18 beautiful restaurants in Wales that are stunning settings for a meal

Wales Online

14 hours ago

18 beautiful restaurants in Wales that are stunning settings for a meal
From unique artwork to impeccable architecture, cosy atmosphere, rich history or modern decor, there are plenty of restaurants in Wales that offer good food in vibrant indoor settings
Wales has its fair share of amazing restaurants, some of which have become popular with locals and visitors alike, others have received international recognition and received countless awards.
And sometimes, we are lucky enough to enjoy their delicious food and impeccable surroundings. While some restaurants may focus very much on our amazing coastlines and countryside, others look closer to home to create a memorable culinary experience. From unique artwork to impeccable architecture, cosy atmosphere, rich history or modern decor, there are plenty of restaurants in Wales that offer good food in vibrant indoor settings.
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Here is a list of the best restaurants in Wales with the most beautiful interiors.
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Alternatively, you can read our guide to the restaurants with the most amazing views here. For the latest restaurant news and reviews, sign up to our food and drink newsletter here .
1. Rhosyn at Penally Abbey, Tenby
Rhosyn restaurant at Penally Abbey Hotel
(Image: Instagram / @penallyabbeyhotel )
Rhosyn means 'rose' in Welsh and while you'll find plenty of those in the garden, beauty can also be found within the walls of the restored country house of Penally Abbey in Pembrokeshire.
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The small restaurant is bursting with character - from its beautiful wallpaper to its fireplace and arched window frames. The menu is just as memorable as its decor, having made it onto the Michelin guide, its review reads: "The gorgeous setting provides a calming atmosphere in which to dine, with a tasting menu or an à la carte to choose from.
"The seasonally guided cooking is modern in execution but rooted in tried-and-tested flavours we all know and love. Pembrokeshire is well-represented on the menu, so look out for delicious local lamb and some superb new potatoes."
2. Roots Restaurant at Llanerch Vineyard, Hensol
Roots Restaurant at Llanerch Vineyard in Hensol, the Vale of Glamorgan
(Image: John Myers )
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Llanerch Vineyard blends rural charm with modern elegance, with its Roots Restaurant offering a refined interior. The award winning restaurant in the Vale of Glamorgan has a beautiful tree display, a trendy bar and comfy seating.
It's no wonder this venue is a popular destination for weddings, weekend getaways and wine lover alike who are seeking quiet luxury in the middle of the countryside.
On a summer's day, there's no better place to enjoy a beautifully crafted meal with a glass of wine while overlooking the rows of neat vines that stretch across the landscape outside.
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3. The Black Boy Inn, Caernarfon
The Black Boy Inn in Caernarfon, Gwynedd
(Image: WalesOnline )
This pub is centuries old but is still as popular as ever. Built in 1522, its the oldest pub in the Gwynedd town.
While the pub has long been praised for its selection of pub classic dishes and drinks, the inn itself is steeped in history which is clearly etched in its interior.
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When you walk in, you feel like you've stepped back in time with its exposed beams, low cut doorways, feature fireplaces and low lighting which gives it a candle-lit feel.
4. Paternoster Farm, Hundleton
Paternoster Farm in the village of Hundleton, Pembrokeshire
(Image: Paternoster Farm )
Paternoster Farm in the village of Hundleton, Pembrokeshire has been hailed as serving some of the very best food in Wales and has received rave reviews by the likes of the Good Food Guide, The Times and Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall.
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Situated in a former cowshed, the restaurant has a rustic charm to it, quirky in its decor, but remains cosy and homely.
5. Portmeirion, Penrhyndeudraeth
Portmeirion in Penrhyndeudraeth near Porthmadog, Gwynedd
(Image: Sony Xperia 5 II / Lonely Planet )
While Portmeirion may look impressive from the outside, it is just as interesting from within. Its Town Hall Cafe has a retro 50s style diner, while the hotel near the estuary offers luxury and elegance with its lounges and dining room.
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The genius behind the creation of Portmeirion village was architect Clough Williams-Ellis, who acquired the land in 1925. Clough was a tireless campaigner for the environment and was also an advocate of rural preservation, amenity planning, industrial design and colourful architecture.
His first job was to extend and convert the old house on the shore into a grand hotel. Portmeirion Hotel is recognised as a Grade II listed building.
6. Rhostio, Cardiff
Rhostio in Cathays, Cardiff
(Image: WalesOnline/Rob Browne )
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This building on Crwys Road has been many things in its lifetime; a coal exchange building, an aquatics shop and a car dealership. But now it is one of the trendiest coffee shops in Cardiff, which has its own roastery and roof terrace.
As you step inside, you'll be welcomed by the scent of freshly roasted coffee beans drifting through the modern, cool space. The downstairs area has retained its industrial charm, with exposed brickwork and high ceilings.
But it's upstairs where the real treat is. Grab a coffee and a bite to eat, and head upstairs to see the sprawling views of the Welsh capital.
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7. The Sorting Room at Parkgate Hotel, Cardiff
The Sorting Room at the Parkgate Hotel in Cardiff
This Michelin guide restaurant is situated in the former sorting room of the old Post Office, which was once filled with handwritten letters and brown paper packages. Today, the restaurant is adorned with glittering chandeliers, plush leather sofas and intimate lighting.
