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The Michelin Guide Strikes Back
Restaurant Paul Bocuse Loses It’s Third Star
By now anyone who loves French food has heard the earth-shattering news that Paul Bocuse’s restaurant lost their coveted third star that they’ve held for an unprecedented 55 years straight. Despite my deep appreciation for the life and legacy of Paul Bocuse I am not completely surprised, though probably not for the reasons you think.
Before I go too far, I must confess I am a classicist. I prefer eating dishes like civet de lapin, blanquette de veau, or bouillabaisse to the sometimes-bizarre combinations I have witnessed in many of France’s modern temples of gastronomy. I am all for change, but a change still rooted in tradition.
For many years if not decades, the Guide Michelin has struggled to remain relevant with foodies. In many cases, they have diluted the brand to be more inclusive.
Famous chefs are turning in their Michelin stars
Marco Pierre White famously lamented that “today they dish out stars like confetti. What does Michelin mean anymore?” Perhaps the Michelin Guide deserves to fade away just like the absurdly lengthy epoch of France’s dominance over global restaurant cuisine.