This week, the prestigious Michelin Guide announced thrilling updates about the global dining scene, particularly the restaurants that have been awarded the renowned Michelin stars. It’s an occasion cherished by food lovers and culinary enthusiasts alike, showcasing the best of the best in gastronomic talent.
While the esteemed Michelin Stars and Bib Gourmands are revealed annually at a grand ceremony—this year held in Dublin—inspectors continuously add exceptional dining establishments to the guide every month. This year has seen notable additions, especially from Wales, reflecting the vibrant culinary landscape of the region.
Welsh Newcomers to the Michelin Guide 2026
Several outstanding Welsh restaurants have gained recognition, and here are the newcomers making waves in the latest Michelin Guide:
Nestled within a vibrantly painted former coaching inn, Restaurant FIR offers an intimate dining experience with just four tables. Chef Matt Sampson’s open kitchen allows guests to witness the art of culinary creation, as he carefully crafts and explains each dish, starting with a presentation of the day’s freshest produce. Techniques and flavors are deeply explored in a sublime tasting menu, spotlighting standout dishes like Chalk Stream trout loin paired with a chili-infused langoustine bisque and delicate caviar. Each bite balances sweetness with a touch of salt, showcasing the chef’s mastery.
Allt Yr Afon – Wolfscastle Country Hotel, Wolf’s Castle
Located in the scenic southwest corner of Wales, Allt Yr Afon at the Wolfscastle Country Hotel is renowned not just as a chic wedding venue but also as a culinary gem. With just six tables, this restaurant exhibits seasonal and local influences in its menu. The meticulous attention to detail is clear, particularly in dishes like the beautifully risen pistachio soufflé, complemented by rich chocolate ice cream and tart raspberry purée. The service is attentive and filled with a palpable pride, enhancing the dining experience.
Bryn Williams at Theatr Clwyd, Mold
Perched above the vibrant Theatr Clwyd performing arts centre, Bryn Williams’s restaurant offers a modern British brasserie experience. The first-floor setting, with its floor-to-ceiling windows, reveals breathtaking views of the Clwydian Range mountains, enhancing the dining ambiance. The menu emphasizes Welsh produce, featuring signature items like the chef’s own pedigree Welsh Black beef served in comforting croquettes or a hearty beef, onion, and mushroom pie. The welcoming staff ensures a smooth, delightful service, making every patron feel at home.
Ember at No. 5, Pontcanna, Cardiff
In the heart of one of Cardiff’s trendy suburbs, Ember at No. 5 shines as a welcoming neighborhood restaurant. Its minimalist decor, featuring light-wood furnishings and an inviting white counter, evokes a sense of calm. The menu reflects a straightforward ethos with seasonal British ingredients intertwined with Italian influences. Guests can indulge in daily-made focaccia and a delectable selection of pasta dishes, highlighting fresh ingredients like spaghetti topped with exquisite red mullet.
Named after the Welsh word ‘hiræth,’ which encapsulates a deep sense of pride and longing for one’s homeland, this charming restaurant embodies that spirit through its curated menu. Utilizing regionally foraged ingredients alongside those from their smallholding, Hiræth offers a tasting menu that truly celebrates the essence of local produce. Highlights include an impressive sous-vide skrei cod served with a mussel and wild garlic velouté, demonstrating the team’s commitment to quality and originality.
Discover more about the new additions to the Michelin Guide in Great Britain and Ireland HERE.
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