8. Henry Robertson at Pal
Palé Hall Hotel in Llandderfel near Y Bala
(Image: Pale Hall )
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One of Wales' most opulent hotels, when visitors enter Palé Hall, they are greeted by original features such as wood panelling, ornate ceilings, and antique furnishings, all blending seamlessly with modern amenities to create a luxurious ambiance.
The hotel includes the main hall, the Robertson dining room, the Seasons room with its ornate ceiling, a library and the Huntsman bar and bistro.
9. The Gunroom at Plas Dinas estate, Bontnewydd
Plas Dinas country house in Bontnewydd near Caernarfon
(Image: WalesOnline )
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Plas Dinas was once the former home of the Armstrong-Jones family before it was converted to a hotel and restaurant. The hotel's acclaimed Gunroom Restaurant has made it onto the Michelin guide and two Rosettes for culinary excellence amongst other accolades over the years.
Plas Dinas Country House was purchased by Daniel and Annie Perks in 2019 after they fell in love with the former Royal retreat. In the 1960s, this Gwynedd home served as a retreat for Lord Snowdon, formerly Anthony Armstrong-Jones, and Princess Margaret, providing a sanctuary away from the hustle and bustle of London life.
A dining experience here is like no other, with guests able to take a tour of the country home before dining at The Gunroom. The house still retains many of the Armstrong-Jones' family portraits, memorabilia and original furniture.
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10. Bacareto, Cardiff
Bacareto on Church Street in Cardiff
(Image: WalesOnline )
Bacareto, is a cafe bar inspired by traditional Venetian cafes - bàcari. It serves delicious, simple seasonal food and drink in a creative and social space.
The cafe has a relaxed and casual feel to it, with interesting wall art and posters on the wall and vibrant splashes of blue, yellow and orange in different sections.
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11. The Bell at Skenfrith, Skenfrith
The Bell at Skenfrith in Monmouthshire
(Image: Rob Besant )
Skenfrith is a picture-perfect retreat in the Welsh countryside, but for many, hotel and restaurant The Bell at Skenfrith is the highlight of their visit to this corner of Monmouthshire.
In 2024, its beer garden was named as one of the best in the UK by Time Out magazine. But on the inside, this 17th century inn has a cosy feel to it, exposed beams, a big fireplace and comfortable seating area.
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12. The Grove at Narberth, Narberth
The Grove at Narberth in Pembrokeshire
(Image: Grove of Narberth )
This award-winning restaurant and hotel had to make it onto the list. Its cosy yet stylish decor overlooks the fairytale grounds overlooking the vast Pembrokeshire countryside.
For just the day, this place is perfect for an afternoon tea. Its Artisan Room is light and airy, making it the ideal place to enjoy a relaxing and comfortable experience.
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But if you want to stay, each bedroom at The Grove is individually designed, with a modern twist on a traditional Welsh country house.
13. Sandy Mount House, Rhosneigr
Sandy Mount House in Rhosneigr, Anglesey
(Image: Daily Post Wales )
It's modern, classy and elegant and the perfect place dishes that champion the very best of local produce in this corner of Ynys Mon. "A home from home to eat, gather & sleep," it reads. "Think cosy corners, log fires & stylish interiors."
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14. Lan y Môr, Saundersfoot
Lan y Mor, Coppet Hall Beach Saundersfoot
(Image: Seren Collection )
On Copper Hall Beach in Saundersfoot, you'll find Lan y Môr restaurant - beautiful on the outside and on the inside.
Its modern architecture invites the breathtaking natural surroundings of the area, with large windows overlooking the beach and sea, with faux trees scattered around the restaurant area complemented by sleek and modern tables and chairs for diners.
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15. Ynyshir, Machynlleth
Ynyshir near Machynlleth in Powys
This restaurant is the only eatery in Wales to achieve two Michelin stars. Its modern and simplistic dining room area provides an impeccable backdrop to the dishes that are served from the open kitchen.
16. The Fanny Talbot, Barmouth
The Fanny Talbot in Barmouth, Gwynedd
(Image: Daily Post/Harri Evans )
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The Fanny Talbot on Barmouth high street in Gwynedd was opened as a gastro pub on the site of the old Lion Hotel in July 2023. Since then, the establishment has been garnering praise far and wide, offering "informal fine dining" with MasterChef finalist Owen Vaughan at the helm.
The bar area is an inviting spot, decorated with blue tiles, while the dining area showcases beautiful stained glass windows.
17. Dylan's, Llandudno
Dylan's in Llandudno, Conwy
(Image: Dylan's Restaurant )
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On the front near Llandudno's promenade, Dylan's restaurant is situated in the old Washington Hotel. The former hotel has a distinctive dome above its corner entrance.
During the 20th century, it became a nightclub but closed in 2012. Five years later, Dylan's decided to open their third branch in Llandudno.
Inside the restaurant, you'll find a huge low-relief map, which nearly covers one wall upstairs. This was sculpted by Jane Evans and is based on the work of Thomas Condor in 1784 titled 'New and Correct Map of North Wales'.
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18. Blas Restaurant at Twr y Felin Hotel, St David's
Blas Restaurant at Twr y Felin Hotel, St David's in Pembrokeshire
Twr y Felin Hotel in St David's is Wales' first art hotel. There are numerous commissioned paintings and sculptures, with some showcased at its AA three rosette restaurant, Blas.
Impressively, there are over 150 original artworks here, with work by Remi Rough, Mr Jago, Phil Ashcroft and more.
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