The Bib Gourmand is a distinction designed to highlight restaurants offering great quality great value cooking according to Michelin, who have today bestowed the honour on six restaurants across the country.

Just 20 new Bibs were awarded across the UK and Ireland this year - three of which were based in Dublin, one in Cork, one in Kerry and one in Belfast.

A familiar favourite:

Lee side Ichigo Ichie, which previously held a Michelin star for its kappou-style fine dining, relaunched as a more casual bistro and natural wine bar three weeks ago and has made an atomic speed entry into the list.

Takashi Miyazaki, owner of the restaurant, said that he was taken aback by the rapid recognition for his new concept, which opened its doors in the same premises on Fenn's Quay Cork City earlier this month: “It was a surprise, almost a shock,” he said.

The guide said: “Ichigo Ichie Bistro & Natural Wine is offering well-prepared Japanese dishes. A new incarnation of the original Ichigo Ichie, this is a more relaxed and accessibly priced restaurant that comes with the bustle of contented diners.”

Dublin's bibs:

Three restaurants were awarded bibs in the city including, Amy Austin's -tucked away at the entrance to one of D2's busiest carparks, Spanish restaurant La Gordita and Rathmines neighbourhood style restaurant Lottie's.

Amy Austin was described in this year Hot press' Best of Dublin issue as "Michelin standard dishes for 14 euro or less" which we think was rather prescient given today's news.

Dingle's Debut:

Solas Tapas puts Dingle, Co Kerry on the Michelin Bib Gourmand map. “On the west coast, make sure to visit the charming town of Dingle, not least to sample the delicious tapas at Solas. Spanish flavours mingle with Irish produce in dishes that have been given a fresh spin without losing their identity.” The restaurant, owned by Nicky Foley and Ann Connell, serves what it describes as “small to medium plates, with no set dinner format, allowing you to choose your dishes in the order that suits you.”

Belfast Bib:

In Belfast, Home restaurant its the only establishment on today's list that is retaining its existing Bib, which the guide credits “ to a new chef and some terrific produce. The extensive menus include a host of delicious dishes at an attractive price, accompanied by friendly service and a welcoming feel.”

The Michelin Guide UK & Ireland awards ceremony takes place in Manchester next Monday, at which the restaurants being awarded stars in the 2024 guide, which is published digitally, will be announced.

'It's been a brilliant year for the Republic of Ireland" the guide said, "With five restaurants newly recognised with a Bib Gourmand. Three of these are in Dublin, adding to the city’s already appealing dining scene"

List of 2024 Irish Bib Gourmand awardees: 

Dublin:

Amy Austins

Lotties

La Gordita

Cork:

Ichigo Ichie

Kerry:

Solas Tapas

Belfast:

Home

Belfast: