simple, fresh-tasting dishes like crab on toast. Add in the friendly service and you’ll leave with a smile on your face – just ensure you get here on time as they don’t take bookings.”
As we bid farewell to the Welsh dining experience, the Touring Club leaves a lasting taste of warmth and flavour. Its culinary delights and welcoming ambiance mark the end of our journey through the distinct and delightful world of Michelin starred restaurants in Wales.
As we bid adieu to the United Kingdom, our culinary journey takes a French turn with the enchanting Le Lys in Courchevel—the first of three delightful French establishments we’ll be exploring. Nestled in the heart of the snow-kissed beauty of Courchevel, Le Lys beckons with a promise of exquisite flavours and a cosy, alpine ambiance.
Here is what Michelin’s guide had to say about it:
“Within this new hotel, this restaurant with its monumental bay window boasts an Art Deco-inspired decor: vintage light fittings, glass roof panels and a superb collection of Lalique vases. In the chic and intimate little space, diners savour the cuisine of Mickaël Furnion, who has worked at Château de Massillan in Provence and La Villa in Calvi. He curates a short menu of contemporary dishes in which premium ingredients are lovingly prepared: black truffles in brioche, Wagyu beef Wellington, and a “bouillabaisse de nos lacs” (soup made with fish from local lakes) – the chef’s speciality. A very appealing wine list.”
Closing the chapter on our first French gastronomic escapade, Le Lys in Courchevel has painted a canvas of culinary delights. The snowy charm of the surroundings merges seamlessly with the warmth of the dining experience, marking the beginning of our savory odyssey through the flavours of France.
Continuing our culinary expedition through France, our next destination is Maison Devaux in the charming town of Rion-des-Landes. The second stop on our French journey, this restaurant invites you to a gastronomic haven where the flavours of the region dance on your palate, creating an unforgettable dining experience.
Here is what Michelin’s guide had to say about it:
“Housed in a half-timbered building that is typical of this part of France (Landes), this restaurant is the domain of Mathis Devaux. The son, grandson and nephew of chefs, you could say he was born into the profession. In a decor of terracotta floor tiles and exposed beams, the crockery and tables are designed and produced by local craftspeople. The chef concocts modern bistro cuisine, drawing on local produce (such as black Gascon pork) to concoct dishes such as tender roast pork chop with a reduced jus, celeriac mousseline and simmered prunes, or tarte sablée with white chocolate, black figs and pistachio ice cream.”
As we conclude our time at Maison Devaux in Rion-des-Landes, the lingering taste of their regional delights resonates. The rustic charm and culinary finesse of this establishment leave an indelible mark, setting the stage for the final leg of our delectable tour through the French culinary landscape.
Concluding our French culinary tour is the enchanting Baud in Bonne. Our third and final stop in France, this restaurant nestled in the heart of Bonne beckons with an alluring blend of flavours and a welcoming ambiance, promising a delightful end to our exploration of French gastronomy.
Here is what Michelin’s guide had to say about it:
“Chef Michel Verdu loves herbs (which he often collects himself), plants and vegetables (some of which he picks from the establishment’s kitchen garden) – and his natural and creative cuisine, which is predominantly plant-based, makes no bones about this, with starters such as gazpacho with cucumber, tomato and mozzarella (made with raw Savoie milk), or indeed his mayonnaise flavoured with wild herbs, which goes down a treat with arctic char. The interior design is contemporary, with black and white striped carpet and crimson walls and ceiling, and the terrace nestles beneath a pergola by the river. Multi-course mystery set menu. Pleasant contemporary guestrooms.”
Wrapping up our culinary journey through France at Baud in Bonne, the flavours linger, and the experience echoes. With its exquisite offerings and inviting atmosphere, Baud adds a final touch of culinary brilliance, leaving us with a taste of the rich tapestry of the French cuisine available at Michelin starred restaurants in France.
Crossing borders into Germany, our culinary journey takes us to Wilhelm in the heart of Berlin. This marks the beginning of our exploration of German flavours, where Wilhelm invites you to indulge in a dining experience that combines the city’s vibrancy with culinary finesse.
Here is what Michelin’s guide had to say about it:
“The location in the imposing Humboldt Forum, which dates back to the 15C and stands on Museum Island, next to the Berlin Palace, is certainly interesting. The tasteful interior integrates modern design into this stylish historical setting. They serve a fusion of German and French cuisine, including dishes such as steak tartare “à la Wilhelm”, coq au vin with hand-made spaetzle, moules-frites, andKönigsberger Klopse (meatballs) made from veal. Head next door to Deli & Café Alexander for sandwiches, bowls, pasta etc.”
Concluding our time at Wilhelm in Berlin, the echoes of German gastronomy resonate. With its unique blend of flavours and the vibrant energy of the city, Wilhelm leaves an indelible mark, paving the way for further discoveries in our German culinary adventure.
