Pictured above: The Joiners

Leicestershire restaurant The Joiners has again clinched a coveted recommendation in this year's Michelin Eating Out In Pubs Guide.

It marks the venue's seventh consecutive inclusion in the prestigious directory and is topped off with a rare Inspectors' Favourite accreditation. The Joiners is only one of only five restaurants in the region to land this level of recognition which firmly cements its unique status among South Leicestershire eateries.

Chef patron Stephen Fitzpatrick is thrilled to get the inspectors' recommendation. He says: "It's a team effort and we are delighted to retain our inclusion in the guide, which recognises The Joiners' service and quality of food. Our standards and consistency are very important to us and after what has been a challenging yet exciting year with the opening of our new project, The Boot Room in Leicester city centre, it is good to get further recognition".

Michelin editor Derek Bulmer says: "Our guide shows that pubs are not dying, they are merely changing. The traditional drinking pub has undoubtedly been suffering but those that are making efforts with their food are flourishing. Even some of the breweries have acknowledged this and have begun recruiting talented chefs. If there is one message it is - adapt and thrive.

"We are also finding that these food-driven pubs are playing an even greater part in the local community. Chefs are rediscovering regional specialties and often deal directly with local farmers and many hold food-themed nights, such as pie nights or fish nights. We are pleased to see that most are also moving away from restaurant-style cooking and are now serving 'proper' pub food."             

The Joiners has kept up with demand thanks to its extremely popular Auberge Nights on Tuesdays, when diners are treated to a set three-course menu for £13.95. The restaurant's famous Sunday lunches continue to prove very popular, while Fish Thursdays offer customers from land-locked Leicestershire the chance to taste a broad range of top-quality sea food dishes, all served with a complimentary glass of wine.