For many of us, there’s nothing better than spending time with family. And, for some, that means not just in their leisure time but in their working life too. We take a closer look at some of the Michelin Inspectors' favourite family-run restaurants, from Michelin Plates through to Michelin Stars.
First up, is a new addition to the guide…
The Shed by James Sommerin, Barry, Wales
Father and daughter James and Georgia renew their working partnership at their recently opened restaurant in a former goods shed close to Barry Docks. It has an eye-catching faux industrial style and the service is wonderfully friendly. Menus offer appealing dishes with well-thought-through combinations and punchy flavours.
Curry Corner, Cheltenham, England – Michelin Plate
Set in a Regency townhouse, this iconic restaurant has been proudly run for over 40 years by Shamsul Krori and his wife Saleha – and they are now joined by their daughter Monrusha. The level of care that goes into their dishes is wonderful, with beautiful flavours enhanced using their own daily roasted herbs and spices.
Dartmoor Inn, Lydford, England – Michelin Plate
A warm welcome is guaranteed from Jay, Tess, Andrew and Jo, who took over this modern dining pub on the edge of the spectacular Dartmoor National Park in 2019. Hearty pub lunches satisfy the Dartmoor walkers – and their canine companions are welcome too – while carefully prepared, flavourful dinners and comfy bedrooms are perfect for weary travellers.
Osteria, North Berwick, England – Michelin Plate
This snug little place was opened by Angelo in 2006 and he continues to welcome all his guests as if they were regulars. His daughter, Daniela, runs the kitchen – along with her husband – and the dishes are inspired by her grandmother’s homely Italian recipes… although you’ll also come across some intersting Scottish twists.
Sapori, Anstey, England – Michelin Plate
Set in a former working men’s club, Sapori (meaning ‘flavours’), is run by chef Andrea, his wife Cristina and bother in law Luigi, who looks after the service. Andrea is a native of Naples and his full-flavoured dishes are influenced and inspired by his heritage, with everything from the breads to the desserts homemade.
Ahernes, Youghal, Republic of Ireland – Michelin Plate
Opened in 1923 by Madge and Jimmy, Ahernes originally operated as a pub and shop, selling everything from butter to Guinness. Their daughter Betty and her husband later created the restaurant – and now Betty’s sons, John and David, along with their wives, oversee the running of this iconic place. The restaurant specialises in seafood landed in the nearby harbour, as well as locally bred beef and lamb – and comfy bedrooms complete the package.
Lemon Tree, Letterkenny, Republic of Ireland – Michelin Plate
Set in the heart of this Donegal town, the Lemon Tree makes the perfect stopping off point when exploring the west coast of Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way. Here, the Molloy family – brothers, sisters and cousins – work together with local producers, suppliers and brewers, to create dishes with wonderful seasonal elements and a contemporary Irish style.
Prashad, Drighlington, England – Michelin Bib Gourmand
Prashad was established in a Bradford back street in 1992, before moving to its present location in 2012 – and throughout that time has been serving wonderful Gujarati-inspired food to the locals. Set up by the Patel family, it is now overseen by the founders’ son, Bobby, with his wife Minal in the kitchen – and their enthusiasm runs through every dish they serve.
Nut Tree, Murcott, England – One Michelin Star
Mike North and his younger sister Mary look after the kitchen at this quintessentially English pub set off the beaten track in rural Oxfordshire – while Mike’s other half, Imogen, ensures everything runs smoothly out front. It’s a hugely characterful place, with a ‘local’ feel to the bar and a smart dining area. They rear their own pigs and grow their own veg, which feature in hearty dishes with a refined edge.
The Crown, Burchetts Green, England – One Michelin Star
As family owned and run restaurants go, this sweet, homely pub is up there with the best of them. The Bonwicks make a wonderful team, with amiable dad Simon in the kitchen and his welcoming children in the dining room – and they run the place with passion and pride. Superb value menus comprise well-honed, classically based dishes which burst with flavour.