Continuing our journey through German culinary delights, our next stop is Lou im Cavalierhaus in Cottbus. As the second chapter unfolds, this restaurant welcomes you to an oasis of flavours, where the essence of Cottbus combines with culinary artistry for an unforgettable dining experience.
Here is what Michelin’s guide had to say about it:
“The estate is worth a visit in its own right. Along with the palace, there is the 620ha Branitz Park, landscaped by Prince Hermann von Pückler in the 19C. Lou (a nickname given to Prince Pückler) is an elegant restaurant housed in the smart Kavaliersbau (squire’s lodge). Here, chef-patron Tim Sillack serves up a modern and seasonal take on classic cuisine, drawing on international influences, cf. his saddle of venison with chanterelles, Lieblingsbrot and wild berries. The chef also refers to the prince’s own recipes, creating a link between past and present. The Pücklereis (Neapolitan ice cream) – something of a signature dessert – is a permanent feature of the menu. There are also three tastefully furnished guestrooms for overnight stays.”
As we bid farewell to Lou im Cavalierhaus in Cottbus, the lingering taste of its culinary wonders stays with us. The historical setting, combined with the delectable offerings, leaves a lasting impression, setting the stage for the final leg of our German culinary adventure.
Our German culinary journey concludes in the charming town of Andernach, where YOSO awaits with open arms. As the third and final stop on our adventure, YOSO promises not just a meal, but a symphony of flavours, blending modern culinary artistry with the warmth of German hospitality.
Here is what Michelin’s guide had to say about it:
“Born in South Korea, raised in Sweden and trained in the art of French cuisine, Peter Fridén, formerly head chef at Karlsruher’s TAWA YAMA FINE, has been shaped by three culinary cultures. At YOSO, he combines Asian-Japanese, Scandinavian and French influences in his New Nordic Japanese Cuisine. Made using top-quality ingredients, an intriguing, soulful and innovative blend of textures and contrasts is presented, for example, in the halibut and scallop served with spinach, koji beurre blanc and fermented gooseberry. The set menu can comprise four, five or six courses, including vegetarian options. The dedicated and friendly service team will gladly talk you through the dishes in detail – including the chefs. In addition, the restaurant of Hotel am Ochsentor in the historical centre of Andernach boasts a sleek modern urban interior with a Far Eastern feel.”
Wrapping up our exploration at YOSO in Andernach, the echoes of delightful tastes linger. The modern twist to traditional German flavours, combined with the welcoming ambiance, leaves a lasting impression, marking the end of our delicious tour through the diverse landscapes of Michelin starred restaurants in Germany.
Transitioning from the heart of Germany to the charming landscapes of Belgium, our culinary exploration kicks off with Table Vaccin in Oostmalle. This marks the beginning of our Belgian exploration, where the restaurant invites you into a world of culinary delights, blending traditional Belgian flavours with a touch of modern innovation.
Here is what Michelin’s guide had to say about it:
“Veteran chef Ivan Daelemans is equally at home with classical Belgian, Gallic and Italian cuisine. His impressive culinary skill can be sampled in the magnificent former home of a doctor, done up in a modern vein. The dishes are intended to be shared, but you can order individual portions. As you dig into timeless classics such as vitello tonnato, tomatoes stuffed with shrimps or a perfect poached egg, served with a light mousseline, al dente asparagus and hand-shelled shrimps, you remember why such dishes remain so popular. Even better when washed down with a fine glass of wine – the perfect vaccine for foodies!”
As we bid adieu to Table Vaccin in Oostmalle, the tapestry of Belgian flavours unfolds. The melding of culinary craftsmanship with the spirit of the region leaves a vibrant imprint, setting the stage for our continued exploration of the Belgian culinary landscape.
Continuing our culinary exploration in Belgium, we find ourselves at l’Impératif d’Éole in Quévy-le-Grand. This is our second stop among the Belgian delights, where the restaurant invites you into a realm of exquisite flavours and culinary mastery, offering a distinct experience in the heart of Belgium.
Here is what Michelin’s guide had to say about it:
“The handsome winery of Chant d’Éole is famous in particular for its splendid sparkling wines. Benoît Neusy has opted for a gastronomic slant in this restaurant, where a gold-leafed ornamental tree and glazed wine cellar catch the eye, and which also boasts a roof-top terrace. The Franco-Belgian wine list is perfectly paired with chef Neusy’s delicate craftsmanship, liberally influenced by his globetrotting past. Grey shrimps bear witness to his passion for the North Sea, while the tuna is enhanced by a distinctly Asian spin. The desserts embody his love of the terroir. An enduring culinary tale of creativity and know-how.”
