Ballyfin Demesne in Laois has been awarded a Michelin Star at the prestigious Michelin Guide UK & Ireland Awards, held at Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum in Glasgow. This historic achievement not only celebrates Ballyfin’s dedication to culinary excellence but also marks a defining moment for the Midlands, positioning it firmly on the map as Ireland’s emerging culinary hotspot.
The recognition is a testament to the vision and craftsmanship of Executive Chef Richard Picard-Edwards and his talented team, who have worked tirelessly to craft a menu that embodies the spirit of Ballyfin. Drawing inspiration from the estate’s rich natural larder, the team has created a dining experience that is deeply rooted in the land, offering guests an unparalleled taste of Ireland’s finest produce.
Nestled within 614 acres of pristine countryside, Ballyfin Demesne is not only an architectural and historical gem but also a haven for gastronomic creativity. The estate’s eight-acre walled garden provides a year-round bounty of fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs, while the surrounding woodlands and meadows yield a diverse collection of wild foods, from springtime wild garlic to autumn’s prized Ceps. The estate’s own beehives, carefully tended by local beekeeper Bernd, supply honey and honeycomb, adding a touch of sweetness to Ballyfin’s culinary offerings.
With this Michelin Star, Ballyfin Demesne becomes the first restaurant in the Midlands to receive this coveted accolade, a milestone that signals a growing recognition of the region’s burgeoning food scene. The Midlands is now stepping into the spotlight as a destination for discerning diners, thanks to the dedication of chefs and producers who are championing local ingredients and sustainable practices.
Michelin success for Thyme Athlone and Bramley Abbeyleix
It is an exciting time for Midlands food, and this recognition highlights the incredible talent and award-winning producers that our region has to offer. In addition to the star for Ballyfin, there was also continued success for long-time champions of Midlands food, Thyme Restaurant in Athlone. Led for over 20 years by Chef-Owner John Coffey, Thyme continues to hold a Michelin Bib Gourmand, reflecting an unwavering dedication to the finest local produce the region has to offer, and a welcoming dining room on the banks of the Shannon. Back in Laois, Bramley in Abbeyleix, led by former Ballyfin Head Chef Sam Moody, has also secured a listing in the 2025 Michelin Guide.
Ballyfin Demesne’s One Michelin Star status, alongside its Three Michelin Keys for hospitality excellence, cements its reputation as a world-class destination for both luxury and gastronomy. As the Midlands continues to evolve as a culinary powerhouse, the Michelin restaurants are just some of the food offerings that are inviting guests to experience the award-winning dining and explore the rich traditions, landscapes, and flavours that define this remarkable region.
Discover more about Midlands Food and Drink
In the Midlands, we take great pride in our food and drink industry and our unique heritage in grain milling, malting, distilling, brewing and baking. Along with our diverse landscapes and waterways, we have a vast amount of scrumptiously delicious food and drink. Discover more about Midlands Food and Drink
