Paul Bocuse’s Restaurant Loses Its Third Michelin Star
Last week, when the flagship restaurant of the late, legendary French chef Paul Bocuse lost its third Michelin star, it made headlines at home and abroad. Moreover, the furore has spilled over to the world of sport, as fans of the Ligue 1 club Olympique Lyonnais protested the dining guide’s decision during a Coupe de la Ligue game on 21 January.
A Culinary Landmark: Restaurant Paul Bocuse
Located in the southeast of France near Lyon, in the town of Collonges-au-Mont-d’Or, Restaurant Paul Bocuse – formally known as L’Auberge du Pont de Collonges – has held a three-star rating since 1965, a world record in the culinary realm. The demotion was such a shock that the Michelin boss visited the restaurant to deliver the news in person, explaining that the quality “remained excellent but no longer at the level of three stars,” according to the Agence France-Presse.
Legacy of a Culinary Genius
A highly-decorated chef who championed nouvelle French cuisine, Bocuse passed away in 2018, at age 91. His restaurant received its first Michelin star in 1961, and four years later, it was promoted to three stars—a prestigious rating that remained intact for nearly four decades.
Community Reaction and Support
As ESPN’s Jonathan Johnson reports, the chef was a devoted supporter of Lyon. His restaurant has historically provided meals for the club during European competitions. Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas expressed his support when the news first broke on 17 January, stating, “I associate myself with OL to loudly affirm our unconditional support for the formidable institution that Paul Bocuse has become. More than 100 official European Cup meals unanimously appreciated, as the next one will be against Juventus in February. #ILovePaulBocuse.”
A few days later, the club’s fans registered their objections to the lost star during a game, hoisting a banner that read, “Monsieur Paul, nobody will remove a single one of your stars. From the heart of the Lyon people.” This shows the deep respect and admiration the community holds for Bocuse and his culinary legacy.
