The culinary scene in Wales has been soaring to new heights in 2025 with a diverse array of restaurants earning prestigious accolades from the likes of the Michelin Guide, Good Food Guide, and AA Hospitality Awards. From modern Welsh multi-course tasting menus to traditional pub classics, Wales is proving its prowess in the culinary world.
With a plethora of options ranging from punchy southern Indian feasts to smoky Spanish-style grills, Wales’ dining landscape continues to evolve and surprise diners. From hidden gems in picturesque villages to chic city eateries redefining fine dining, Welsh restaurants are making a mark on the global culinary stage.
One standout establishment leading the pack is Gorse in Pontcanna, which was awarded a Michelin star in February 2025 for its modern Welsh tasting menus. The intimate restaurant has garnered rave reviews for its innovative dishes like preserved wild mushrooms on a bed of juniper berries, cementing its status as a must-visit culinary gem in Cardiff.
In Abergavenny, The Walnut Tree under the helm of Shaun Hill continues to impress with its unfussy yet imaginative fare, earning a Michelin star since 2010. Meanwhile, Ynyshir in Machynlleth stands out as the only Welsh restaurant with two Michelin stars, offering a lavish 30-course tasting menu that has wowed foodies and critics alike.
Paternoster Farm in Pembrokeshire is a hidden gem producing exceptional dishes from locally sourced produce in a charming converted cow shed. The focus on seasonality and sustainability shines through in their menu, featuring delights like slow-cooked home-reared beef in Pembrokeshire beer.
In Swansea, The Shed SA1 boasts a menu brimming with the best of Welsh ingredients, crafted by former St John group chef, Jonathan Woolway. The restaurant’s coastal location adds to the experience, offering stunning views alongside delectable dishes like grilled mackerel with rainbow chard and anchovy.
Further north, Sheeps and Leeks in Caernarfon has gained a loyal following for its honest cooking and well-balanced tasting menus. The restaurant’s emphasis on local artisan producers and seasonal ingredients has earned it accolades from Michelin and the Good Food Guide, making it a must-visit in North Wales.
In Cardiff, Heaney’s has solidified its reputation as a top dining destination with chef Tommy Heaney’s expertly cooked fish and barbecued meat offerings. The restaurant’s laid-back atmosphere, shared plates, and global wine selection make it a favourite among locals and visitors alike.
For those seeking a taste of Northern Chinese cuisine, Janet’s Authentic Northern Chinese Restaurant in Pontypridd offers an award-winning menu curated by self-taught chef Janet Wei. Championing dishes like Korean honey chicken and sweet and sour pork, Janet’s culinary prowess has earned her accolades like the Champion Streetfood title at The British Street Food Awards.
With a plethora of culinary delights spanning from fine dining establishments to cosy village inns, Wales’ dining scene in 2025 continues to captivate food enthusiasts and critics alike. Whether you’re craving a Michelin-starred tasting menu or a hearty Welsh lamb dish, Wales offers a diverse array of options to satisfy every palate.