Thorntons, Guilbauds retain two-star Michelin rating

Dublin restaurants Thorntons and Guilbauds have retained their two-star ranking in the  Michelin Guidefor 2004.

They are joined by Dublin's L'Ecrivain, which retained its one star rating, as the top restaurants in the State.

There was one new award to a Northern Ireland restaurant, the Oriel in Co Down joining Deane's in Belfast and Shanks in Bangor as single-started eateries.

Under a new section of the guide, called the Bib Gourmand - for good food at moderate prices - three establishments in the Republic lost their award.

The restaurants which lost their designation were Duzy's in Dun Laoighre, Tyrrells in Edenderry, and Zuni in Kilkenny.

In the UK a small Berkshire village now boasts not one, but two of the finest places to eat.

The Fat Duck in Bray has become only the third restaurant in the country to be awarded three coveted Michelin stars.

Of the other two with three stars, one is the nearby Waterside Inn run by Michel Roux.

The only other restaurant with three stars is Gordon Ramsay's in Chelsea, London.

Mr Paul Cordle, spokesman for Michelin guides, said: "The stars are given for the quality of the food. However, when you get to that level you will find the surroundings will be in keeping as well."