Georges Blanc Loses His Third Michelin Star After More Than 40 Years

Renowned French chef Georges Blanc has seen his restaurant in Vonnas (Ain) downgraded by the Michelin Guide, losing the prestigious third star he had held since 1981. The announcement was made on March 20, just ten days before the official 2025 Michelin awards ceremony, scheduled for March 31 at the Robert Schuman Convention Center in Metz.

A Surprise for the 82-Year-Old Chef

“We didn’t expect it,” the 82-year-old chef told AFP. “One star is gone, so we will continue with two. No problem,” he added with resilience.

Despite this loss, Michelin Guide director Gwendal Poullennec praised “the longevity and quality of Maison Blanc” and assured that the restaurant would continue to be closely followed by Michelin inspectors.

A Starred Establishment Since 1929

Maison Blanc holds a unique record: it is the longest continuously Michelin-starred restaurant in the world. The first star was awarded in 1929 to Élisa Blanc, the chef’s grandmother, followed by a second in 1932. Georges Blanc took over the family inn in 1968, gradually transforming it into a culinary landmark that blends tradition and innovation. In 1981, he achieved the ultimate recognition with his third Michelin star.

Part of a Wider Downgrade Affecting 23 Restaurants

The 2025 Michelin Guide has downgraded 23 restaurants this year:

• One three-star restaurant, Georges Blanc’s.
• One two-star restaurant, Le Puits Saint-Jacques (Gers).
• 21 restaurants that lost their single star, including five due to changes in ownership or concept.

Additionally, several Michelin-starred establishments shut down in 2024, including Maison Ruggieri in Paris, which held two stars.

Despite this change, Georges Blanc remains a legendary figure in French gastronomy, continuing to lead a culinary empire with ten establishments and over 300 employees.