The full details behind Wales’ best restaurant’s damning food hygiene rating have been revealed. Ynyshir Restaurant and Rooms, near Machynlleth, which made history in 2022 as the first Welsh restaurant to earn two Michelin stars, was given a food hygiene rating of one out of five after an inspection on November 5, 2025. The rating indicates 'major improvement necessary' in management of food safety and 'improvement necessary' in cleanliness and condition of facilities.
According to a Freedom of Information request, environmental health officers faced 'obstruction' during the inspection. The report states that officers were not provided with a menu in a timely manner, and were initially given misinformation about the cooking of burgers, being told they were thoroughly cooked before later being told they were less than thoroughly cooked. The report notes: 'Providing mis-information to an officer conducting official controls, is an offence of obstruction.'
Flies were observed in the smithy, posing a risk of transferring bacteria such as E. coli and salmonella. A fly paper strip with an accumulation of dead flies was positioned directly above a food preparation surface. Cross-contamination risks were also identified: ready-to-eat raw minced beef was stored next to uncooked raw meat, and the knife used for shaving beef was described as 'dirty'. Additionally, there was no wash hand basin for food handlers in the smithy.
The report also highlighted 'significant hazards not identified' in relation to raw lobster served, and noted broken equipment and dirty facilities. In response, a spokesman for Ynyshir said the venue took the outcome 'seriously' and had requested a re-inspection. Head chef Gareth Ward insisted the 'place is immaculate' and said he was 'not embarrassed' by the rating.
