Gordon Ramsay’s ‘Knife Edge’ spotlights culinary world’s chase for Michelin glory

Ever wondered what it *really* takes to earn a coveted Michelin star? Culinary icon Gordon Ramsay is pulling back the curtain in his new Apple TV+ series, 'Knife Edge: Chasing Michelin Stars,' where he takes on the role of executive producer to delve into the high-stakes world of fine dining.

Premiering this Friday, the eight-part series is described by Ramsay as an "unscripted, real version of life in the culinary world," highlighting the immense stakes and raw emotions involved. He draws a vivid parallel, stating that "Actors want Oscars, football players want F.A. Cup winners’ medals, chefs want Michelin stars" — a clear testament to the ultimate badge of honor in the gastronomic universe.

The show takes viewers on a journey across eateries in the United States, Britain, Italy, the Nordics, and Mexico. Host Jesse Burgess meets dedicated chefs, capturing everything from intricate menu composition to the intense pressure of preparing dishes, all while anticipating the visit of a mysterious Michelin inspector. Adding an intriguing layer, the notoriously anonymous Michelin inspectors themselves offer insights, their voices brought to life by actors, reaffirming their singular focus: judging "the food on the plate" without bias.

The Michelin guide, famously launched by the French tyre company in 1900, introduced its star rating system in the 1920s, allowing up to three stars. Ramsay, no stranger to this elite recognition, earned his first Michelin star as head chef at London’s Aubergine. His flagship Restaurant Gordon Ramsay has impressively maintained its three-star status since 2001, a monumental feat in the ever-evolving culinary landscape.

Maintaining such a prestigious ranking, Ramsay reveals, is where "the real work starts," demanding astute delegation, continuous teaching, and nurturing new talent. Despite his legendary status, the chef candidly admits to still feeling nervous when new guides are released. "No one likes losing," he remarks, emphasizing that a potential downgrade would only fuel his fighting spirit to reclaim any lost accolades.