Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1519042
maltatoday | SUNDAY • 14 APRIL 2024 2 FOOD For the first time, the Michelin Guide awards two stars to a Maltese restaurant MICHELIN has unveiled the fifth edition of the Malta Michelin Guide, renowned for its discerning evaluation of cu- linary excellence. With roots dating back to the late 19th century, Michelin has upheld its standard of international gastronomy for over 120 years, lauding some of the world's fin- est dining establishments. Restaurants are awarded one to three MICHELIN Stars based on five key criteria: the quality of ingredients, mastery of fla- vors and cooking techniques, the chef's culinary identity, har- mony of flavors, and consisten- cy across visits. ION Harbour, a Maltese res- taurant in Valletta helmed by chef Simon Rogan, has been honored with two Michelin stars, while Rosami Restaurant, overlooking Spinola Bay, has been awarded one Michelin star. All previously recognized establishments maintain their one-star status for another year. Furthermore, Restaurant AYU, located opposite Ma- noel Island, has been included in the BIB Gourmand section for the first time. Additionally, five new restaurants have been recommended by the Michelin Guide: Terroir Ħ'Attard, One80 in Valletta, Kaiseki Valletta in Malta, as well as Level Nine by Oliver Glowing in Mġarr Har- bour and Al Sale in Xagħra, both in Gozo. This brings the total number of honoured res- taurants in the guide to 40. International Director of the MICHELIN Guides Gwendal Poullennec explained "Our anonymous inspectors explored the local culinary scene, which is constantly evolving, both in terms of the number of res- taurants, and the quality of the cuisine prepared, and prod- ucts used. This year marks a milestone in the history of the MICHELIN Guide Malta, with the announcement of the first two MICHELIN Stars restau- rant in the selection, underscor- ing the commitment of profes- sionals to deliver the very best to their diners. The inspectors also noticed that the Maltese culinary spirit is changing and becoming ever more zestful and innovative. Chefs are now focusing on local gastronomy, bringing the island's agricul- tural economy to the fore and thereby consolidating a more sustainable approach to Mal- tese cuisine. Small kitchen gar- dens are springing up adjacent to restaurants, enabling chefs to take advantage of local Mediter- ranean-fragranced products." Malta Tourism Authori- ty CEO Carlo Micallef stated: "We are absolutely thrilled by today's exciting announce- ment by the Michelin Guide for Malta. The addition of a new two-star Michelin restaurant, alongside a new one-star res- taurant, a new Bib Gourmand establishment and five new recommended including two in Gozo, underscores MTA's com- mitment to culinary excellence and diversity. These accolades not only elevate Malta's status as a quality gastronomic desti- nation but also highlight the in- credible talent and innovation within our culinary scene. With each Michelin star, we're invit- ing the world to savour the rich flavours and vibrant culture that Malta has to offer. This recognition further cements Malta's position as a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts worldwide." Minister for Tourism and Public Cleanliness Clayton Bar- tolo expressed that the Miche- lin Guide elevates the culinary reputation of the Maltese is- lands, providing restaurateurs with a platform to showcase the exceptional quality of food pro- duced in Malta's kitchens. Min- ister Bartolo underscored the importance of ongoing invest- ment and improvement within the tourism sector to uphold standards of excellence. He al- so emphasized the critical role tourism plays in bolstering the Maltese economy.