What are Michelin stars?
They are the best known and most highly respected of all restaurant ratings, not just here, but in France where they originated and in many of the 22 countries the guides now cover. One star signifies a very good restaurant Two stars signify excellent cooking that is worth a detour Three stars signify exceptional cuisine that is worth a special journey The Rising Star distinction, introduced in 2006, highlights the best restaurants in each category, which may move up to the next level soon. How many starred restaurants are there in Britain? There have been a record 122 starred eateries in Great Britain and Ireland for two years running. Of these, the vast majority have one star (107), 12 have two stars and just three garner top marks (the Fat Duck, the Waterside Inn and Gordon Ramsay). Why are Michelin stars so important? Restaurant-goers place more trust in them as a mark of quality than any other award or rating. For chefs, Michelin stars are the ultimate accolade. Is there a downsid
