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October 8, 2019

Led by South African chef Conor Toomey, Condita in Edinburgh gained its first star while Isle of Eriska Hotel regained a star with Chef Graeme Cheevers leading the kitchen brigade.

Restaurant Andrew Fairlie at Gleneagles Hotel kept its two star rating for the 13th year in a row. The restaurant's eponymous chef and founder died earlier this year.

Paul Kitching's 21212 Restaurant in Edinburgh lost the Michelin star it had held since 2010.

Scotland now has eleven Michelin stars. In addition to the two stars held by Restaurant Andrew Fairlie, a further nine restaurants have one star.

After Condita and Isle of Eriska hotel, these are The Cellar in Anstruther; Braidwoods in Dalry; Number One at Balmoral; the Kitchin and Restaurant Martin Wishart in Edinburgh; the Peat Inn at Cupar; and Loch Bay at Stein, Skye, all retained their star.

Although the new Michelin Guide is always sad news for those who have lost an award or feel overlooked by the inspectors, this year seems to show that, despite challenges, the more ambitious end of the restaurant market is surviving and some restaurants are thriving.

Boom year for stars

There is no denying that Britain has had a poor reputation for food in the past. There is also no denying that the restaurant landscape has changed beyond all recognition over the last forty or so years.

There are now 187 Michelin-starred restaurants in Great Britain including one new three star restaurant, four new two stars and 23 new one stars.

As we point out in the blog pretty much every year, not everyone thinks that the Michelin Guide merits the importance it has.

As we also point out on a regular basis, there may be arguments for and against the star system but pretty much every chef has dreamed of being named a Michelin star chef.

Congratulations to everyone who gained or retained an award.

Big Deal at Isle of Eriska Hotel

Before we sign off, we're just going to mention that we have a Big Deal on an overnight stay at Isle of Eriska Hotel.

Ideal if you want a very convenient excuse to book into the hotel.

Chef Graeme Cheevers receiving his award.

Chef Graeme Cheevers receiving his award.