Bath’s only Michelin-starred restaurant retains star for third year running

22 March 2021

If you love Bath’s food scene, here’s some exciting news for you – the Olive Tree Restaurant at Bath’s Queensberry Hotel has been awarded a Michelin star for the third year in a row!

This means the popular Bath restaurant holds onto its status as the only Michelin-starred eatery in the city. The Olive Tree is also one of just 118 outside London to receive a star in the Great British and Ireland Michelin Guide 2021. 

It’s all down to Olive Tree head chef Chris Cleghorn 

The star was awarded to head chef Chris Cleghorn, who’s been devising British and Mediterranean-inspired menus and cooking for guests at the Olive Tree for 8 years. He’s previously worked with some of the most respected chefs in the UK, including Michael Caines and James Sommerin. 

The talented chef recently talked to Somerset Live about what the Michelin award means to him, and for an industry facing difficult times due to the coronavirus crisis. He said:

“It is almost impossible to put into words what it means to me as a chef to be recognised by Michelin yet again with a star for The Olive Tree.

“The last twelve months have been incredibly difficult for the industry all round, we have had to close three times, furlough staff and continually adapt to the ever-changing Covid requirements, so this feels even more significant.

“Looking to the future, when it is safe for us to reopen, the team and I want to enjoy what we have achieved, but at the same time we will continue to evolve every single day.

“We want to push ourselves all the time, creating outstanding menus and memorable experiences that our guests can enjoy, working with our exceptional local suppliers and their excellent produce. We never rest on our laurels.”

Bath restaurant scene gets ready to reopen 

This is thrilling news for Bath’s food and drink scene, which is a huge draw for visitors to the city but so far hasn’t produced any other Michelin-starred restaurants.  

It comes at an especially important time, as Bath’s restaurant and hospitality business start to make tentative preparations for reopening. If everything stays on track, the government’s roadmap out of lockdown has outdoor hospitality reopening by 12th April. Indoor businesses, including restaurants, are set to reopen by 17th May 2021. 

So, there’s not too long to wait (fingers crossed!) until you can sit down for a delicious meal at one of Bath’s fabulous independent restaurants. But due to the publicity whipped up by the Michelin star win, you may have to pop yourself on the waiting list to visit the Olive Tree. It’s likely to be booked up weeks or even months in advance, so make your reservation early if you want to eat there this summer! 

And don’t forget to book somewhere lovely to stay – our beautiful Russel Garden, Russel Maisonette and New Brunswick apartments are virtually next door to the Olive Tree.