World's Oldest Michelin-Starred Restaurant Faces Star Reduction

Sat May 10 2025 19:10:28 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)
World's Oldest Michelin-Starred Restaurant Faces Star Reduction

Georges Blanc, the iconic restaurant, loses one prestigious Michelin star, marking a historic shift.


The renowned Georges Blanc restaurant, recognized as the world's oldest Michelin-starred establishment, has officially lost its third star, as reported by French media. Chef Georges Blanc, aged 82, expressed surprise at the news, stating, “We weren't expecting it.” The restaurant, nestled in Vonnas near Lyon, has a storied legacy, having initially received its first star in 1929 under the management of his grandmother, Élisa Blanc. Chef Georges took charge in 1964 and secured the third star in 1981, maintaining this status for over four decades. Gwendal Poullenec, director of the Michelin Guide, commented on the decision, emphasizing the need to “reflect the evolution of the quality of the restaurant in our rankings.” Despite the setback, Chef Blanc seems optimistic, suggesting that two stars might make them “less elitist” and more accessible to diners. The Michelin Guide, which started in 1900 and introduced its star system in 1926, will continue to monitor Georges Blanc's offerings with "kindness" and "rigor." The annual Michelin star ceremony is anticipated at the end of the month, bringing further excitement to the culinary community.

World's Oldest Michelin-Starred Restaurant Faces Star Reduction

Georges Blanc, the iconic restaurant, loses one prestigious Michelin star, marking a historic shift.

The renowned Georges Blanc restaurant, recognized as the world's oldest Michelin-starred establishment, has officially lost its third star, as reported by French media. Chef Georges Blanc, aged 82, expressed surprise at the news, stating, “We weren't expecting it.” The restaurant, nestled in Vonnas near Lyon, has a storied legacy, having initially received its first star in 1929 under the management of his grandmother, Élisa Blanc. Chef Georges took charge in 1964 and secured the third star in 1981, maintaining this status for over four decades. Gwendal Poullenec, director of the Michelin Guide, commented on the decision, emphasizing the need to “reflect the evolution of the quality of the restaurant in our rankings.” Despite the setback, Chef Blanc seems optimistic, suggesting that two stars might make them “less elitist” and more accessible to diners. The Michelin Guide, which started in 1900 and introduced its star system in 1926, will continue to monitor Georges Blanc's offerings with "kindness" and "rigor." The annual Michelin star ceremony is anticipated at the end of the month, bringing further excitement to the culinary community.

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