A vegan establishment in London has made history by becoming the first restaurant in the UK to earn a Michelin star.
At an award ceremony held in Glasgow on Monday, several other restaurants, including one located within The Ritz hotel in London, were also recognized with stars.
In total, nine eateries in the capital received their inaugural stars, among them Plates London on Old Street, which offers a completely plant-based menu.
Chef Kirk Haworth captivated the judges by skillfully blending his classical training with innovative vegan interpretations, as noted by Michelin.
When asked what he appreciates most about vegan cooking during the event, Mr. Haworth remarked, “Eliminating that word embodies everything I love about it. It’s all about flavor; that’s what matters. Flavor, excitement, innovation, and pushing the boundaries of deliciousness.”
The judges commended the restaurant’s “organic, earthy ambiance” and “inviting warm tones.”
The Ritz Restaurant on Piccadilly was described by the judges as “at the pinnacle of its performance,” receiving two stars for its ability to transform classical dishes with fresh originality and modern twists.
Humble Chicken in Soho was awarded a second star for its “exciting cuisine.”
Oma, a Greek restaurant located in Borough Market on London’s South Bank, earned its first star after previously being named Opening of the Year.
Chef Jorge Paredes expressed his joy, stating, “I am absolutely thrilled. It feels like a dream fulfilled for me. It’s taken a long time for me to demonstrate my capabilities, but now I am really happy.”
Moor Hall, situated in the village of Aughton in Lancashire, achieved its third star, becoming only the tenth restaurant in the UK and Ireland to reach this prestigious mark.
In total, this year’s awards recognized 22 new restaurants with their first Michelin stars, including three in Ireland and two in Scotland, while Gorse in Cardiff became the first restaurant in Wales’s capital to achieve this honor.
This event coincided with the Michelin Guide’s celebration of its 125th anniversary.
Gwendal Poullennec, the international director, expressed pride in this landmark achievement, stating, “It’s an occasion to honor the fundamental values that have defined our identity since 1900—discovering exceptional culinary talent, highlighting local food culture, and celebrating life’s most significant moments, whether gathered around the dining table with loved ones, experienced in a hotel during a well-deserved break, or as part of life’s grand festivities.”
