Devonshire Road restaurant receives much anticipated accolade

Michelin has awarded one star to Devonshire Road’s La Trompette in its 2008 guide published this week.

The highly regarded Chiswick restaurant joined Rhodes W1, Quilon, Hibiscus and Wild Honey as the newly starred establishments of the food industry’s bible.

However, no restaurants were promoted to two or three stars by Michelin and others lost their star altogether.

“We're not going to create awards just to gain publicity,'' said Derek Bulmer, editor of the guide, “We didn't find anywhere that deserved to gain a second or third star this year.”

Michelin state that stars are awarded solely on the basis of the food on the plate. Quality of the ingredients; the skill of the preparation; the harmony of the flavors; the creativity of the chef; consistency; and value for money are all taken into account.

According to food industry publication Caterer:

One-Michelin-star: A very good restaurant or pub in its category
The star indicates a good place to stop on your journey. But beware of comparing the star given to an expensive de luxe establishment with that of a simple restaurant where you can appreciate fine cooking at a reasonable price.

Two-Michelin-star: Excellent cooking, worth a detour
Specialities and wines of first class quality. This will be reflected in the price

Three-Michelin-star: Exceptional cuisine, worth a special journey
One always eats here extremely well, sometimes superbly. Fine wines, faultless service, elegant surroundings. One will pay accordingly.

Gordon Ramsay on Royal Hospital Road remains London’s only restaurant with Michelin’s top accolade.

January 24, 2008