Gordon Ramsay defends Michelin Guide's anonymous inspector system

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 16 Oct, 13:02 · Archive

Gordon Ramsay has defended the Michelin Guide's practice of sending anonymous inspectors into restaurants, despite criticism of the system. Speaking to USA Today about his documentary series Knife Edge: Chasing Michelin Stars, which explores the pursuit of Michelin stars, Ramsay backed the guide's secrecy as a strength that ensures consistency and prevents restaurants from receiving special treatment during inspections.

Ramsay said inspectors do not simply assess food but also consider broader circumstances surrounding a restaurant. 'They would never nominate a restaurant that's going to go bust in six months time,' he explained. 'Especially at that two or three star level, they'd look stupid.' He said he has never knowingly seen one of Michelin's anonymous inspectors inside a restaurant.

Ramsay said the incognito nature of inspections is particularly important in the age of social media influencers. 'Where I stand strong with the Michelin Guide is the level of consistency in a way that they don't come in and announce themselves,' he said. 'It is incognito and I think that's the sort of benchmark in a way, how you measure consistency.'

How it is being reported

• Gordon Ramsay defends 'incognito' Michelin Guide amid criticismLegendary chef Gordon Ramsay has defended the "incognito" Michelin Guide amid criticism.Oxford Mail · 16 Oct, 12:30
• Gordon Ramsay defends 'incognito' Michelin Guide amid criticismLegendary chef Gordon Ramsay has defended the "incognito" Michelin Guide amid criticism.Oxfordshire Guardian · 16 Oct, 12:30

In this story: Gordon Ramsay · Michelin Guide · The Nut Tree Inn · Murcott · Le Manoir aux Quat'Saisons · Great Milton · Oxfordshire

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