Abergavenny named among UK's best foodie towns - here's why
Abergavenny features among Olive's list of culinary hotspots, the full list of which can be seen below.
13 must-visit UK foodie destinations, picked by the experts https://t.co/OsJuTZXfMI — olive magazine (@olivemagazine) July 3, 2025
The small UK towns every foodie should visit
The 17 small towns across the UK that every foodie should visit, according to Olive Magazine, are:
Totnes (Devon)
Alnwick (Northumberland)
Falmouth (Cornwall)
Folkestone (Kent)
Jersey (Channel Islands)
Reigate (Surrey)
Hebden Bridge (West Yorkshire)
Bruton (Somerset)
Lyme Regis (Dorset)
Stockbridge (Scotland)
Aldeburgh (Suffolk)
Malton (Yorkshire)
Studland (Dorset)
Moreton-in-Marsh (Cotswolds)
Tisbury (Wiltshire)
North Berwick (Scotland)
Deal (Kent)
Orford (Suffolk)
Abergavenny (Wales)
Clitheroe (Lancashire)
Porthleven (Cornwall)
Bridport (Dorset)
Ashburton (Devon)
Kendal (Lake District)
Why Abergavenny is a 'must-visit' for foodies
Abergavenny is a 'must-visit' for foodies due to its annual food festival, which takes place in September.
Olive describes the Abergavenny Food Festival as "one of the most creative and dynamic culinary gatherings in the UK", as well as being one of the longest-running.
The food experts add: "Regulars come for talks by Diana Henry and Bee Wilson, Dinner Party masterclasses with Rosie Birkett and Elly Pear, vegan BBQing tips from Matt Pritchard, debates on sustainable farming, a children's cookery school and outdoor feasts based around wild cooking."
Beyond the festival, the "quiet market town" boasts a wide range of independent shops, including The Angel Bakery and The Marchers Deli.
While the best place for breakfast and lunch in Abergavenny, according to Olive, is The Kitchen at The Chapel, "where the soda bread is baked each morning and might be served with pumpkin, butter bean and olive oil soup and a local craft cider".
Another place to try is the Michelin-starred Walnut Tree Inn, which is located just outside town.
RECOMMENDED READING:
Best places to eat in Abergavenny according to Tripadvisor
There are several other restaurants in Abergavenny that come highly recommended by visitors.
The top five places to eat, according to reviews and ratings on Tripadvisor, are:
Jolly Colliers Inn The Crown Anatolian Restaurant The Gaff The Walnut Tree
Where is your favourite place for food in Abergavenny? Let us know in the comments below.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Daily Mirror
6 hours ago
- Daily Mirror
Best beach in the world with 'whitest sand' is 'paradise' for travellers
It has been named the best beach in the world for those looking to enjoy the warm weather and relax on the white sands, according to a new study Many Brits love to escape the dreary weather for a day by the sea. Perhaps it's the golden sand, crystal clear water or simply the warmer climate that draws you in. Well, Luxury holiday company CV Villas has conducted research to find out which beaches boast the whitest sand in the world. Let's be honest, nothing screams 'perfect beach' more than pristine white sand. The study analysed Google Maps images of approximately 200 beaches, examining the colour of each shoreline to determine the results. Unsurprisingly, the beach with the whitest sand is nowhere near the UK, but it's certainly worth the flight time, reports the Express. Tulum Beach in Mexico was crowned as having the whitest sand in the world, as it had the least deviation from pure white. Tulum Beach sits on the Yucatan coast of Mexico at the country's southeastern tip, looking out to the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea. Tulum is a huge tourist destination known for its beaches and well-preserved ruins of an ancient Mayan port city. The main building is a large stone structure called El Castillo which sits atop a rocky cliff looking down across the white sand beach and turquoise sea. Given its tourist draw, there are plenty of hotels, restaurants and bars situated throughout the long narrow stretch of town. However, some visitors on Tripadvisor do note that prices can be high for amenities such as parking. Having visited in July 2024, an American tourist left a Tripadvisor review saying the area had both "good and bad" points. They described the beach, however, as a "paradise". Coming in second place was Anse Source D'Argent in the Seychelles, which had a variation of 4.3, and Marmari Beach in Greece took third place with a variation of 6.5. Here are the top 20 beaches with the whitest sand: 1. Tulum Beach, Mexico 2. Anse Source D'Argent, Seychelles 3. Marmari Beach, Greece 4. Tropea Beach, Italy and Platja de Muro, Spain 6. Cala Pluma, Spain 7. Plage de Valras, France 8. Cala Brandinchi, Italy 9. Stocking Island Beach, Bahamas and Taylor Bay Beach, Turks and Caicos 11. Varadero Beach, Cuba 12. Punta Prosciutto, Italy 13. Maya Bay Beach, Thailand 14. Carmel Beach, USA 15. Bamboo Island Beach, Thailand 16. Siesta Key Beach, USA 17. Spiaggia La Pelosa, Italy 18. Flamenco Beach, Puerto Rico and Luskentyre Beach, Scotland 20. Grace Bay, Turks and Caicos Eight of the top 10 destinations are in Europe. If you're after a beach closer to home, Scotland's Luskentyre Beach shares the eighteenth spot with Flamenco Beach in Puerto Rico.
