MICHELIN STAR RESTAURANT HAILED BY TV CHEF JAMES MARTIN IS HANDED ONE-STAR HYGIENE RATING
Wales' first two-Michelin star restaurant hailed 'the best in the world' by TV chef James Martin has been handed a one-star hygiene rating.
'Major improvement' is required at Ynyshir in Machynlleth after food inspectors voiced concerns over the 'cleanliness and condition' of facilities.
An inspection on November 5 found the hygiene of food handling was 'generally satisfactory' - but the £468-a-head establishment fell short in its 'layout, ventilation, hand washing facilities and pest control'.
A particular concern was also raised over the 'management of food safety'.
The 30-course dinner experience takes up to five hours to enjoy at the hideaway restaurant in the Welsh countryside - and was praised only last week by Saturday Morning presenter James Martin.
The TV host hailed Ynyshir's head chef Gareth Ward, 45, as being one of Britain's best and called the restaurant 'the best place to eat in the world'.
Mr Martin previously told the Route podcast: 'Gareth Ward, the greatest chef in the UK at the moment, the most talked about chef in the UK at the moment, two Michelin stars at the moment.
'The minute that chap deservedly gets three in February you're not going to get in, no chance.'
The 53-year-old added: 'It's my birthday at the end of the month so I'm going to take a little tour up to Gareth Ward, Ynyshir in North Wales, which I think is the best restaurant you'll eat at anywhere, anywhere in the world, it's absolutely spectacular.'
Diners can opt for the 'full experience' at the restaurant and stay the night for an additional £330 for the cheapest room or £714 for the garden room. The stay includes a 'light breakfast' the following morning before check out.
Ynyshir told the Daily Mail it is taking the outcome 'seriously' and explained some of its 'specialised' cooking methods 'differ from conventional kitchen operations'.
A spokesman added: 'Following a recent routine inspection by the local authority, a number of administrative and procedural actions were identified for improvement.
'We take this outcome seriously and have already addressed these points in full.
'We are currently working closely and cooperatively with Environmental Health and have requested an early reinspection in line with the council’s guidance.
'Ynyshir operates with cooking techniques and processes heavily influenced by Japanese ingredients and methodologies.
'This approach involves specialised preparation and handling practices that differ from conventional kitchen operations.
'We operate at the highest professional level and are proud to work with some of the finest suppliers and ingredients from across the globe.
'We remain fully confident in our processes, our team, and the safety of our operation.
'As always, our focus is on delivering an exceptional and safe dining experience for every guest who visits us.'
Ynyshir Restaurant and Rooms became Wales' first ever two-star Michelin restaurant in 2022 after being awarded its first star eight years earlier.
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