De Librije remains the only restaurant in the Netherlands with three stars. The recognition comes six months after the death of celebrated chef Jonnie Boer, who died in April on Bonaire following a pulmonary embolism. He and his wife Thérèse had run De Librije together since 1993.

In her speech, Thérèse Boer said the team had feared the restaurant might lose its stars. “It has happened before when a chef passes away,” she said. “We discussed it and prepared ourselves. It’s wonderful that we can continue to defend these stars.”

Two restaurants, Create in Eijsden (Limburg) and Gem in Gemert (Noord-Brabant), were awarded two Michelin stars for the first time this year, taking the total of two-star eateries in the Netherlands to 20.

Five restaurants earned their first star: Choux and Cue in Amsterdam, Novaela in Delft, Calva in Nootdorp, and Olde Marckt in Aalten. Olde Marckt’s chef Bram Stoverink also received the Young Chef Award, given to a chef under 36 who shows exceptional talent and potential.

There are now 98 restaurants in the Netherlands with one Michelin star.

Ylja Berends of restaurant WY in Maastricht won the Michelin Sommelier Award for her wine pairings, which judges said showed how a small wine list can have a major impact.

Restaurants Konijnenvoer in Arnhem and Tres in Rotterdam were awarded Green Stars for sustainable gastronomy, bringing the national total to 23.

Last week, Michelin announced nine new Bib Gourmand restaurants, which the guide recognises for serving high-quality food at moderate prices. The Michelin Service Award, which highlights outstanding hospitality, went to restaurant De Leuf in Ubachsberg, Limburg.