Michelin Guide presents six Bib Gourmands to Irish restaurants — including Ichigo Ichie
Linehan Ichigo Natural Ichie Picture: Dan Takashi & Bistro At Chef Wine Miyazaki
Chef Takashi Miyazaki’s Michelin gamble seems to be paying off as his newly imagined restaurant in Cork has been awarded a Bib Gourmand.
In December, Miyazaki closed his Michelin-starred restaurant Ichigo Ichie and reopened this month as a more casual dining model.
He cited changing diner habits as well as cost-of-living realities for the reinvention.
“People use our restaurant for very special occasions, but I don’t feel like being that type of place anymore, and I don’t feel like I can charge €140 or €150 anymore [the cost of the set kaiseki menu for one person in the restaurant, not including drinks],” he told the Irish Examiner.
His new pocket-friendly bistro and wine bar has made a positive impression on the Michelin Guide, which awarded it a Bib Gourmand today.
“Ichigo Ichie Bistro & Natural Wine is offering well-prepared Japanese dishes. A new incarnation of the original Ichigo Ichie, this is a more relaxed and accessibly priced restaurant that comes with the bustle of contented diners,” the Guide said.
Reacting on social media, Miyazaki thanked the Michelin Guide for the nod as well as the bistro's customers.
"We are very pleased to gain Michelin Bib Gourmand this morning," he said. "Many thanks to our guests for great support, local growers, producers and our team."
Five other Irish restaurants were highlighted for the honour too, including the “delicious tapas” at Solas in Dingle.
“Spanish flavours mingle with Irish produce in dishes that have been given a fresh spin without losing their identity.”
Three Dublin spots have been mentioned too: La Gordita, Amy Austin, and Lottie’s in Rathmines.
"The Irish capital has had a good year, with three new Bib Gourmands," the Guide said, noting in particular "authentic cooking" and "unfussy dishes packed with flavour".
Moving to Belfast, Home has regained its Bib Gourmand “thanks to a new chef and some terrific produce. The extensive menus include a host of delicious dishes at an attractive price, accompanied by friendly service and a welcoming feel.”
"These are establishments that deserve recognition for their continued commitment to offering affordable, delicious cooking," said Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of The Michelin Guide.
"The generosity and value for money they offer is wonderful to see during these challenging economic times for the restaurant industry."
The Michelin Guide Ceremony takes place in Manchester on February 5, when all of the new Michelin Stars, Green Stars and Special Awards will be announced.