Eating, drinking and dancing
We've picked out some of our favourite Welsh cafés, bars, gastropubs and restaurants. See more listings in the individual guides for Brecon Beacons, Cardigan Bay, Carmarthen Bay and Vale of Glamorgan.
Restaurants
The Wynnstay Arms
This pub on Maengwyn Street in Machynlleth has country-comfortable dining rooms and a seriously talented chef organising the menu.
(+44 (0)1654 702941)
The Black Lion
Located on Lion Street in Hay-on-Wye, this pub has a traditional atmosphere and a dedicated approach to its craft, priding itself on good British produce and its own ales.
(+44 (0)1497 820841)
The Griffin
A gastro pioneer in these parts, this pub at Felin Fach, near Brecon is a pink-walled landmark with an impeccable reputation for its very, very good lunches and suppers.
(+44 (0)1874 620111)
The Drawing Room
Set in Cwmbach, Newbridge-on-Wye, near Builth Wells, this elegant and modish restaurant with rooms, for a lunch that you'll talk about for the rest of the day.
(+44 (0)1982 552493)
Penhelig Arms
The fish is fresh and the wine are well-chosen at this bar and restaurant on Terrace Road, Aberdovey, where the restaurant is starchyish, and the bar more cramped – in a very fun way.
(+44 (0)1654 767215)
The Harbourmaster
For something contemporary head to Harbour Lane, Aberaeron for a stylish bar and restaurant serving excellent modern Welsh cuisine alongside delicious tapas.
(+44 (0)1545 570755)
Bars and clubs
The Bell at Skenfrith
This wonderful pub has award-winning, locally sourced menus.
(+44 (0)1600 750235)
The Bull’s Head
This place at Craswall, near Hay-on-Wye is a proper old pub with local beers and ciders, and an expert chef turning out homemade pies.
(+44 (0)1981 510616)
Nantyffin Cider Mill Inn
This place on Brecon Road, near Crickhowell is a popular old inn serving good trad food.
(+44 (0)1873 810212)
Red Lion
This local in Llanfan Fawr, near Llandrinod Wells is a 12th-century pub serving real ales.
(+44 (0)1597 860204)
The Drovers Rest
Standing by a bridge over the river in Llanwrtyd Wells, this is a great place to try bara brith with Caerphilly cheese or a delicious rarebit.
(+44 (0)1591 610264)