Does Nobu London Have a Michelin Star?

By Anna Duncan

Nobu London is one of the most iconic restaurants in London, well-known for its exquisite Japanese cuisine and luxurious ambiance. But the question on everyone’s mind is – Does Nobu London have a Michelin Star?

The Short Answer

No, Nobu London does not currently hold a Michelin star. However, this does not take away from the restaurant’s exceptional quality and reputation.

What are Michelin Stars?

Before we dive into whether or not Nobu London has a Michelin star, let’s first understand what Michelin stars actually are. The Michelin Guide is a prestigious annual publication that rates restaurants and hotels across the world. It was originally created by the French tire company, Michelin, as a way to encourage more people to drive (and therefore wear out their tires).

The guide rates restaurants on a scale of 1 to 3 stars based on the quality of their food, service, and overall dining experience. A one-star rating indicates “a very good restaurant,” two stars mean “excellent cooking that is worth a detour” and three stars represent “exceptional cuisine that is worth a special journey.”

Nobu London’s Reputation

Despite not having a Michelin star rating, Nobu London has established itself as one of the best Japanese restaurants in London. The brainchild of Chef Nobuyuki Matsuhisa, Nobu first opened in New York City in 1994 before expanding to other cities across the globe.

Nobu’s signature dishes like Black Cod Miso and Yellowtail Sashimi with Jalapeño have become iconic dishes in contemporary Japanese cuisine.

The restaurant also boasts an impressive wine list and cocktail menu which perfectly complements their delicious food offerings.

Why Doesn’t Nobu London Have a Michelin Star?

There has been much speculation over the years as to why Nobu London has never received a Michelin star. One theory is that Michelin inspectors are traditionally more partial to European cuisine and may not be as familiar with Japanese food.

Another theory is that Nobu’s popularity and celebrity clientele may have actually worked against them, as the Michelin Guide tends to favor more low-key establishments.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while Nobu London may not have a Michelin star rating, its reputation as one of the best Japanese restaurants in London still stands. The restaurant’s innovative dishes, elegant ambiance, and exceptional service have made it a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Whether or not a Michelin star is on the horizon for Nobu London remains to be seen, but regardless of ratings, it will continue to be a must-visit dining destination for foodies all over.

  • Key Takeaways:
  • Nobu London does not currently hold a Michelin star rating.
  • The Michelin Guide rates restaurants on a scale of 1 to 3 stars based on food quality, service, and overall dining experience.
  • Nobu London has established itself as one of the best Japanese restaurants in London thanks to its iconic dishes and luxurious ambiance.
  • The reasons for why Nobu London hasn’t received a Michelin star are purely speculative but could include inspectors’ bias towards European cuisine or their preference for low-key establishments.