Forget everything you thought you knew about Welsh cuisine—this isn’t just leeks and lamb. Wales is undergoing a gastronomic renaissance, blending historic charm with bold, modern flavors. Whether you’re craving Michelin-star magic, seaside pub comfort, or farm-fresh indulgence, this list of 10 sensational restaurants, hotels, and pubs will take you on an unforgettable culinary adventure across Wales!
1. The King’s Head Inn, Gower – A Coastal Gem with a Spicy Twist
Nestled near Rhossili Beach, one of the most breathtaking coastal spots in Wales, The King’s Head Inn is where history meets spice. Dating back to the 17th century, this charming inn is a haven for beach lovers and foodies alike. Surprisingly, the menu leans toward Vietnamese, Thai, and Indian curries, offering an exotic twist on traditional Welsh fare. Dog-friendly and full of character, this spot is perfect for refueling after exploring Gower’s golden shores. Must-Try: Vietnamese beef pho & creamy coconut prawn curry Doubles from £135 B&B | Website: kingsheadgower.co.uk
2. Inn at the Sticks, Llansteffan – Rustic Elegance Meets Local Flavors
History, charm, and seriously good food—this 1806-built inn has it all. A recent revamp has turned it into a culinary hotspot, winning the Best Local Restaurant for Wales in the 2024 Good Food Guide. Expect inventive dishes like cockle popcorn and beef brisket Wellington, paired with fine Welsh wines. Bonus: There’s a deli on-site, so you can take a piece of Wales home with you. Must-Try: Slow-cooked pork belly with truffle mash Doubles from £120 B&B | Website: innatthesticks.com
3. Forage at Penllyn Estate, Vale of Glamorgan – The Ultimate Farm-to-Fork Experience
If farm-fresh perfection is your thing, Forage is your dream dining destination. Set on the sprawling Penllyn Estate, this pastoral paradise serves up succulent steaks, hearty roasts, and oxtail hash straight from the farm. With free-range hens, rare-breed pigs, and lush greenery all around, every bite here is as fresh as it gets. Must-Try: 28-day aged ribeye steak with rosemary butter Doubles from £80, room only | Website: cowbridgecabins.co.uk
4. Bodnant Welsh Food, Conwy – A Culinary Wonderland in the Heart of Wales
Welcome to Wales’ ultimate foodie hub! Whether you want to dine, shop, stay, or cook, Bodnant has it all. The Courtyard Café offers light bites and Welsh roasted coffee, while The Hayloft serves up elegant, seasonal cuisine. Want to learn how to cook Welsh classics? Join a hands-on cooking class! Must-Try: Welsh rarebit with artisan cheese from the farm shop Doubles from £150 B&B | Website: bodnant-welshfood.co.uk
5. Caws Cenarth, Carmarthenshire – Heaven for Cheese Lovers
Calling all cheese fanatics! Caws Cenarth is Wales’ oldest farmhouse cheese producer, crafting exceptional caerphilly, blue cheese, and creamy brie for six generations. Visit on Mondays and Wednesdays to witness cheese-making in action or stay overnight in the cozy Dairy apartment—perfect for an indulgent cheese and wine retreat. Must-Try: Traditional Caerphilly cheese paired with Welsh honey Apartments from £125 a night | Website: cawscenarth.co.uk
6. The Priory Hotel & Restaurant, Caerleon – Spanish Flair in Historic Wales
Caerleon, a Roman-era gem, now boasts a Spanish-inspired culinary retreat. Following a major revamp, The Priory now features an open kitchen, dry-aging fridges, and a stellar wine selection. Its 27 country-chic rooms offer a luxurious escape after indulging in sumptuous pork belly or venison barbacoa. Must-Try: Dry-aged venison barbacoa with smoky hispi cabbage Doubles from £165, room only | Website: thepriorycaerleon.co.uk
7. Home at Penarth, Vale of Glamorgan – Michelin-Starred Magic
This Michelin-starred hideaway is an eight-course dream led by chef James Sommerin and his daughter, Georgia. With a constantly evolving menu, expect exquisite dishes like laverbread with cultured seaweed butter and liquid pea ravioli with crispy sage. New bonus: You can now stay the night in the brand-new luxury apartment. Must-Try: Honey and chamomile custard with warm doughnuts Apartments from £150 a night | Website: homeatpenarth.co.uk
8. Narberth, Pembrokeshire – Wales’ Rising Foodie Capital
Narberth is officially on the foodie map! With a Michelin Green Star restaurant (Annwn), a buzzing street food scene, and legendary bakeries, this is the place to indulge. Whether you’re craving foraged fine dining, sizzling street food, or Spanish delicacies, Narberth has it all. Must-Try: 10-course tasting menu at Annwn Doubles from £115 B&B | Website: annwnrestaurant.co.uk
9. Llys Meddyg Hotel & Restaurant, Newport – Cozy Luxury with a Smoky Twist
This charming 15th-century retreat is all about warm fires, wood-fired feasts, and cozy nooks. With a Secret Garden dining area and a historic cellar bar, it’s perfect for romantic getaways or stormy winter nights in Wales. Must-Try: Smoked mackerel pâté with warm sourdough Doubles from £125 B&B | Website: llysmeddyg.com
10. Cardiff Central Market – A Historic Feast for the Senses
Since the 1700s, Cardiff Central Market has been a bustling hub of flavors and culture. Here, you can grab cockles, griddled Welsh cakes, Polish pierogi, and even vegan bao under the century-old glass roof. Stay nearby at Parador 44, a stylish boutique hotel with Spanish-inspired décor. Must-Try: Freshly griddled Welsh cakes from Bakestones Doubles from £129 B&B | Website: grupo44.co.uk
The post Are These the Most Unique Food Experiences in Wales? From Cheese-Making in Carmarthenshire to Foraging in the Vale of Glamorgan, Find Out Here! appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
