PRESS RELEASE

London, U.K. -  The World Avocado Organization (WAO) is collaborating with the Michelin Guide at ‘The Michelin Star Revelation Great Britain and Ireland 2019’ event, which takes place today at the BFI IMAX cinema in London. Over 140 million kilos of avocados are expected to be sold in the UK and Ireland in 2018 - and now the craze has gained Michelin-star approval by featuring the avocado in the most prestigious event in the culinary calendar. 

Established in 1900, this is the first time the iconic Michelin Guide will be collaborating with a fresh agricultural product (see video here for insights on the collaboration). The inaugural event highlights the evolving British and Irish culinary landscape and attracts the world’s leading chefs, restaurateurs and food writers. This is the perfect occasion to showcase the versatility and uniqueness of this popular superfood, which has become a staple in many international gourmet cuisines.

Whatley Manor resident chef Niall Keating, winner of the 2018 Young Chef of the Year award, will demonstrate how to recreate delicious dishes including avocado, tofu and caviar and avocado macarons; highlighting the pleasure and ease of cooking with avocados. The renowned chef will take audiences through an exclusive journey on how to replicate avocado-inspired Michelin-style dishes at home.

 “We are extremely proud to collaborate with the Michelin Guide at this year’s Michelin Star Revelation Great Britain and Ireland event”, said World Avocado Organization CEO Xavier Equihua. “The awards have a long and rich history and this year is no different with an incredible selection of talented chefs. Many of the finest Michelin-starred restaurants are already serving stunning avocado dishes in the UK and Ireland, and we look forward to working with leading chefs to continue to inspire the British and Irish restaurant scenes.”

In celebration of the collaboration, both the WAO and the Michelin Guide today released special print and e-format editions of their cookbook and guide. 

The WAO has also created the first ever Michelin Avocado Map highlighting some of the eclectic avocado dishes available at restaurants across the UK, including The Greenhouse and Indian favourite, Jamavar. Whether you prefer avocado for a starter, main or dessert – or have discerning or simple tastes – there is something for everyone in all corners of the UK. 

The Michelin Guide Awards mark a momentous end to 2018 for the WAO. This year, Spain and Colombia joined existing avocado producing country members to officially promote the consumption of avocados to consumers for the first time in the UK and the rest of Europe. The WAO has also produced a special edition of the first avocado beer made in Europe, which will also be showcased at today’s event.