This is a subscriber-only article
Like a nonchalant teenager, we were secretly hoping and being cautiously optimistic that this would be the year. The year that an Irish restaurant would finally take home the Michelin three stars.
Jordan Bailey of Aimsir had already broken the mould in 2019, being awarded Michelin two stars within five months of opening. And our hopes were high.
Alas, it wasn’t to be, but that doesn’t mean there wasn’t plenty of celebrations among other top Irish eateries.
Chapter One by Mickael Viljanen moved from one to two stars, proving that the Finnish-born chef's fresh approach to one of Dublin’s most celebrated restaurants is certainly hitting the mark.
Experience
Australian chef Damien Grey of Liath in Blackrock also proved this his intimate dining experience is worthy of the coveted awards.
Another intimate neighbourhood restaurant was also celebrating its promotion to one star, Bastible on Clanbrassil Street, while Glover Alley, run by Andy McFadden, now also has a star to match its prime location on St Stephens Green.
Bib Gourman awards
The Bib Gourman awards celebrate more relaxed dining experiences and there were also some new Irish additions in this category.
Family-owned Cush in Ballycotton was applauded for its hearty dishes featuring local Cork produce, along with artisan bakery, restaurant and wine bar Éan in Galway and proudly run bistro Everett’s in Waterford.
SHARING OPTIONS: