Michelin '03

[Basildog]

Andy..if you mean those knife and fork symbols then yes..a black one.

Which is the minimum

I do think those text comments are a big improvement

edit spelling

Edited February 12, 2003 by Basildog (log)

[cabrales]

The commentary was very nice. Sometimes, even for two and three stars, too much of the short commentary is devoted to decor. In Basildog's case, there was a lot on food and nice things were said.

1. Commentary for Stein was not necessarily better:

-- The Seafood (is that the official name of that facility?): "Bold artwork and a buzz of enthusiasm animate Rick Stein's converted granary and conservatory. *Flavourful* Cornish seafood. Stylish rooms in a cool modern palette." There is mention only of "flavorful" seafood. Basildog had that, and more. His description is much better than if Michelin had said "artwork was..."

-- St Petroc's: "On a steep hill above the town centre, a handsome white-fronted house with individually decorated rooms, full of stylish touches. Privately run with smooth professionalism." Although professional running could arguably encompass the cuisine, it is not specific to it.

-- Rick Stein's Cafe: "Tucked away on one of Padstow's side streets. Good quality furniture and a classic, traditional style of décor throughout. Well-appointed bedrooms." No mention of cuisine at all.

2. Even the one-starred Ripley's (note I have never eaten there) in the general vicinity only garnered this comment: "A feeling of real quality prevails: exposed beams and brickwork, stone-topped bar, intimate welcome. *Uses the best of Cornwall's ingredients*". Note the emphasis on decor, even for a one-starred restaurant. Basildog was noted as having the "finest" ingredients.

3. Other Padstow area restaurants do not have as nice commentary as Basildog:

-- Pescadou: "Bustling, glass fronted extension to Old Custom House, with characterful quayside setting. Open-plan kitchen adds to atmosphere. Rustic style menus with seafood emphasis." Here, the third sentence refers to the cuisine, but it merely notes the seafood emphasis (no kidding -- given we're in Padstow ) and "rustic style menus"

-- The Metropole hotel's dining facilities: No verbal description.

-- Tresglos: "Smart attire the code in very comfortable dining room." Again, no mention of the food.

I have listed above all the restaurants in Padstow according to the Michelin website. The *relative* (relative to geographically proximate venues) favorableness of the commentary received by Basildog has, I hope, been demonstrated too.

Note those knife and fork symbols are not generally viewed as food ratings. Michelin only has four food-specific ratings: the three levels of stars and Bib Gourmand (referring to good value for money or something akin to that). *Inclusion* in the Guide itself signifies Michelin considers the restaurant appropriate for diners to consider. I don't have any Michelins with me currently, but the knife and fork symbols signify comfort level (meaning decor, etc.) of the restaurant, I vaguely recall. Congrats -- Basildog

Edited February 13, 2003 by cabrales (log)

[Basildog]

Yes Cabby..the symbols are a comfort rating.

Thanks for the last post..maybe we should have a new thread..Cabrales's Guide to The Guides

For members info Ripley's is having a new roof and extended kitchen and dining room, so is closed at the moment.

[maggiethecat]

Basildoggie:

Congratulations on your fork. I am so delighted to hear of it.

Must say, in eGulletland, it's as if my brother had won it.

Best always,

Maggie

[macrosan]

Thanks Cabby..yes i'm a happy bunny

Oh my goodness, a schizophrenic in the house.

Now listen carefully, Basil, you're a happy doggy, not a happy bunny. Got it ?

And you have every right ot be so. I found something to agree with Michelin on

[Basildog]

Thanks Martin

enough already...lets not turn this into a love fest