Georges Blanc, the historic restaurant in Vonnas, France, has recently lost its coveted third Michelin star after an impressive 44-year run, marking a significant moment in culinary history.
World's Oldest Michelin-Starred Restaurant Faces Reduction in Stars
World's Oldest Michelin-Starred Restaurant Faces Reduction in Stars
Venerable French dining landmark Georges Blanc loses one star, shifting its long-held Michelin status.
In a surprising turn of events, the world’s oldest Michelin-starred restaurant, Georges Blanc, has been downgraded from three stars to two according to reports from French media. Chef Georges Blanc, now 82 years old, expressed his surprise to the AFP news agency, stating, "We weren't expecting it." He added that the restaurant would continue to thrive with its two stars and hinted at a potential shift towards a more inclusive dining experience: "maybe we'll be less elitist and a little more accessible."
Located in Vonnas, just outside Lyon, the restaurant first earned a Michelin star in 1929, bestowed under the guidance of Georges’ grandmother, Élisa Blanc. Georges took over management of the restaurant in 1964 alongside his mother Paulette, officially assuming full control by the age of 25. Over the years, he elevated the restaurant's status, achieving a third Michelin star in 1981, maintaining this elite ranking until the recent change.
Gwendal Poullenec, director of the Michelin Guide, emphasized the importance of reflecting the actual quality of dining experiences in their rankings. He praised Georges Blanc's significant contribution to transforming the establishment from a modest family inn into a renowned gastronomic destination. "It was truly under his leadership that what was once a family inn experienced a new boom," Poullenec remarked.
Beyond the iconic Georges Blanc restaurant, Chef Blanc is the proprietor of several other culinary ventures, including hotels and food shops. The Michelin Guide, which was first published in 1900 and introduced its star ranking system in 1926 to promote road travel, is anticipating its annual star award ceremony later this month, where the restaurant community will look forward to more developments in the world of fine dining.
Located in Vonnas, just outside Lyon, the restaurant first earned a Michelin star in 1929, bestowed under the guidance of Georges’ grandmother, Élisa Blanc. Georges took over management of the restaurant in 1964 alongside his mother Paulette, officially assuming full control by the age of 25. Over the years, he elevated the restaurant's status, achieving a third Michelin star in 1981, maintaining this elite ranking until the recent change.
Gwendal Poullenec, director of the Michelin Guide, emphasized the importance of reflecting the actual quality of dining experiences in their rankings. He praised Georges Blanc's significant contribution to transforming the establishment from a modest family inn into a renowned gastronomic destination. "It was truly under his leadership that what was once a family inn experienced a new boom," Poullenec remarked.
Beyond the iconic Georges Blanc restaurant, Chef Blanc is the proprietor of several other culinary ventures, including hotels and food shops. The Michelin Guide, which was first published in 1900 and introduced its star ranking system in 1926 to promote road travel, is anticipating its annual star award ceremony later this month, where the restaurant community will look forward to more developments in the world of fine dining.
