Wales is a nation that deserves to be known for far more than just Mount Snowdon, rugby and Gareth Bale. Granted, it is a beautiful country with many a rolling hill – and its sporting exploits over the years are to be much-admired – but Wales is also a brilliant destination for your next gastronomic getaway. Fed by the superb produce of the land, the nation is home to several MICHELIN Star restaurants which offer a delicious accompaniment to all that wonderful scenery. Read on to discover more about them.
Ynyshir, Machynlleth
Standing as the only Two Star establishment in Wales, this destination restaurant on the edge of Snowdonia National Park has proudly ploughed its own furrow from the day it opened. From the black-painted exterior to having its own DJ, there’s a unique feel to proceedings here, where Chef-Owner Gareth Ward treats guests to around 30 or so intricate, imaginative dishes. First-class produce pairs with bold flavours and a heavy dose of Japanese influences for a dining experience that is truly memorable.
Beach House, Oxwich
This charming restaurant has a beautiful, secluded setting right on the sands of Oxwich Bay, and chef and native Welshman Hywel Griffith champions produce from local farmers and fishermen on menus written in both English and Welsh. The assured, confident cooking showcases these ingredients in dishes that neatly balance their richness with acidity; the various components of each dish work together in harmony to let the central ingredient shine. Go for the full tasting menu to fully experience Hywel’s talents.
Home, Penarth
‘Home’ means many different things to different people – but one constant is a feeling of comfort and care, which this intimate restaurant delivers in spades. James Sommerin’s charming eatery is a friendly, family-run affair where James’ daughter Georgia joins him in the kitchen. Like many of Wales’ other Starred restaurants, prime native produce is a feature on the menu, fashioned into seasonally influenced dishes that carry plenty of flavour.
Sosban & The Old Butchers, Menai Bridge
So good they named him twice, Stephen Stevens offers an intricate culinary journey to a select number of guests at this relaxed restaurant in a rustic former butcher’s shop on the Isle of Anglesey. Light wood tables lend a bright feel to the place and an open kitchen adds to the immersive nature of the experience. The surprise menu showcases local produce in original, boldly flavoured dishes and the clever combinations are expertly balanced, demonstrating Stephen’s innate understanding of cooking techniques.
The Whitebrook, Whitebrook
Holding both One Star and a MICHELIN Green Star, Chef-Owner Chris Harrod’s commitment to sustainability is evident at every turn here. His cooking is overtly influenced by his surroundings, with foraged ingredients and vegetables from the organic, no-dig kitchen garden both used in the ever-so-light, botanical dishes. Its remote woodland setting adds a degree of charm to the place, which feels every inch a destination restaurant.
Walnut Tree, Llanddewi Skirrid
The Walnut Tree sits in rolling hills, two miles east of Abergavenny, and has been one of the country’s leading destination restaurants since the 1960s. Chef Shaun Hill has been behind the stoves here for over 20 years, cooking the sort of food he likes to eat himself, and the restaurant has held a Star since 2010. Dishes have an apparent simplicity that belies the expert craft behind them, with offal being a highlight if it’s your thing. The Walnut Tree also has the happy distinction of being one of the cheapest MICHELIN Star restaurants in the UK.
London by The MICHELIN Guide
Bib Gourmand Restaurants in Wales
In addition to its MICHELIN Starred eateries, Wales also boasts four restaurants that have been awarded a Bib Gourmand. Recognising great value for money, the Bib Gourmand is a sign that you’re in for a good time. Delicious dishes without breaking the bank: what more could you ask for?
The Bib Gourmand restaurants in Wales are:
Bryn Williams at Porth Eirias, Colwyn Bay
Hare & Hounds, Aberthin
Touring Club, Penarth
Yr Hen Printworks, Cardigan
Green Star Restaurants in Wales
A common theme among the finest restaurants in Wales is their chefs’ love of the land’s bountiful produce. As such, it’s no surprise that four of the UK’s Green Star restaurants can be found here. Each one takes its own approach to sustainable gastronomy, but all are united by their commitment to a greener future for our industry.
The Green Star restaurants in Wales are:
ANNWN, Narberth
CHAPTERS, Hay-on-Wye
Henry Robertson, Llandderfel
The Whitebrook, Whitebrook
Discover more about ANNWN and its fabulous foraging with our behind the scenes video.
