Is This the Best Restaurant in Wales at Just Three Meters Wide?

Gwen, a petite restaurant located in Machynlleth, Powys, has made waves in the culinary world by being named the best restaurant in Wales according to Harden's guide. Head chef Corrin Harrison, who opened the venue in 2023, aims to create an inviting atmosphere that prioritises quality food without the pretentiousness often associated with fine dining. Despite its small size, Gwen has garnered enthusiasm from diners, fostering connections among guests, and establishing its unique identity in the competitive culinary landscape.

Last updated: 29 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

Gwen has quickly risen to prominence in the culinary scene in Wales, with its recent accolade affirming its quality and unique approach to dining. The restaurant, which can host only eight diners at a time, has become a hub for food enthusiasts looking for an intimate and relaxed atmosphere. Its head chef, Corrin Harrison, has embraced a philosophy of open hospitality, encouraging guests to interact and connect over a shared love of innovative cuisine. This approach has helped Gwen carve out a distinct identity separate from its Michelin-starred sister restaurant, Ynyshir.

Key takeaways

Gwen is a small restaurant in Machynlleth, awarded best restaurant in Wales by Harden's guide.
Head chef Corrin Harrison prioritises a welcoming atmosphere over fine dining pretentiousness.
Guests often connect and form friendships during their dining experience.

Timeline: how we got here

Gwen's journey started in 2017 when Corrin Harrison moved to Wales from London, driven by a desire to work at Ynyshir, which opened his eyes to the culinary potential in the region. The following years saw him rise to head chef at Ynyshir, where he honed his skills. In 2023, with support from Ynyshir's owner Gareth Ward, Harrison opened Gwen, which has quickly gained recognition, culminating in its recent accolade as the best restaurant in Wales.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

Gwen has recently gained attention after being awarded the title of best restaurant in Wales by Harden's guide, reflecting its rising status in the UK culinary scene. This recognition highlights the restaurant's commitment to quality and innovation in a compact setting.

What was already established

Before Gwen's opening, Harrison had established his reputation at Ynyshir, a two-Michelin-star restaurant known for its high-end dining experience. His transition from Ynyshir to Gwen marks a significant shift in approach, focusing on creating a more casual, accessible dining experience.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

Gwen offers an alternative dining experience that prioritises quality and interaction without the barriers often seen in fine dining. This approach caters to a wider audience, making high-quality food accessible to more people. The communal dining setup fosters a sense of community and shared experience among guests.

Businesses and jobs

The restaurant employs a small team, including two bartenders and two kitchen staff, which contributes to the local economy. Gwen’s success can inspire other small independent restaurants to focus on quality and community engagement, potentially reshaping local dining landscapes.

Policy and regulation

As Gwen continues to gain recognition, it may influence food policy discussions in Wales, particularly in areas related to hospitality standards and support for independent restaurants. The restaurant scene's evolution could prompt local governments to consider additional support for small enterprises.

Numbers that matter

£468: The starting price for a high-end dining experience at Ynyshir, showcasing the contrast with Gwen's more accessible offerings.
8: The maximum number of diners at Gwen, underscoring its intimate atmosphere.
30: The number of courses in Ynyshir's tasting menu, highlighting the difference in dining philosophy between the two venues.

Definitions and jargon buster

Michelin star: A prestigious rating awarded to restaurants for exceptional quality in cuisine and service.
Communal dining: A dining arrangement where guests share tables, fostering a social atmosphere.
Tasting menu: A multi-course meal that allows diners to sample a variety of dishes, showcasing the chef's culinary skills.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

Gwen will likely continue to attract local and regional diners eager to experience its unique approach. Observing customer feedback and adapting the menu or service style could enhance the dining experience further.

Medium term (1–6 months)

As word spreads about Gwen’s success, the restaurant may begin to see increased bookings. Harrison may consider expanding the menu or introducing special events to capitalise on this growing interest.

Signals to watch

Customer reviews and feedback on platforms like TripAdvisor and Google.
Engagement on social media, particularly Instagram, where the culinary community thrives.
Potential collaborations with local suppliers and events that may raise the restaurant's profile.

Practical guidance

Do

Make a reservation in advance, as the limited seating can fill up quickly.
Be open to trying new dishes and engaging with fellow diners at communal tables.

Don’t

Expect a formal dining experience; come prepared for a relaxed atmosphere.
Ignore the opportunity to interact with the chefs and staff, as they are integral to the experience.

Checklist

Check dining availability and book ahead.
Prepare to embrace a communal dining experience.
Be ready to try innovative dishes that may challenge your palate.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While Gwen has successfully created a welcoming environment, the restaurant's small size and communal dining format might not appeal to everyone. Additionally, as the restaurant grows in popularity, maintaining the intimate atmosphere may become challenging. The evolving culinary landscape in Wales may also introduce competition, which could impact Gwen's unique position.

Bottom line

Gwen represents a refreshing take on fine dining in Wales, prioritising community and quality over pretentiousness. As it continues to grow and attract diners, the restaurant may influence how independent eateries approach the dining experience, ultimately reshaping local culinary culture.

FAQs

What type of cuisine does Gwen offer?

Gwen focuses on innovative dishes created by head chef Corrin Harrison, featuring high-quality ingredients and a personal touch on the menu.

Is there a dress code at Gwen?

No, Gwen promotes a relaxed atmosphere without strict dress codes, encouraging guests to feel comfortable during their dining experience.

How can I make a reservation at Gwen?

Reservations can typically be made through the restaurant's website or by contacting them directly, and it's advisable to book in advance due to limited seating.