OXTON restaraunt Fraiche has retained its Michelin star for another year to maintain its status as Merseyside's only entry in the prestigious guide. 

After shifting to a virtual ceremony in 2021 due to the Covid pandemic, this year Michelin announced the awarding of new stars on Twitter. Twenty-five restaurants were awarded new star ratings, including 19 new one-star restaurants, five new two-star restaurants and one three-star – L’Enclume.

Fraiche was opened by local chef Marc Wilkinson in 2004 and has won a loyal following from diners and critics ever since.

In 2018, he looked to move Fraiche to a larger site but has now decided to stay put on Rose Mount.

Posting on the restaurant's Instagram page, Marc said: "Like many other restaurants, it has been a tough ride this past year, but we pushed on and kept the dedication to gastronomy and cooking the best we can.

"Proud to have achieved this once again for the year we have just had."

Gwendal Poullennec, international director of the Michelin Guides, said: “Naturally we were disappointed to be unable to host this event in person. However, we wanted to celebrate the achievements of the country’s top chefs, who have fought hard not only to survive, but to excel in these challenging times.

“To award so many new stars this year, including one new three star, is testament to the determination and resilience of those working in the hospitality industry – not just the chefs, but those involved at every level.”