Chef Paul Askew questions Michelin Awards. Liverpool lacks stars; nearby Moor Hall gets three. He seeks support for local spots.
The closest Michelin star restaurant is Moor Hall. It is in Aughton, near Merseyside. Moor Hall now has three stars and is the tenth UK restaurant with three stars. It only had two before.
Paul helped create many popular restaurants. He worked at London Carriage Works and Philharmonic Hall. His restaurant, The Art School, turns ten this year in September 2024.
Paul built The Art School himself, wanting fine dining with great food and wine. He felt disappointed by the Michelin Awards and thinks Liverpool deserves at least one star. He wishes the city had two or three stars.
Liverpool has never had a Michelin star, which worries some people. They wonder if there is prejudice. Paul doesn’t think so yet, believing it will happen eventually. He thinks they must keep working hard as the city grows fast.
Covid and the economy hurt restaurants but Paul has faith in Liverpool’s hospitality. He always has, and that is why he created The Art School.
Paul urges people to support local restaurants as they need support right now. It is hard for everyone and we must help these places succeed.
The Art School still partners with The Jockey Club and will work at The Grand National for three more years, starting in April 2025. The Art School offers dining at Topham House, from April 3 to 5 at Aintree Racecourse.
Paul is excited about working with The Jockey Club; they have been partners since 2022. He serves patrons during the horse race, and The Grand National is special. He is proud to be involved.
He wants to showcase local food and wines, telling Liverpool’s food story well. It shows the city’s ambition and creativity. He thanks his staff and customers for their support of The Art School.
Paul spoke at the 2025 Weights Lunch at St George’s Hall, where they announced the race weights. Famous people were there, like Natasha Jonas, Sam Quek and John Barnes.
They bring their tasting menu to Topham House. Paul shows off local ingredients and people. The Art School trains apprentices and showcases Liverpool on a plate. He wants to give people a “wow” experience.