Swansea’s The Shed Named Best New Restaurant in Wales
Exciting news for food enthusiasts in Wales as Swansea’s The Shed has been crowned one of the UK’s best new restaurants according to prestigious travel publication Condé Nast Traveller. The fine dining venue, located on Swansea’s Waterfront, has been recognised for its exceptional use of Welsh produce and innovative culinary offerings. The restaurant was established in February 2024 by Swansea-born chef Jonathan Woolway, who returned to his home city after 16 years of working in London.
Jonathan Woolway’s decision to open The Shed in Swansea was driven by his desire to bring high-quality dining experiences to his hometown. Having honed his skills at the renowned St John restaurant in London, Woolway felt it was the perfect time to embark on this new venture. Reflecting on his journey back to Swansea, Woolway shared, “It was always a lifelong dream to come back home to Swansea and have my own restaurant one day. I think being home so long over that Covid period really accelerated the process for me.”
The accolade from Condé Nast Traveller’s Top New Restaurants of 2024 list is a testament to the dedication and passion that Woolway and his team have poured into The Shed. The judging panel, which included esteemed chefs and food critics, highlighted the restaurant’s commitment to modern Welsh cuisine and its welcoming atmosphere. Reviewer Jude Rogers praised The Shed for its unpretentious yet delightful menu, featuring dishes like cockle croquettes, potted Car-Y-Mor crab, and olive oil parfait.
In addition to the recognition from Condé Nast Traveller, The Shed has garnered rave reviews from critics and diners alike. Food writer Grace Dent commended the restaurant for its emphasis on Welsh ingredients and delectable desserts in The Guardian. WalesOnline’s review also lauded The Shed as a celebration of Wales and its culinary heritage. Furthermore, the restaurant has been featured in esteemed guides such as the Michelin Guide and The Good Food Guide.
Situated in the historic J Shed building in Swansea, The Shed offers a unique dining experience amidst a modern industrial setting. The menu changes daily based on locally sourced produce, showcasing the team’s creativity and commitment to freshness. Executive chef Jonathan Woolway emphasised the importance of working with small producers and delivering consistent quality to guests.
The success of The Shed is a testament to Jonathan Woolway’s vision and the hard work of his dedicated team. By championing Welsh ingredients and creating a warm and inviting atmosphere, the restaurant has captured the hearts of diners and critics alike. The Shed’s signature dishes, such as the beloved cockle croquette, have become synonymous with the restaurant’s commitment to showcasing the best of Welsh cuisine.
As The Shed continues to impress both locals and visitors, it stands as a shining example of Wales’ thriving culinary scene. With its well-deserved accolades and loyal following, The Shed has firmly established itself as a must-visit destination for food lovers in Swansea and beyond. Whether indulging in a Chef’s Choices menu or savouring a traditional Welsh dish, guests can expect a memorable dining experience at this award-winning restaurant.