A new restaurant is set to bring a breath of fresh air to Carmarthen’s St Catherine’s Walk shopping centre, which has been struggling due to closures. The location has been vacant since Frankie & Benny’s closed in 2023, and now, a successful independent restaurant company, The Welsh House, is stepping in to revitalize the space. The Welsh House has already opened three restaurants in Wales in the past year and a half, with the latest venue in Carmarthen featuring a rooftop garden.
The arrival of The Welsh House is seen as a positive development for the area, which has faced challenges during and after the Covid-19 pandemic. The opening of this new restaurant comes at a critical time for Carmarthen, as the town has witnessed the closure of several high street chains in recent years, impacting St Catherine’s Walk shopping centre significantly.
The Welsh House’s focus on Welsh cuisine and local ingredients is expected to resonate well with the community. The company’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its plans to incorporate a rooftop garden at the new venue, along with community events. The restaurant company’s success in Cardiff, Swansea, and Neath has encouraged it to expand to Carmarthen, bringing hope for economic revitalization and job creation in the area.
Speaking about the upcoming opening, Sam Jones, Welsh Cultural and Language Ambassador for The Welsh House, expressed excitement about representing Welsh hospitality in Carmarthen. The restaurant’s menu will feature traditional Welsh dishes using locally sourced produce to create authentic and delicious meals. The Welsh House has built a reputation for working closely with local suppliers, such as Carmarthen Ham, Caws Cenarth, and Mario’s Ice Cream.
The Welsh House’s collaboration with local suppliers, including Castell Howell, is seen as a boost to the region’s economy. The restaurant’s commitment to showcasing the best of Welsh produce, such as Celtic Pride Beef, aligns with its mission to promote regional flavours. Welsh figures like Wynne Evans, winner of Celebrity MasterChef, have welcomed the arrival of The Welsh House in Carmarthen, highlighting the positive impact it will have on the local community.
The restaurant’s opening is expected to create job opportunities for front and back-of-house staff in Carmarthen. With plans to open before the end of October, The Welsh House aims to contribute to the town’s tourism and hospitality sector. Local leaders, such as Darren Price from Carmarthenshire Council, have welcomed the news, recognising the potential economic benefits for the area. The restaurant’s emphasis on supporting Welsh producers and offering a unique dining experience is anticipated to attract locals and visitors alike to St Catherine’s Walk shopping centre.