Following the launch of the MICHELIN Guide Great Britain and Ireland 2022 in February, our Inspectors went straight back out on the road searching for more new restaurants worthy of a place in the MICHELIN Guide.
As always, the Stars, Bib Gourmands and Green Stars will be unveiled at an annual launch ceremony but, once a month, from now until then, the Michelin Inspectors will reveal some of their favourite new additions to the Guide.
These newly recommended restaurants feature both on the website and the app, and they’re easy to spot, as they’re highlighted by a ‘New’ symbol. Some of them will go on to earn distinctions at the Michelin Star Revelation ceremony, so why not give them a try and see which ones would be on your shortlist?
For April, we are pleased to share five of the inspectors' favourite new additions...
Barnacle
Barnacle, Liverpool
Barnacle occupies the mezzanine level of Duke Street Market. Not only is it located above the food stalls but it’s also a level above when it comes to its cooking. The room is a great fit for the rustic market surroundings, with the decoration a reference to the area’s former rope-making businesses. It describes itself as a ‘Scouse brasserie’ and the short menu name-checks many local suppliers, while the modern dishes having a refined, local flavour. Start with one of the Liverpudlian gins and, at weekends, enjoy the live music drifting up from the food hall below.
Heritage Dulwich
Heritage Dulwich, London
Over the years, Dayashankar Sharma has headed up the kitchens of many of London’s best Indian restaurants, but now he has his own place, where he works alongside his son Anmol… and a smart suburban shopping parade in the leafy surroundings of West Dulwich was the lucky chosen location. Heritage is key to the cooking here and the skilfully prepared dishes are knowledgably balanced, well-spiced and packed with authentic Indian flavours. You’ll find all the dishes you know and love – the tiger prawns are not to be missed. If you don’t have time to stop, they also own nearby Jhakaas takeaway.
The Gunroom, Plas Dinas Country House
The Gunroom, Bontnewydd
Plas Dinas Country House dates back to the 17C and was once the home of Lord Snowdon. It’s a cosy place, especially the oldest part of the building – The Gunroom – which houses the original stone fireplace that was once the heart of the home. Elegantly laid, linen-clad tables contribute to the country house vibe, and service – including from the hands-on owner – is smooth and friendly. Chef Daniel ap Geraint is well-known in the area and his concise, monthly changing menu highlights Welsh produce using classical techniques and subtle hints of modernity. Dinner is served in two sittings at either 6pm or 8pm, and they also offer afternoon tea.
The Old Couch Café
The Old Couch Café, Waterford
Set in the Cultural Quarter of Waterford, this tiny 6-table restaurant has a boho vibe courtesy of dim lighting, black walls and eclectic finds; its unusual name comes from the old couch left behind by the previous owners, which now resides above the front door. Their strapline is “something new, something old, something foraged”, and this ethos is reflected throughout. Owners Damira Levacic (Croatian) and Przemyslaw Muszynski (Polish) fuse their heritages with local ingredients to create an original 10 course menu with a choice of two starters, mains and desserts; the latter being a highlight. Their signature mead cocktails are also not be missed.
Zahter
Zahter, London
Tucked away off Carnaby Street is this smart, boldly decorated restaurant which offers interesting Turkish dishes cooked on the chargrill or in the wood-burning oven. Get up close to the action with a seat at the marble kitchen counter or head upstairs for a quieter atmosphere. Cooking is packed with flavour, from the oven-fresh breads to the hot and cold mezze, and the large platters which are great for sharing. Accompany these with one of their Turkish wines to really complete the experience. Alternatively, come in the morning and start the day a different way with a Turkish breakfast. The friendly team run the place well and there’s always a good atmosphere to be found here.
Discover which restaurants were added to the Great Britain & Ireland Guide in March...
