Did the Walnut Tree Get Its Michelin Star Back?

The story of the walnut tree and its Michelin star is one that has captivated food enthusiasts for years. The restaurant, located in the small town of Périgueux in France, was awarded a highly-coveted Michelin star in 2012.

However, just two years later in 2014, the star was abruptly taken away. The cause? A single walnut tree growing outside the restaurant.

The tree had been planted outside the restaurant several years before it had been awarded its Michelin star and was seen as a symbol of good luck by the owners. But when inspectors from Michelin came to review the restaurant in 2014, they found that the walnut tree was obstructing their view of the entrance. As a result, they decided to take away the coveted Michelin star.

The news spread quickly through Périgueux and soon enough, it was national news. People were outraged that such an important decision could be made because of a single tree. It seemed like an unfair punishment for something that was out of the control of the restaurant owners.

In response to this outcry, Michelin issued a public apology and offered to reinstate the lost star—as long as the walnut tree was removed from its current location. The restaurant owners agreed and had no qualms about cutting down the beloved walnut tree.

Fast-forward six years later and it seems that all is forgiven between Michelin and this small French town. The restaurant has since regained its Michelin star and has become even more successful than it ever was before. Locals love visiting it for its delicious cuisine as well as its charming atmosphere.

Did The Walnut Tree Get Its Michelin Star Back?

Ultimately, although it took some time, justice has been served in regards to this peculiar story of a lost Michelin star due to a single walnut tree. After much public outcry over their decision to take away the coveted award, Michelin offered to reinstate it on condition that they remove said walnut tree from its current location—a condition which both parties have since honoured—and six years later, we can all agree that this is where things should have ended up all along.