Ynyshir Restaurant and Rooms

If there is one restaurant in the UK that deserves a special trip, it is undoubtedly Ynyshir (2 Michelin stars), run by chef Gareth Ward and his wife Amelia. And it truly is a special trip. Nearly five hours by train from London to the north may seem lengthy, but it hardly feels long when you’re surrounded by the breathtaking views of Wales—long stretches of lush green landscapes with sheep grazing peacefully in the fields.
Taken over by the couple in 2016 and transformed into “a restaurant with rooms,” Ynyshir could perhaps be considered a “destination” restaurant, whose identity is closely tied to its surroundings. However, it is the food and the overall experience that would shine even in a less spectacular location.
Originally from the north of England, Gareth Ward has worked in several Michelin-starred kitchens, such as the legendary Sat Bains. But despite his classical training, the Ynishir experience is anything but traditional. “I cook whatever I like to eat, really,” Chef Gareth told me after my dinner, and you can really tell that his cooking is all about the flavor. He is also obsessed with sourcing the best ingredients one can get, whether it’s yellowtail from Japan, artisanal soy sauce, or coffee from Difference Coffee used for the tiramisu.
No storytelling or gimmicks, just 30 bites and small dishes of bold deliciousness—a flavourful and memorable voyage around the world that makes me want to return to Wales already.