Scotsman
6 hours ago
- Scotsman
Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice Awards: the top 15 destinations to visit in the UK
Looking to make the most of the last of your summer holidays, but unsure what destination to head to next? Perhaps a brand new set of awards from Tripadvisor might add some inspiration to your itinerary? The Travellers' Choice Awards recognise some of the world's best destinations, hotels, restaurants, and activities and are based entirely on the reviews and opinions of real travellers and diners from around the globe over 12 months. The winners come from a ranking of the top 1% of all listings on Tripadvisor worldwide, and are given based on the quality and quantity of exceptional reviews and ratings for specific categories and geographic areas – and while we could be jet-setting around the world, we thought it best to keep things close to home. Admittedly, getting an aeroplane ticket at this stage of the holidays might be asking a bit much. So for those who would prefer the comfort of travelling around the United Kingdom to see out the great British summer holiday this year, we've picked the top 15 attractions, all once again voted for by users of the online platform, to aid you in your quest of what to do with the remaining time – and good weather currently – before returning to work later this year. 1 . Jack The Ripper Guided Walking Tour - London Journey back to the grim, gas-lit streets of 1888 on The Jack the Ripper Walking Tour. With a seasoned "Ripperologist" as your guide, you'll retrace the killer's footsteps through the labyrinthine alleys of Whitechapel. This meticulously researched tour doesn't just tell a story; it transports you, offering a compelling blend of historical facts, modern theories, and a fascinating glimpse into the lives of those caught in the shadow of one of London's most notorious figures. It's a unique and intimate exploration of a dark and intriguing past. | TripAdvisor/Operator Photo Sales 2 . Guided Celtic Park Stadium Tour - Glasgow Experience the magic of Celtic Park! This isn't just a tour—it's a full-access pass to the rich history and culture of the club. Get behind the scenes, take amazing photos, and dive into our interactive exhibits. This is the ultimate family-friendly, all-abilities adventure, complete with great food and a welcoming atmosphere. It's an unforgettable experience that offers fantastic value for every fan. | SNS Group Photo Sales 3 . The Great British Rock and Roll Walking Tour - London Plug into London's legendary music scene on The Great British Rock and Roll Walking Tour! Your expert guide will take you on a thrilling journey to the city's most iconic music spots, sharing surprising trivia and entertaining stories that bring rock history to life. | Tripadvisor/Operator Photo Sales 4 . Isle of Skye and Eilean Donan Castle Day Tour - Inverness Experience the best of the Scottish Highlands in a single day! The Isle of Skye and Eilean Donan Castle tour from Inverness delivers dramatic scenery, rich history, and hidden gems. Your lively guide will keep you entertained with stories and insights, while comfortable travel and a balanced pace ensure a relaxing adventure. | Tripadvisor/Management Photo Sales Related topics: BoostTicketsTripAdvisorDestinationsHolidays
Time Out
7 hours ago
- Time Out
What the Michelin Experience is like at Riccitelli Bistró
There are dining experiences that aim to dazzle with fireworks—and others that move you through simplicity and honesty, making you feel at home with a welcoming atmosphere created by the relaxed staff in casual uniforms, a garden surrounded by vineyards where sunlight sparkles on the glassware, and background music that could easily be a friend's playlist. Riccitelli Bistró belongs to the latter. In this corner of Las Compuertas, the experience is warm, relaxed, close, and deeply rooted in Mendoza. With tables set on a veranda facing the garden and vineyard, this winery restaurant has just earned its first Michelin star and retains its 2024 Green Star for its sustainable approach and use of every single ingredient the Mendocinean soil provides. But what's most striking is that everyone there—including chef Juan Ventureyra, whom we had the luxury of interviewing in depth —acts as if they haven't won any awards at all. Because they've never lost the joy of cooking, the commitment to showcasing local products, the simplicity of their space built inside a shipping container, or their desire for guests to leave with full hearts. And that's exactly what makes it unique. Riccitelli: A Winery Bistro Where the Landscape Is Part of the Meal Open only for lunch, the restaurant is part of the wine world of Matías Riccitelli, one of the leading names in modern Argentine winemaking. The concept was created by Juan Ventureyra, who runs the kitchen surrounded by squash, sage blossoms, fruit trees, and right beside an acequia —the traditional Mendocinean irrigation channels—lined with wild herbs and greens that go directly to the plate. 