IT'S the award all chefs crave. 

And while there may not be any Michelin star restaurants right on our doorstep, our town's foodies don't have to travel for more than an hour to find a gastronomic experience. 

Of the 5 three star restaurants, 23 two star restaurants and 159 one star restaurants in this year's guide, we have picked out the ones which are not far for you to travel including Manchester's first Michelin star in more than 40 years.

Commenting on the 2020 selection, Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the Michelin guides, said: “Despite the obvious challenges being faced by the industry here in the UK, we are thrilled that this has been such a stellar year, and we have seen many first ventures opening and rapidly rising to success."

Mana, Manchester - One star

Set in Ancoats, this restaurant has been applauded across Greater Manchester after becoming the first restaurant in the city to receive a Michelin star in more than 40 years.

Judges said chef Simon Martin 'nods to modern Nordic cuisine but retains his own identity'.

A spokesman added: "The perfectly paced set menu is further enhanced by the interaction with the chefs."

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Fraiche, Birkenhead - One star

Created with a theme of natural elements inspired by the shoreline, chef Marc Wilkinson and the team say they strive to create a relaxed and less formal approach to service offering guests a warm welcome and a personal touch, while giving a professional and yet unobtrusive experience. 

A spokesman added "Each season in nature offers a subtle guideline to give him direction and inspiration drawing out the finest ingredients and nuances that reinforce the seasons, which is translated through his cuisine."

The restaurant is open for dinner Wednesday to Saturday and for lunch on Sunday.

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Simon Radley at Chester Grosvenor - One star

This restaurant has now held a prestigious Michelin star for 30 years as well as collecting 4 AA Rosettes, an AA Notable Wine List Award, recommendations in the Waitrose Good Food Guide and recognition as 'Best Hotel Restaurant' at the European Hospitality Awards.

Simon joined the team at The Chester Grosvenor in 1986 and apart from a few years gaining experience in London, has been at the helm of the operation for more than 20 years.

His food stems from a classical French training but he says has a firm stamp of the north west.

A spokesman added: "He championed regional produce a long time before it became en vogue, preferring a personal relationship with producers and a control on the quality of his ingredients."

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Northcote, Langho near Blackburn - One star

Described as 'elegant, stylish and sophisticated', the restaurant has views of the garden and hills of the beautiful Ribble Valley.

Run by managing director Craig Bancroft and executive chef Lisa Goodwin-Allen, it is renowned for its fine cuisine and serves traditional Lancashire recipes with a modern twist, created from local produce. 

A spokesman added: "Fine dining with professional but true Northern hospitality."

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White Swan, Fence in Lancashire - One star

Retaining a Michelin star after being one of three pubs in England to collect one last year, staff say it's a 'small menu but there's a difference'. 

A spokesman added: "For us, it's about just doing everything the best we can - sending out the best food; pouring the finest drinks; making people feel at home - ultimately sending you away as happy as we can.

"With our small seasonal menu you know immediately that the ingredients are fresh and well chosen.

"Our menu changes regularly and it takes a great deal of knowledge, experience and focus to create food that while delighting in its simplicity, is also highly accomplished & beautifully done."

Chef Tom Parker is at the helm of this one. 

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Northwich Guardian: Credit: The Swan Facebook pageCredit: The Swan Facebook page

Moor Hall, Aughton in Ormskirk - Two stars

Set in a grade II listed building steeped in history dating back to the thirteenth century, the site was acquired by Andy and Tracey Bell in 2015 and has since undergone a major renovation and refurbishment.

Chef Mark Birchall creates 'delicate, produce driven' menus inspired by the hall's natural surroundings has won countless awards in the past year including being named the best restaurant in the country at the National Restaurant Awards.

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Northwich Guardian: Credit: Moor Hall FacebookCredit: Moor Hall Facebook

You can see the complete list of 2020 Michelin star restaurants by clicking here