As the excitement builds for the forthcoming MICHELIN Guide Ceremony for Great Britain & Ireland on Monday, February 5th, 2024, much like the anticipation for uncovering new levels in the dog house megaways, we are delighted to showcase the 20 newly honored Bib Gourmand restaurants. This accolade, named after Bibendum, the iconic Michelin Man, celebrates eateries renowned for their remarkable quality and value, offering culinary delights that stand out in the gastronomic landscape.
Exploring Manchester’s Culinary Gems
Let’s begin our gastronomic journey in the vibrant city of Manchester, which plays host to this year’s MICHELIN Guide Ceremony. One standout addition to the city’s culinary scene is Higher Ground, a charming restaurant managed by a trio of friends. Here, you’ll be treated to warm and welcoming service alongside a delectable selection of full-flavored small plates.
If you’re seeking equally enticing yet reasonably priced dishes with a pub-like flair, venture a bit further south to The Reindeer in Hoveringham. Classics like fish & chips and venison pie are elevated to new heights thanks to the chefs’ exceptional skills.
Heading to Essex, you’ll find The Three Horseshoes in Fordham, offering a characterful and rustic ambiance. The carefully prepared and attractively presented dishes make for a delightful pub dining experience. Meanwhile, in Bury St Edmunds, Lark takes a modern approach to sharing plates, expertly crafting dishes that showcase well-judged flavors.
London’s Global Culinary Delights
In the heart of London, the newly awarded Bib Gourmands offer a more global perspective on cuisine. Les 2 Garçons, a classic French bistro now in larger premises in Crouch End, serves beloved dishes like French onion soup and steak frites with an infectious sense of joie de vivre.
For a taste of Punjab and Northwest India, head to Empire Empire in Notting Hill, where you’ll encounter intriguing dishes bursting with freshness and vitality. Just outside London, in Old Windsor, The Loch & The Tyne, part of the Adam Handling stable, presents reimagined traditional dishes that offer exceptional value, especially given its location.
Venturing further from London, the East Sussex duo of Dill and Palmito await. In Lewes, Dill serves highly inventive and unique dishes inspired by global influences, always maintaining an authentic touch. Nearby in Hove, Palmito takes a similarly international approach with spice-driven cooking that tantalizes the taste buds.
Coastal Treasures and Rustic Charm
For those seeking coastal culinary delights, head to Cornwall and experience The Mulberry in Falmouth. Here, dishes are exquisitely balanced, expertly crafted, and an absolute joy to savor. Southwest of England, you’ll find The Clifton in Bristol, a neighborhood gem serving rustic and generous dishes, some cooked over an open fire.
For a characterful and historic dining experience, visit The Bull in the picturesque village of Charlbury on the edge of The Cotswolds. Dating back to the 16th century, this establishment offers dishes with understated simplicity, all while delivering on flavor.
Crossing the River Severn, you’ll discover more affordable dining at Penarth’s Touring Club. This sleek and relaxed spot, overseen by Welsh chef Bryn Williams, offers unfussy small plates and a great selection of drinks.
Across the Irish Sea to Culinary Excellence
If your culinary adventure takes you to the Emerald Isle, make your way to Cork to savor Japanese cuisine at Ichigo Ichie Bistro & Natural Wine. This relaxed and accessibly priced restaurant is a new incarnation of the original Ichigo Ichie, where the buzz of contented diners fills the air.
On the west coast, don’t miss the charming town of Dingle, where Solas serves delectable tapas that blend Spanish flavors with Irish produce. Further north in Dublin, La Gordita offers authentic cooking and is one of the three new Bib Gourmands in the Irish capital. Nearby is Amy Austin, where internationally influenced dishes are complemented by free-flowing wine on tap. South of Dublin, in Rathmines, Lottie’s is a lively neighborhood brasserie serving flavorful and unfussy dishes.
Northern Ireland’s Culinary Delights
In Northern Ireland, Home in Belfast reclaims its Bib Gourmand thanks to a new chef and outstanding produce. With extensive menus showcasing delicious dishes at attractive prices, accompanied by friendly service, it promises a warm and welcoming dining experience.
Lastly, we journey back to Scotland, specifically to Edinburgh, where tipo offers house-made pastas that are perfect for sharing. Options like bigoli cacio pepe or pappardelle with crab and chilli are designed to tantalize your taste buds and are served in light, airy surroundings.
In the words of Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of The MICHELIN Guide, “It is a joy to see 20 restaurants newly awarded a Michelin Bib Gourmand in the 2024 edition of The MICHELIN Guide Great Britain & Ireland. These are establishments that deserve recognition for their continued commitment to offering affordable, delicious cooking. The generosity and value for money they offer is wonderful to see during these challenging economic times.”
The MICHELIN Guide Great Britain & Ireland 2024 is available in digital format, both on their website and through the iOS and Android apps. The complete online listings for the Bib Gourmand restaurants will be updated on the evening of February 5th, following The MICHELIN Guide Ceremony, when all the new Michelin Stars, Green Stars, and Special Awards will be announced.