So You Want to Dine Among the Stars (Michelin Stars, That Is): A Guide to London's Fancy Eats
Let's face it, London's got a bit of a reputation for being fancy. From Buckingham Palace to posh accents, it's a city that knows how to do things in style. And that fancy factor extends to its food scene as well. Michelin stars, the little red badge of culinary royalty, are sprinkled across the city like glitter on a cupcake (though hopefully the food itself is a bit more sophisticated).
But just how many Michelin-starred restaurants are we talking about here? Buckle up, foodies, because you're in for a treat (or maybe a multi-course tasting menu, depending on your budget).
The Big Number: How Many Michelin Stars Are Twinkling in London's Sky?
As of June 2024, a whopping 80 restaurants in London boast those coveted Michelin stars. That's right, folks, 80! From French fare to Japanese delights, modern British cuisine to global fusion, there's a Michelin-starred adventure waiting for every palate (as long as your wallet can handle it).
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How Many Michelin Star Restaurants In London |
Three Stars? We've Got Those Too!
Now, not all Michelin stars are created equal. The holy grail is the three-star rating, which signifies "exceptional cuisine, worth a special journey." And London? Well, London doesn't disappoint. As of today, there are a cool six restaurants in the city that have achieved this prestigious honor. So, if you're looking to truly blow your socks off (and maybe your entire savings account), London has you covered.
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But Wait, There's More! A Few Fancy Food Fun Facts
- Did you know that the very first Michelin Guide was published in 1900? Back then, it was just a guide for French motorists, with recommendations for restaurants and gas stations (because, priorities!).
- Those Michelin stars? They're anonymous! A team of secret inspectors visit restaurants multiple times, paying for their meals just like any other customer, before awarding (or not awarding) those coveted stars.
- London might not be the absolute Michelin star champion (that title goes to Tokyo), but it's definitely a heavyweight contender. In Europe, only Paris comes close to the sheer number of Michelin-starred restaurants in our fair city.
Feeling Fancy? How to Navigate London's Michelin-Starred Scene
So, you've decided you want to experience the magic of Michelin-starred dining in London. But hold on to your hats (and possibly your credit cards), because there's a little more to it than just rocking up and ordering a burger. Here are a few quick tips:
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- Book way, way in advance. These restaurants are popular for a reason, and tables get snatched up fast. Be prepared to plan your meal weeks, or even months, ahead of time.
- Dress to impress. While some Michelin-starred restaurants are a touch more relaxed these days, it's always best to err on the side of caution. Think smart casual at the very least.
- Be prepared for a (slightly) different dining experience. Michelin-starred meals are often multi-course tasting menus, with a focus on presentation and innovative flavors. Be adventurous and enjoy the ride!
FAQ: Michelin Munching in the Big Smoke
How to score a table at a Michelin-starred restaurant? Book way in advance! These places are popular, so plan your meal well ahead of time.
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How much does it cost to eat at a Michelin-starred restaurant? Prices vary, but expect to pay a pretty penny. Be prepared for multi-course tasting menus and a higher-than-average bill.
How to dress for a Michelin-starred meal? Smart casual is a good bet. While some restaurants are more relaxed, it's always best to err on the side of being a bit more dressed up.
How many Michelin stars are there in London? As of June 2024, there are a whopping 80 Michelin-starred restaurants in London.
How many restaurants in London have three Michelin stars? There are currently six restaurants in London boasting the prestigious three-star rating.