Four Lithuanian Restaurants Receive Michelin Stars for the First Time
The Michelin Guide has released its first edition for Lithuania, awarding Michelin stars to restaurants in the country for the first time. Several dozen Lithuanian eateries have been included in the guide, with four of them earning Michelin stars. Džiaugsmas, Nineteen18, Pas Mus, and Demo were recognized for their food quality and service, while Red Brick received a green star for sustainable gastronomy, reports LRT.
"This is a historic moment for both Lithuania and the Michelin Guide," said Elisabeth Boucher-Anselin, Michelin's Director of Communications.
Other Lithuanian restaurants have also been honoured by Michelin. Four restaurants received recognition in the Bib Gourmand category, which highlights establishments offering high-quality cuisine at reasonable prices. Gaspar's restaurant received the Michelin Service Award for exceptional service, and Kamile Bartuseviciute of Pacai restaurant was honoured with the Best Sommelier award.
Previously, Lithuania's Ministry of Economy and Innovation reported that the country paid over €1.5 million to be included in the Michelin Guide. According to a three-year contract between the publication and the government, Michelin inspectors will visit Lithuania multiple times, potentially improving the ratings of existing restaurants or adding new ones to the rankings. Part of the funds will also go towards promoting the country in the guide.
Michelin stars are a prestigious restaurant rating format within the renowned Michelin Guide, first published in 1900 by brothers Édouard and André Michelin, founders of the famous tyre company. The publication was initially distributed for free to drivers who purchased Michelin tyres.
According to the Michelin Guide, one star is awarded to restaurants that "use the highest quality ingredients, where dishes with distinct flavours are prepared to a consistently high standard." Two stars are awarded "when the chef’s personality and talent are evident in their expertly crafted dishes; their food is refined and inspired." Finally, three stars are awarded "for exceptional cuisine from chefs at the peak of their profession; their cooking is elevated to an art form, with some of their dishes destined to become classics."