Gareth Ward takes stake in Ynyshir Restaurant and Rooms
Gareth Ward has become chef patron of Ynyshir Restaurant and Rooms near Machynlleth, Powys, Wales, after taking a stake in the business.
Ward took a share together with his partner Amelia Eiriksson, general manager of the restaurant.
Previously known as Ynyshir Hall, and operated as a hotel with a fine-dining restaurant, the property was relaunched as a restaurant with rooms in the autumn of 2016. Ward and Eiriksson, a trained architect, are now overseeing plans for refurbishment of the property. The first phase of the development will include a new-look dining room.
Ynyshir is owned by John and Jenny Talbot, with whom Ward and Eiriksson are now business partners. John said: "Gareth is a hugely talented chef and is the driving force for the business. He and Amelia have a very clear vision for where they want to take Ynyshir, I have every belief in them and I'm delighted to welcome them on board as partners."
Ward arrived at Ynyshir in 2013 and gained a Michelin star in his first full year, as well as being awarded the Good Food Guide 2015 ‘Chef to Watch' editor's award. Ynyshir is also the only establishment in Wales to hold four AA rosettes, the AA Guide has awarded a five-star rating for the rooms.
Ward added: "By entering into this partnership with John and Jenny I hope to show that Ynyshir isn't just a job, it's a way of life for me and Amelia. We want to take this restaurant to the next level, and I'm confident that with John's backing, our investment, and the refurbishment plans, we will make 2017 Ynyshir's most successful year yet."
John and Jenny Talbot bought former co-owner Rob Reen's share in the business in May last year after he decided to sell. His wife Joan Reen died in February of the same year.
Joan, a former geography teacher, and Rob, who previously taught art, originally bought the 16th century Ynyshir Hall, set in 14 acres of grounds, in 1989, as they set about a career change. They went on to create one of Wales's most lauded hotels.
Rob Reen sells stake in Ynyshir Hall; while restaurant named after Gareth Ward >>