Torquay’s The Elephant marks 21 consecutive years in the Michelin Guide

Torquay’s The Elephant has once again secured its place in the Michelin Guide, extending its remarkable run to 21 consecutive years with a Michelin star.

The harbourside restaurant, led by chef-patron Simon Hulstone, appears in the Michelin Guide Great Britain & Ireland 2026, underlining more than two decades of sustained excellence - a feat achieved by only a small number of restaurants nationwide.

Holding one Michelin star, The Elephant continues to be recognised for its refined, ingredient-led cooking and quietly confident approach, rooted in seasonal produce and precise technique. While Michelin stars are awarded annually, maintaining one for 21 years places the Torquay restaurant in rare company, alongside some of the most established names in British fine dining such as 1890 by Gordon Ramsey (inside the Three-Michelin-Key - The Savoy) in London.

Reacting to the announcement, the team at The Elephant shared their pride on social media, posting: “We did it. 21 years of Michelin. So so proud of our Team.”

Devon remains well represented in the 2026 guide, with several restaurants across the county holding Michelin recognition, including Àclèaf in Plymouth, Gidleigh Park near Chagford and Lympstone Manor near Exeter. However, The Elephant’s uninterrupted run sets it apart as one of the county’s longest-standing Michelin-starred establishments.

The 2026 selection highlights a wide range of dining experiences across Great Britain and Ireland, from headline-grabbing destinations in striking locations to understated neighbourhood restaurants celebrated for consistency and craft. While new stars often attract attention, Michelin inspectors also place significant value on restaurants that continue to deliver at the highest level year after year.

That consistency has become a hallmark of The Elephant, which has helped cement Torquay’s reputation as a serious food destination, quietly competing with major cities and culinary hotspots across the UK.