For many restaurants, receiving a Michelin star (or two, or three) is one of the best ways to gain world-class status in the culinary world. It is also guaranteed to attract international media attention and bring in new business.
Although it is extremely difficult to earn Michelin stars, the Japanese restaurant Sukiyabashi Jiro has earned the maximum three stars every year since 2007. But things are about to change. It was recently announced that the restaurant will be left out of the 2020 Michelin Guide because it no longer accepts public reservations. Since Michelin’s aim is to introduce top-notch restaurants to the general public, Sukiyabashi Jiro no longer falls within their rating criteria.
You might think this would be a great loss for the restaurant, but some believe Sukiyabashi Jiro is too famous to be affected by Michelin’s decision. The restaurant has made headlines on multiple occasions, such as when the former U.S. President, Barack Obama, and the Japanese Prime Minister, Shinzo Abe, dined there together in 2014. It was also showcased in the 2011 documentary, Jiro Dreams Of Sushi. Only time will tell if Michelin's decision has a negative impact on Sukiyabashi Jiro.
