Hollywood has the Oscars, the music industry has the Grammys, but when it comes to food, recognition from Michelin has gotta be the most prestigious accolade out there.
And excitingly for one European country, the guide is expanding its horizons. That’s right, tomorrow night (June 13), the first ever Lithuanian Michelin Guide will be published, and everything from traditional Lithuanian dishes to international influences and food centred around local, seasonal ingredients is set to be featured.
Inspectors conducted research throughout Klaipeda, Trakai, Kaunas and Vilnius, and each selected restaurant has been assessed on Michelin’s five criteria. They are: the quality of the ingredients, the mastery of cooking techniques, the harmony of flavours, the personal expression of the chef, and consistency across the menu.
It’s brilliant news for Lithuania, which is the last Baltic state to be included, and the Minister of Economy and Innovation Aušrinė Armonaitė, said: ‘This recognition … underscores our unparalleled blend of culture, nature, and culinary excellence. It extends an open invitation to explore the depth of Lithuania’s unique identity, offering discerning travellers a comprehensive experience that seamlessly marries quality with tradition and innovation.’
And it sounds like the food scene there is stirring up a lot of excitement. Gina Luca Demarco is a professional Italian chef who’s lived in Lithuania for sixteen years, and he says the country’s gastronomy scene has grown enormously, so the timing of this announcement is pretty ideal.
‘Lithuanian professionals have truly outdone themselves, creating unique masterpieces in every area of gastronomy,’ he said.
So, keen to know where Michelin recommends in Lithuania? Well, you don’t have long to wait. The selection will be revealed at a ceremony at the Pirkliu Club in Vilnius tomorrow evening, June 13.
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