The 14-bedroom Sandgate hotel was bought in 1995 by Samy Gicqueau, a former pastry sous chef at Raymond Blanc's Le Manoir aux Quat'Sasison, and his wife, Zara. Within two years, Gicqueau had won a Michelin star for the 22-seat La Terrasse restaurant. The property was put up for sale about 18 months ago with agent Christie & Co, but was taken off the market again this spring.
A spokesman at the Michelin UK restaurant guide said Gicqueau had informed them that the hotel and restaurant was closing down for good about a month ago, and that he and Zara were moving back to France.
It is not yet clear whether the hotel has been sold, either as a hotel or as a residence. Gicqueau could not be contacted about his future plans.
Read's in Faversham is now Kent's only Michelin-starred restaurant.
