Michelin Guide 2023: Bristol keeps two one-star restaurants - but loses one

Two restaurants in Bristol have kept hold of their Michelin stars following the influnential guide’s awards for 2023 last night.

Paco Tapas in Redcliffe and Bulrush in Cotham both retained their prestigious one-stars, with judges praising the ‘skilfully prepared’ dishes at Paco Tapas and the ‘deftly prepared tasting menu’ at Bulrush.

The night also saw confirmation that the city had lost its third one-star restaurant, with Casamia closing last year. However, the owners’ replacement restaurant called Casa has already made into the guide despite being open for less than six months.

No other restaurant picked up a Michellin star, although Wilsons in Redland retained a Green Star for excellent food with sustainable practices.

And, as revealed last week, Blaise Inn, COR in Bedminster and Marmo in the city centre have received Michelin Bib Gourmand awards in the 2023 guide. The award highlights restaurants within the Michelin Guide selection that stand out for their good quality, good value cooking.

On the two one-star restaurants in Bristol, expected high praise was given to each in the guide. Last year, we also tried the £120 chef’s menu at Pacpo Tapas - you can read our review here.

On Paco Tapas, the guide said: “Appealing menus provide plenty of choice and include all the favourites, from jamon croquetas or tortillas – where the rich, golden egg just oozes out – to fire-cooked bread which will have you in raptures. Dishes are skilfully prepared and packed with flavour, and the passion with which they are made is palpable. Those unfamiliar with the Spanish way need not fret, as the knowledgeable team will guide you through the menu from start to finish.”

And on Bulrush, described as serving modern Bristol food, the guide said: “Top-notch seasonal ingredients are either foraged or organic, and preserving and pickling play a key role on the imaginative, well-balanced and deftly prepared tasting menu. Combinations are original and provide plenty of contrasts and flavours are clear and natural, with the occasional Japanese influence. The astutely chosen wine flight creates the perfect partnership.”