Welsh chef Gareth Ward’s Ynyshir restaurant has been named one of the UK’s top dining spots, impressing even Hairy Biker Simon King with its culinary delights.
Machynlleth: So, Simon King, you know, the Hairy Biker, just raved about this restaurant in Wales called Ynyshir. He was on a cooking show with Gareth Ward, the chef there, and he couldn’t stop talking about how amazing it was to cook with him. Simon said it was a “wonderful experience” to see Gareth in action.
They were on James Martin’s Saturday Morning show, and it was clear Simon was impressed. Gareth even complimented Simon’s cooking, saying, “what you are doing is amazing.” You could tell Simon felt a bit of pressure cooking next to such a talented chef!
Now, here’s the kicker: Ynyshir just got voted one of the top 100 restaurants in the UK again. It’s been a bit of a rollercoaster for them, though. Last year, they were ranked 17th, but now they’ve dropped to 93rd. Still, they’re the only two Michelin-starred restaurant in Wales, which is pretty cool.
Ynyshir is known for its pricey dining experience, costing around £395 per person. Some diners think it’s a bit overhyped and not worth the money, while others absolutely love it. It seems like you either love it or hate it!
Gareth, who grew up in County Durham, didn’t always plan to be a chef. He had dreams of joining the army or the fire brigade but ended up in hospitality by chance. Once he got a taste of working in Michelin-starred kitchens, he was hooked.
When he took over Ynyshir, it was a traditional country hotel, but he transformed it into a restaurant with rooms. The menu is a reflection of his favorite dishes, elevated to a whole new level. He’s all about using the best ingredients and creating a fun atmosphere for diners.
Gareth’s passion really shines through in his cooking. He loves to play with flavors and make classic dishes even better. The vibe at Ynyshir is lively, and he’s built a great team that feels like family. It’s all about having a good time while enjoying fantastic food.
Peter Harden, co-founder of Harden’s, mentioned that while Gareth is a talented chef, the high prices at Ynyshir might be turning some diners away. It’s definitely a place that sparks strong opinions, making it a hot topic in the dining scene.