THE youngest person to ever be awarded a Michelin star in Scotland has won the accolade for the second year.
Sam Yorke, who last year was given a Michelin star aged just 25, has seen his Heron restaurant in Leith recognised again.
The now 26-year-old said: “I feel extremely lucky to have the stunning natural larder of Scotland and the UK to inspire Heron’s dishes and to have my young dynamic team here at Heron, who bring creativity and passion for hospitality and outstanding service.”
Yorke is the head chef and owner – “chef patron” – at Heron.
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He went on: “From walking through the doors to leaving at the end of the night, every single member of our team plays a pivotal role and I am grateful for their hard work being recognised by the guide for a second year.
“Receiving a star has meant national and international acclaim for Heron in what is a very tough time for hospitality and I feel incredibly fortunate. I’m very much looking forward to a truly exciting year ahead for Heron with my team.”
The Michelin Guide says of Heron: “There is such a pleasant feel to this neighbourhood restaurant, courtesy of a bright, clean look that’s matched by warm and unstuffy service.
“The skilful cooking is founded on fine Scottish produce, whether that be excellent wild sea bass or the finest berries from Fife.
“The tasting menu will allow you to make the most of the chefs’ talents, and all fits together like a well-crafted jigsaw. Ask for a table by the window if you want to watch the world go by around the Port of Leith, or opt for a seat at the spacious counter.”
Yorke, who is originally from Rochdale in Manchester, studied at the Edinburgh New Town Cooking School and opened Heron the same year he turned 21.
There are four other Edinburgh restaurants which have been given a Michelin star. These are: Timberyard, Condita, The Kitchin, and Restaurant Martin Wishart.
Elsewhere, Glenturret Lalique in Perthshire was awarded two Michelin stars, becoming only the second restaurant in Scotland to currently have the coveted double-accolade.
Andrew Fairlie, at the Gleneagles Hotel in Auchterarder, also has two Michelin stars.
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