‘Specialised preparation and handling practices’ led to Ynyshir one-star hygiene rating

Representatives from the two-Michelin-starred Ynyshir Restaurant & Rooms in Powys, Wales, have said that handling practices that “differ from conventional kitchen operations” contributed to a one-star hygiene rating from the Food Standards Agency.

A spokesperson for the restaurant confirmed the team are working “closely and cooperatively” with environmental health officers and that it has requested an “early reinspection” in line with Ceredigion County Council’s guidance.

It comes after Ynyshir received a one-star food hygiene rating from the council on 5 November 2025.

While the restaurant achieved ‘generally satisfactory’ in hygienic food handling, the officers gave ‘improvement necessary’ for cleanliness and condition of facilities and building, and ‘major improvement necessary’ for the management of food safety.

A spokesperson for Ynyshir said: “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.

“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.”

Chef Gareth Ward was appointed head chef at Ynyshir in 2013, replacing Paul Croasdale, and became chef patron in 2017 after having taken a stake in the business with his partner Amelia Eriksson.

Ynyshir became famed for Ward’s £468, 20-course menu, served to his playlist, with no guest expected to stay more than one night.

Rave reviews were quick to follow, calling Ynyshir a “refined fine dining restaurant in the unlikeliest of locations”.

In 2022, it became Wales’ first two-Michelin-starred restaurant.