'Eighty percent of my cooking is plant-based, with a little meat, a little dairy, and a little flour, without sacrificing flavor or texture,' says the chef, who remains relaxed throughout service, stopping by every table to check in personally. '80% of my cooking is plant-based, with a little meat, a little dairy, and a little flour—without sacrificing flavor or texture' The philosophy at Riccitelli Bistró is crystal clear: showcase Mendoza on the plate. Serve what the fertile land gives, what's grown in the garden, and what irrigation nurtures through the acequia. All of it perfectly paired with the grandeur of the mountains and Matías Riccitelli's exceptional wines, which are presented tableside by his sister, Verónica Riccitelli. What's on the Menu at Riccitelli Bistró? The menu changes daily and seasonally, depending on what's available. It's usually a six-course tasting dubbed Menú Mendoza, though it includes much more than just six experiences: small plates delivered at an individual rhythm, delicate vinaigrettes and seasonings that enhance rather than mask the natural flavors of vegetables, herbs, and edible flowers. The culinary journey began with a glass of Kung Fu Pet Nat and a trio of spreads: white bean purée, parsley oil, and a mint-carrot leaf mix, all served with fresh-baked crunchy bread. Then came a series of colorful small plates served together: beet tartare with amaranth crackers, pickled radishes, and wild greens; cavolo nero with spring onion gremolata, almonds, and lemon; a mini black olive alfajor filled with ricotta, lemon, and mint; chestnut cream with orange syrup, wild fennel, and pink sage blossom. The parade of textures and colors went on. In a shared plate: slices of seven radish varieties with baby carrots. In another: thinly sliced green apple parcels—like fogottinis—filled with pea cream and a mint center. These flavors paired perfectly with the 2024 Semillón Invader. Here, wine is not the star of the show but a thoughtful complement—one that reflects the land. 'We don't talk about provinces; we refer to Argentina's ecoregions, because the ingredients carry the essence of the soil and climate—not of political divisions,' Juan explains, an idea that comes to life in his Menú Argentina. 'We refer to Argentina's ecoregions, not provinces' For instance, a 2021 Pinot Noir Rosé from Río Negro is served with an unexpected winery dish: squid noodle soup. The squid is sliced into thin strips resembling noodles and served with miso, sesame, and mushrooms. 'This Patagonian wine is made just 100 km from the port where the squid is sourced,' Juan explains. 'We wanted to add a little coastal moisture and southern flavor for a regional and emotional pairing.' A Pause, A Thousand Opportunities for Natural Contemplation 'I've always wanted people to spend more time outside the restaurant than inside,' says the chef, gazing at the lush garden. And it shows. Everything at Riccitelli Bistró is designed to connect with the surroundings: the acequias flowing between vineyard rows, pumpkins and peppers still in the garden, olive trees, wild edible roots, birdsong, and the flavor of a land that practically cooks itself. Also of interest: The route through 9 Michelin Guide recommended restaurants Between courses, guests are encouraged to stretch their legs, explore the garden, take in the mountain views, and see where each ingredient comes from. The experience invites you to relax, to feel at home—and yet, in a place that's one of a kind. There's no rush. The pace follows each guest's rhythm and mood. After a lunch break, the journey continues: a cauliflower floret atop a carrot purée, with mizuna, mint, and toasted peanuts with cumin—leading up to the main meat course. Unexpectedly, it's not a premium steak cut but a humble and perfect choice: asado ruso, a slow-cooked beef roll often found in Mendoza homes, served tender and juicy with a romesco sauce. To drink, the 2021 República de Malbec, a blend of grapes from Las Compuertas, San Pablo, Gualtallary, and Chacayes. And the side dish? The so-called 'bomb plate,' a plant-based manifesto of sorts: over 30 varieties of garden greens and sprouts, served without dressing to let each one express its natural flavor. 'I suggest not mixing—just pick them up with your fork one by one and be surprised,' advises the chef. A Final Gem To close, a rare treasure: Riccitelli Rancio NV, a special wine made exclusively for the bistró, with no vintage and only 200 bottles a year. Aged for years in barrels and glass demijohns under the sun. Paired with a simple yet unforgettable dessert: a pear stuffed with almond frangipane, drizzled with caramel sauce over almond liqueur crème anglaise. An herbal infusion and a fennel and mint profiterole wrapped up the journey. 'It's like an infusion from the acequia —the greens just grow wild on the banks,' Juan laughs. A delicate, balanced, and flavorful ending. 'You're teaching us to eat vegetables in a whole new way,' someone told Ventureyra after this incredible meal. He smiled and replied, 'What I do is highlight the place—tell the story of what the land gives, through a sensitive lens. That won't change, no matter what color the star is.' A Personal, Sensitive, Joyful Project Beyond the food, Riccitelli Bistró is an emotional experience. 'I invested all my savings to open this place and see what would happen. We were full for four years, then the pandemic hit—but we came back stronger than ever. This bistró is so full of adrenaline, so personal, so family-driven…' Juan shares. There are no Sunday services, no dinner seatings. The restaurant only opens when the whole team is fully energized. 'That way I can share time with my family and friends. And if we're happy, our guests will be too.' Maybe that's why the Michelin star didn't change anything—it just affirmed the path. So, what's next after this 'gastronomic Oscar'? Juan dreams of a greenhouse among the vines and garden beds, where people can eat while working the land and harvesting the food. 'Still, the goal remains the same: more connection, more nature, more sensitivity,' he says, with the passion of someone who truly loves vegetables.
