Ynyshir, a restaurant nestled near Machynlleth in Wales, has once again been celebrated as the finest dining establishment in the region, retaining its two Michelin stars at the 2025 Michelin Guide awards. The owner, Gareth Ward, originally from County Durham, has transformed the culinary experience at Ynyshir since taking over the Eglwys Bach hotel in 2013. Not only has the restaurant gained popularity among locals, but it has also attracted celebrities like Ed Sheeran.
Gareth Ward shared his passion for food, stating that his culinary creations stem from the dishes he loves to eat. His innovative approach includes using the best local ingredients, such as shrimps from nearby waters, to craft unique and flavourful dishes like Thai green curry with a twist. He emphasises the importance of pleasing oneself in the kitchen to create dishes that bring joy and satisfaction to both himself and his guests.
Having previously worked at renowned establishments like Seaham Hall, Hambledon Hall and Restaurant Sat Bains, Gareth’s expertise has earned Ynyshir numerous accolades. Last year, the restaurant was honoured as the best in Wales at the British Restaurant Awards, received two Michelin stars, and maintained its ‘World Class’ status in the Good Food Guide Awards. This consistent recognition highlights the commitment to excellence and creativity that defines Ynyshir’s dining experience.
At the 2025 Michelin Guide awards ceremony, other Welsh restaurants were also acknowledged for their culinary achievements. Gorse in Cardiff secured a Michelin star less than a year after opening, showcasing modern and creative food with a Welsh influence. Similarly, The Walnut Tree in Llanddewi Skirrid and Sosban and The Old Butchers in Menai Bridge retained their Michelin stars, reaffirming their status as top dining destinations in Wales.
Tom Waters, the talent behind Gorse, shared his journey into the culinary world, reflecting on his time studying abroad and discovering his passion for food. With a focus on innovative cuisine with a Welsh twist, Tom’s restaurant has quickly made a mark on the Cardiff dining scene. Meanwhile, Shaun Hill continues to uphold the legacy of The Walnut Tree, maintaining its reputation as one of Wales’ most revered restaurants for over a decade.
Sosban and The Old Butchers, led by chef Stephen Stevens, prides itself on delivering a refined dining experience rooted in locally foraged ingredients and inventive flavour combinations. Stephen’s dedication to crafting modern cuisine has elevated the restaurant’s offerings, showcasing dishes like cod with onion fudge and alliums, and lamb tails with cauliflower and mustard leaf. The evolving tasting menus highlight the creativity and passion driving the culinary scene in Wales.
As the culinary landscape in Wales continues to flourish, with establishments like Ynyshir and others setting high standards of quality and innovation, diners can look forward to exceptional dining experiences that celebrate local ingredients and culinary talent. With a mix of traditional favourites and contemporary creations, Welsh restaurants are carving out a distinct reputation for exceptional gastronomy that captivates both locals and visitors alike.