Michelin Star Restaurant Earns One-Star Hygiene Rating

Ynyshir, a celebrated restaurant in Wales with two Michelin stars, has received a one-star food hygiene rating from the Food Standards Agency, necessitating major improvements. Chef patron Gareth Ward expressed disappointment but not embarrassment, explaining the low score stemmed from inspectors' concerns regarding the restaurant's use of raw and aged ingredients, such as sashimi-grade fish and aged meats.

Ward highlighted that his restaurant adheres to the highest global standards, but their methods, like aging fish in a salt chamber or using ingredients sourced internationally, were questioned due to differing regulatory interpretations. He acknowledged that some procedural paperwork was also incomplete, a factor he attributed to the demanding nature of maintaining perfect documentation. The restaurant has since invested in advanced equipment and requested a reinspection.

Following the inspection on November 5, 2025, independent laboratory tests on the restaurant's fish found no issues. Ynyshir, which was the first eatery in Wales to achieve two Michelin stars, has implemented additional food safety measures, including an extra hand-washing station. The business awaits a date for a reinspection.