In a surprising turn, Georges Blanc, the renowned restaurant in France, has lost its third Michelin star—a title it held for 44 years—marking a significant shift in its legacy.
Georges Blanc: World’s Oldest Michelin-Starred Restaurant Loses Its Third Star
Georges Blanc: World’s Oldest Michelin-Starred Restaurant Loses Its Third Star
Historic establishment, renowned for its culinary excellence, adapts to new Michelin ranking changes.
Georges Blanc, the celebrated chef who has overseen the world’s oldest Michelin-starred restaurant, has confirmed that the establishment has lost its third star, as reported by French media. Despite the blow, the 82-year-old chef expressed acceptance of the change, stating, “We weren't expecting it,” and added, “We'll make do with the two stars... maybe we'll be less elitist and a little more accessible.”
Nestled in the charming town of Vonnas, near Lyon, Georges Blanc restaurant first earned one star in 1929 under the guidance of his grandmother Élisa Blanc, maintaining a presence in the esteemed Michelin guide ever since. Georges took the restaurant’s helm in 1964, joining forces with his mother, Paulette, before assuming complete control by the time he was just 25 years old. In 1981, he achieved the coveted three-star rating for the first time, a status the restaurant retained until now.
Gwendal Poullenec, director of the Michelin Guide, noted the organization’s aim to accurately reflect the evolving quality of their rated establishments. He commended Mr. Blanc for transforming a modest family inn into a culinary destination, remarking, “It was truly under his leadership that what was once a family inn experienced a new boom to become this gourmet village.”
As Michelin prepares for its annual star award ceremony later this month, the future of Georges Blanc remains bright. Alongside his flagship restaurant, Mr. Blanc operates several other dining establishments, hotels, and a food shop, ensuring his ongoing influence in the culinary world. Michelin, originally established to encourage road travel for tire sales, has included a star rating system since 1926, evolving into a hallmark of gastronomic achievement worldwide.
Nestled in the charming town of Vonnas, near Lyon, Georges Blanc restaurant first earned one star in 1929 under the guidance of his grandmother Élisa Blanc, maintaining a presence in the esteemed Michelin guide ever since. Georges took the restaurant’s helm in 1964, joining forces with his mother, Paulette, before assuming complete control by the time he was just 25 years old. In 1981, he achieved the coveted three-star rating for the first time, a status the restaurant retained until now.
Gwendal Poullenec, director of the Michelin Guide, noted the organization’s aim to accurately reflect the evolving quality of their rated establishments. He commended Mr. Blanc for transforming a modest family inn into a culinary destination, remarking, “It was truly under his leadership that what was once a family inn experienced a new boom to become this gourmet village.”
As Michelin prepares for its annual star award ceremony later this month, the future of Georges Blanc remains bright. Alongside his flagship restaurant, Mr. Blanc operates several other dining establishments, hotels, and a food shop, ensuring his ongoing influence in the culinary world. Michelin, originally established to encourage road travel for tire sales, has included a star rating system since 1926, evolving into a hallmark of gastronomic achievement worldwide.
