A recent ceremony in Dublin has unveiled the Michelin Guide Great Britain & Ireland 2026, marking a year of stability and celebration for the culinary scene. With 20 new one-star restaurants and two new two-star establishments, the evening was a testament to the excellence and diversity of dining across the region. Notably, no restaurants lost their status this year, solidifying the reputation of established eateries while welcoming fresh talent into the fold.
A Night of Celebration in Dublin
Held on 9 February, the awards ceremony was hosted by Lisa Hogan, famed for her role in Clarkson’s Farm, alongside racing driver and presenter Amanda Stretton. Michelin’s international director, Gwendal Poullennec, praised the rich tapestry of Ireland’s food culture, setting an appreciative tone for the evening.
The highlight of the event? All ten three-star establishments in the UK retained their prestigious status. This includes the iconic Restaurant Gordon Ramsay, which continues to shine under the guidance of new head chef Kim Ratcharoen. The Michelin star system serves as a beacon for diners, aiming to guide rather than judge—one star signifies high-quality cooking worthy of a stop, two stars indicate excellent cuisine worth a detour, and three stars represent exceptional culinary artistry deserving of a special journey.
Noteworthy New Additions
Among the most talked-about promotions this year, two restaurants made the leap from one star to two. Jason Atherton’s Row on 5, led by Spencer Metzger, was recognised for its sophisticated fine dining, while Bonheur, which opened just last November, catapulted straight into the guide at two stars. Bonheur is part of the Gordon Ramsay group, marking a significant achievement for former head chef Matt Abé, further enhancing Ramsay’s influence in the upper echelons of the guide.
The new one-star additions showcased London’s culinary prowess, with newcomers such as Legado, where Nieves Barragán Mohacho curates regional Spanish flavours, and Somssi, offering Korean-influenced fine dining at the Mandarin Oriental Mayfair. The Michelin Guide is also evolving, embracing elevated pub formats, as seen with the recognition of The Kerfield Arms.
Regional Breakthroughs and Sustainability Focus
This year’s guide also celebrated significant regional breakthroughs. JÖRO in Sheffield became the city’s first Michelin-starred restaurant, showcasing innovative British cuisine rooted in local produce. Meanwhile, Brighton celebrated its first star in nearly half a century with Mare, led by Rafael Cagali, who has revitalised the south coast’s dining scene.
In a notable expansion of its sustainability efforts, the guide acknowledged seven new Green Stars this year, including Knepp Wilding Kitchen in West Sussex and Forest Side in the Lake District. The focus on ecological responsibility reflects a growing trend in the culinary world, where chefs are not only concerned about taste but also about the impact of their practices.
Gender Representation and Future Challenges
Despite the evening’s many triumphs, the issue of gender representation in the Michelin star rankings remains a concern. Only about 8% of Michelin-starred chefs in the UK are women, a statistic that casts a shadow over progress in an industry that is still striving for inclusivity. While this year saw notable women like Nieves Barragán Mohacho and Clare Smyth receive recognition, there is still a long way to go in achieving balance and equity within the culinary arts.
Why it Matters
The Michelin Guide’s latest edition is more than just an annual list; it reflects the evolving landscape of British and Irish gastronomy. By recognising both established institutions and emerging talents, it highlights a commitment to quality, diversity, and sustainability in dining. As culinary standards continue to rise and the geographic spread of Michelin stars expands, the guide serves as a vital resource for diners, encouraging exploration and appreciation of the rich culinary heritage across the UK and Ireland.
