The 2026 Michelin Guide ceremony, held for the first time in Dublin, brought mixed news for the culinary world, with no new three-star restaurants announced across Great Britain and Ireland. However, London establishments emerged as significant winners, securing major upgrades that highlight the capital's vibrant dining scene.
London's Culinary Triumphs
Despite the absence of new three-star additions, London made a strong impression with two restaurants elevated to two-star status. Row on 5, located at 5 Savile Row in Mayfair and opened in 2024, offers a 15-course tasting menu focused on British produce. The restaurant also received individual honours, with sommelier Roxane Dupuy named Sommelier of the Year, an award presented by celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay.
Bonheur by Matt Abé, a contemporary French restaurant in Mayfair that launched in November 2025, also achieved two-star recognition. Founded by former Restaurant Gordon Ramsay head chef Matt Abé, this establishment has quickly gained acclaim for its high-end offerings.
Retained Excellence in South West London
The Dysart Petersham in Richmond upon Thames successfully retained its Michelin star, reinforcing its growing reputation across the UK and Europe. Managing director Barny Taylor emphasised the restaurant's commitment to quality, stating that their guests expect the finest seasonal ingredients, dishes, drinks, and service. He attributed the star renewal to consistency, absolute commitment, reliability, refined judgement in food and wine, focus on natural flavour, and creativity by hand.
National Recognition Beyond London
Across Great Britain and Ireland, twenty restaurants received their first Michelin star, showcasing diverse culinary talent. Notable newcomers include:
- Fifty Two at Rudding Park in Harrogate, known for its innovative "Dessert Islands Discs" where guests select music during their meal. Chef Adam Degg described the team's approach as trying to create a party atmosphere in the restaurant.
- Mare by Rafael Cagali became Brighton and Hove's first Michelin-starred restaurant in nearly fifty years.
- The Pullman in Galway, housed in two restored Orient Express carriages, earned its first star.
- The Wilderness in Birmingham received its inaugural star, with chef Alexander Claridge noting that while the city doesn't take itself too seriously, it maintains serious dedication to food.
- Forest Avenue in Dublin joined the one-star list, with John Wyer expressing that loving what they do makes their work feel easy.
Special Awards and Green Stars
The ceremony also celebrated various special awards. Tom Earnshaw of Bohemia on Jersey received the 2026 Young Chef Award, citing inspiration from walking his dog on the beach as one of the benefits of island life. Sebb's in Glasgow centre won the Exceptional Cocktail Award, while Shwen Shwen in Kent was named Opening of the Year for bringing Sierra Leonean flavours to Sevenoaks.
Barbara Nealon of Saint Francis Provisions in Kinsale, Co Cork, received the Service Award from Gordon Ramsay, quipping that great service simply involves liking your customers. Additionally, seven restaurants were awarded green stars for embracing responsible and mindful gastronomic approaches.
In a video address, Michelin Guide international director Gwendal Poullennec described the Dublin ceremony as a historic event for Irish hospitality, recognising not only exceptional cooking but also the people, places, and passion defining Irish food culture.