As our time at l’Impératif d’Éole in Quévy-le-Grand comes to a close, the symphony of Belgian tastes resonates. The marriage of flavours and the unique culinary approach create a memorable dining experience, paving the way for the final chapter in our Belgian culinary journey.
Concluding our Belgian culinary odyssey, we arrive at Magma in Liège. This marks the third and final chapter in our exploration of Belgian flavours, where Magma beckons with a unique fusion of tastes and a vibrant ambiance, offering a delightful finale to our journey through the heart of Belgium.
Here is what Michelin’s guide had to say about it:
“It is heaven to spend time in this hip, upbeat eatery. Tom Foguenne has creatively sourced a lineup of local organic produce out of which he crafts mind-blowing flavours. He might mix smoked trout and tomato with subtly spicy oils, served with fried chickpeas and cream of yoghurt. Each dish is steeped in unusual tastes and savours, further enhanced by the knockout organic, natural wine list. Instinctive cuisine and a frequently changing menu.”
As we bid farewell to Magma in Liège, the echoes of its distinctive flavours linger. The innovative culinary palette and the lively atmosphere create a lasting impression, wrapping up our adventure through Michelin starred restaurants in Belgium.
Venturing into the Netherlands, our culinary exploration begins at Nazka in Amsterdam. As the first of our three Dutch destinations, Nazka invites you into a world of culinary delight, where flavours intertwine with the vibrant spirit of Amsterdam.
Here is what Michelin’s guide had to say about it:
“You might, for a moment, feel as if you have stumbled across a wine cellar, but you will soon see that this hip South American eatery is very much at home in this cosmopolitan city. Nazka unleashes a whirlwind of bold flavours on your palate, from pisco cocktails to ceviche and other Peruvian specialities. This is exhilarating cuisine featuring a captivating interplay of spicy and sweet chilli peppers, Asian umami and the zing of leche del tigre. The well-curated selection of wines from around the globe adds extra character to this unique dining experience.”
Concluding our experience at Nazka in Amsterdam, the Dutch flavours continue to dance on the palate. With its unique culinary offerings and the dynamic atmosphere of the city, Nazka sets the stage for further discoveries in our Dutch culinary journey. Transitioning from Belgium to the Netherlands, we immerse ourselves in a new tapestry of tastes and traditions.
Continuing our Dutch culinary journey, we arrive at Dokjard in Groningen. As our second stop in the Netherlands, Dokjard promises a delightful fusion of flavours against the backdrop of the charming city of Groningen, offering a unique dining experience in our exploration.
Here is what Michelin’s guide had to say about it:
“Set in a former warehouse by the picturesque Noorderhaven, this relaxed “brew-bistro” offers a delightful blend of pub atmosphere and attentive service. When you first enter, you will be greeted by the aroma of freshly brewed beer and the sight of towering brewing kettles. The kitchen team pushes the boundaries, effortlessly weaving between the classic and creative. From steak tartare with an Asian twist to melt-in-your-mouth pork cheeks with dukkah and sesame seeds, this cuisine is vibrant and imaginative. The house beers perfectly complement the dishes, adding a personal touch. What a place!”
Wrapping up our time at Dokjard in Groningen, the distinctive Dutch tastes linger in the air. The culinary finesse and the city’s vibrant ambiance create a lasting impression, setting the stage for our final Dutch culinary adventure.
Concluding our Dutch culinary expedition, we find ourselves at Zenith in Apeldoorn. As our third and final stop in the Netherlands, Zenith invites you to a world where culinary excellence meets the serene ambiance of Apeldoorn, offering a flavoursome finale to our exploration of Dutch delights.
Here is what Michelin’s guide had to say about it:
“Set in a former warehouse by the picturesque Noorderhaven, this relaxed “brew-bistro” offers a delightful blend of pub atmosphere and attentive service. When you first enter, you will be greeted by the aroma of freshly brewed beer and the sight of towering brewing kettles. The kitchen team pushes the boundaries, effortlessly weaving between the classic and creative. From steak tartare with an Asian twist to melt-in-your-mouth pork cheeks with dukkah and sesame seeds, this cuisine is vibrant and imaginative. The house beers perfectly complement the dishes, adding a personal touch. What a place!”
As we say our farewells to Zenith in Apeldoorn, the echoes of Dutch flavours resonate. The culinary journey through this charming city leaves a lasting imprint, wrapping up our adventure through the diverse landscapes of the Michelin starred restaurants in the Netherlands
What an incredible journey it’s been! The delectable flavours from all these European culinary delights have left me absolutely famished. If you find yourself in the same boat and are craving a top-notch dining experience, don’t hesitate to reach out! We’d be thrilled to arrange your reservations and take care of every detail for your evening, from start to finish – including transportation to and from the restaurant. After all, why should the luxury experience be confined to just what’s on your plate?
