The restaurant has its own on-site micro-farm supplying produce for its meals
The Boat restaurant in Lichfield has been awarded its first Michelin star, recognising nine years of dedication to sustainable British cooking.
Led by chef-patron Liam Dillon, The Boat operates as both a dining venue and an on-site micro-farm that supplies much of its produce.
Dillon said: “It feels like the stars have aligned. We were overwhelmed to get the invite to the awards on the Boat’s ninth birthday. It’s still sinking in.
“The whole team has worked very hard to improve our offering, and the hard work has paid off. I’m so so proud of the team, and to get a star in a city I grew up in is a mental feeling.”
Close ties with local producers
The farm features beehives for honey and pollination, pigs reared to minimise waste, free-range hens for eggs, and polytunnels growing vegetables, including unusual varieties such as cicely and wasabi.
It maintains close ties with local producers to ensure high-quality, seasonal ingredients.
Michelin inspectors praised the venue’s evolution into a destination restaurant, highlighting the skilled handling of ingredients by Dillon and his team, as well as engaging table service where chefs describe dishes.
Recent highlights have included smoked cod’s roe with trompette mushrooms and truffle agnolotti, hand-dived Orkney scallop with confit leek and smoked dulse butter and Staffordshire venison with smoked beetroot.
Diners can enjoy a full tasting menu at £120 per person or a shorter version at £85, with optional wine pairings. Lunch and Sunday services offer an à la carte option.
The restaurant will close for a two-week renovation in April to refresh the bar and dining areas.
