Michelin Guide UK 2026: Chef reactions from Dublin
The Michelin Guide Great Britain & Ireland 2026 ceremony in Dublin delivered some of the most talked-about moments of the year, with major promotions, standout performances and emotional reactions from chefs across the industry.
Among the headline stories of the night were Matt Abé earning two Michelin stars for Bonheur just months after opening, and Row on 5 being promoted to two stars for Jason Atherton and Spencer Metzger, while 20 new restaurants entered at one-star level.
- Round-up: Matt Abé and Row on 5 among big winners at Michelin Guide UK 2026
- Read more: The full list of Michelin-starred restaurants for 2026
Here are some reactions from those who were recognised on the night.
Matt Abé, Bonheur by Matt Abé, two Michelin stars
On arriving in Dublin, Matt Abé said he had kept expectations firmly in check.
“I didn’t have any expectations. I was just happy to be invited. What we’ve earnt is phenomenal, amazing. It’s a testament to the team and all the hard work they’ve put in over the last few months.”
Having taken full ownership of his first solo venture, after leaving Restaurant Gordon Ramsay, Matt spoke openly about the responsibility that comes with leading every aspect of the restaurant.
“It’s all on me. The buck stops with me,” he said.
“There’s no-one else to fall to or lean on. The responsibility of guiding the team, managing the business and a responsibility to our guests and community.”
Looking ahead, Matt made no secret of his long-term ambition.
“My aspiration is to achieve three Michelin stars – to create a world-class, world-renowned restaurant,” he said.
“That’s the pure goal. And to continue to build and nurture young talent and continue that legacy that I think was really set in place by the Rouxs, over all those years at Le Gavroche.
“Building those amazing individuals that have then gone on to do great things. That’s just something that I want to carry forwards and be a part of – people to go on and achieve their own stars one day and become restaurateurs, general managers and sommeliers.”
Jason Atherton and Spencer Metzger, Row on 5, two Michelin stars
Row on 5’s promotion to two Michelin stars marked another significant milestone for Jason Atherton and Spencer Metzger, following the restaurant’s opening and rapid rise.
For Jason, the focus has always been firmly on the guest experience.
“We’re not here just for the stars, we’re here for our guests,” said Jason.
“I’ve always said to Spencer when we’ve worked together – when the guests walk out of here saying this is now one of their favourite restaurants not just in the UK but in the world, it’s when we’ve started to achieve our goal.
“I saw that happening in months two, three and four at every table. I said if we do that, this restaurant is destined for greatness. That’s been the biggest joy this year.”
Spencer reflected on the risk both chefs took in launching the project together, and what the recognition means for their partnership.
“It means everything,” he said.
“All those years ago when me and Jason were talking about this project, starting it and doing it together, it was a risk for him and a risk for me.
“But honestly the partnership, the restaurant, the journey, the memories, what’s to come, it’s all worth it. To stand here today just cements everything for our journey.”
Roxane Dupuy, row on 5, Michelin Sommelier of the Year
Row on 5 also celebrated further success on the night, with Roxane Dupuy named Michelin Sommelier of the Year.
Spencer paid tribute to her contribution to the restaurant.
“Roxy works endlessly,” he said
“She’s first in, last out, she works so hard. She creates such a memory with guests, not just for wine but her personality and love for what she does in hospitality.
“She’s everything we could wish to have for the restaurant.”
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Michael Caines at The Stafford London, one Michelin star
Michael Caines, who also retained his Michelin star at Lympstone Manor for an eighth year, said: “To be awarded a Michelin star at The Stafford London is a truly special moment.
“It is the first in the hotel’s history, and a first for my debut London residence, making it even more meaningful.
“Michelin recognition is always about the collective effort — the passion, discipline, and consistency of the entire team.
“Thanks to James, Simon, Aubin, Alejandro, Luca, Gianluca, Nuno, and the entire team, it’s a proud moment to share.
“It marks the start of an incredible journey for everyone here at The Stafford London and acknowledges the time and commitment invested so far, motivating us all to keep evolving in this exciting new chapter.”
Rafael Cagali, Maré by Rafael Cagali, one Michelin star
Rafael added a Michelin star at Maré to his two stars at Da Terra.
“I’m incredibly proud of the whole team for this recognition,” said Rafael.
“From the beginning, Maré has been about thoughtful cooking and creating a place that feels genuinely special for our community.
“To be acknowledged by Michelin in our first year, and to see Brighton & Hove recognised in this way, means a great deal to all of us.”
Matilda & Tom Tsappis, Killiecrankie House, one Michelin star
Scottish restaurant with rooms Killiecrankie House was one of 20 new one-star restaurants.
“Being awarded a Michelin Star is completely overwhelming and something we truly didn’t expect this year,” said the husband-and-wife team.
“Since entering The Michelin Guide in 2022, we’ve simply focused on doing the very best we can, taking our time and staying true to our values.
“This recognition means more to us than we can put into words, particularly given the challenges faced by the industry in recent years. We’re incredibly proud of our team; this achievement belongs to every single person who has supported us and believed in what we’re building here.
"Killiecrankie House is deeply rooted in its surroundings and our sense of belonging to this place, and to see that recognised at this level is an unforgettable moment for us.”
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