In the world of gourmet dining, Aberystwyth, a picturesque Georgian seaside town on Wales’s rugged west coast, is fast becoming a sensation. Ever since SY23, a local culinary gem, earned its first Michelin star and clinched the prestigious ‘Opening of the Year award’ in 2022, food enthusiasts from all corners of the UK have had their gaze firmly fixed on this charming town. What’s causing all the commotion? It’s Aberystwyth’s burgeoning food scene, where innovative chefs are taking locally sourced Welsh ingredients to dizzying heights.
At the forefront of this gastronomic renaissance is SY23, a restaurant that demands reservations months in advance. Here, the talented Chef Nathan Davies, a familiar face from Great British Menu, orchestrates culinary magic. Before indulging in the 10-course culinary symphony, you can savor drinks by the fire pit on the terrace, setting the stage for an unforgettable meal. SY23’s menu is a vibrant ode to the seasons, featuring dishes that, while seemingly straightforward, burst with flavor. Imagine the delicate simplicity of scallops with seaweed and burnt butter or the succulent lamb with shallot and black garlic.
Venturing further into Aberystwyth’s culinary landscape reveals even more hidden treasures. Ultracomida, a sunny Spanish deli, beckons with its exceptional tapas, wine, and vermouth. Wandering the town’s charming backstreets might lead you to Jonah’s, a fishmonger serving up daily delights, from king prawn curry to lobster and chips.
For those willing to embark on a scenic half-hour drive north of town, Ynyshir awaits. This two-Michelin-starred establishment, under the culinary wizardry of Gareth Ward, is a pilgrimage for meat lovers. The dining experience here is an epic journey through a multitude of courses, with a single menu that remains a tantalizing secret until you arrive. Dietary restrictions? Not here. Prepare to be astounded by dishes like aged otoro tuna with teriyaki and Welsh Wagyu fudge.
So, what’s the secret behind Aberystwyth’s culinary rise? We sat down with Chef Nathan Davies to get some insights. According to him, the town’s culinary magic lies in the abundance of top-quality, locally sourced ingredients. Aberystwyth boasts an array of lovingly farmed produce, allowing chefs to craft dishes that truly capture the essence of the region. From grains grown just a few miles away to succulent local lamb and the freshest shellfish and fish from Aberystwyth’s fishing boats, the town’s larder is a treasure trove of flavors. And let’s not forget birch syrup, a unique ingredient tapped from nearby forests, offering a rich, redcurrant-like flavor that pairs exquisitely with dishes like chicken liver mousse.
Chef Davies also enjoys the camaraderie of dining, serving guests a special dish that unites them in the shared experience of food. It could be a whole grilled turbot cooked Basque-style, lamb on the bone, or a cheese course cooked over an open flame – a truly communal and unforgettable dining experience.
So, whether you’re a foodie on the hunt for the next culinary sensation or simply seeking a delightful gastronomic adventure, Aberystwyth is undoubtedly a destination worth exploring. With its innovative chefs, dedication to local produce, and an ever-evolving food scene, this charming town on the west coast of Wales has earned its place on the UK’s gourmet map. Don’t miss your chance to savor the flavors of Aberystwyth; it’s a culinary journey you won’t soon forget.