Michelin-Starred Restaurant Reverses Low Food Safety Score

Ynyshir Restaurant, a two-Michelin-star establishment in Wales, has successfully improved its food safety standards, moving from a rating of one out of a possible five to a perfect five-star score.

The restaurant, located near Machynlleth, had been flagged by the Food Standards Agency (FSA) in 2025 for requiring "major improvement" in its food safety management, despite its culinary accolades. Inspectors noted issues with cleanliness and facility conditions, including dirty floors and inadequate hand-washing facilities.

Initial Inspection Findings

During the 2025 inspection, the FSA identified that "significant hazards" were not properly managed. This led to an order for the restaurant to cease serving raw lobster. The inspection also found that while hygienic food handling was "generally satisfactory," the overall management of food safety necessitated significant upgrades.

Chef-owner Gareth Ward, who has held two Michelin stars for Ynyshir since 2022, initially expressed that FSA inspectors did not fully understand the restaurant's specialized procedures for handling raw ingredients, particularly sashimi-grade fish sourced from Japan. He argued that the restaurant operated at "the highest standard in the world" and that their adherence to international raw food practices was being questioned due to differing regulatory rules.

Improvement and Reinspection

Following the inspection, Ynyshir undertook measures to address the FSA's concerns. A reinspection conducted in February resulted in the restaurant being awarded a five-star rating. The FSA commented that this outcome demonstrates the effectiveness of the inspection process and the positive results achievable through collaboration between regulatory officers and food businesses.

The updated rating was officially shared with Ynyshir and has been publicly available on the FSA website since March 2026.

Industry and Public Response

The restaurant's initial low score drew attention, with some, like food critic Giles Coren, defending high-end establishments. Coren argued last winter that Michelin-starred restaurants should not be held to the same stringent health and safety rules as conventional eateries, suggesting that guidelines for such unique culinary experiences might need modernization. He described Ward's cooking as being done "with fire" and likened it to "roaring like fireworks."

Fans of Ynyshir have also voiced support, praising the "incredible experience" and exceptional courses offered on its tasting menu. The restaurant is known for its 30-course tasting menu, which averages nearly $675 per person and highlights Japanese-inspired dishes and high-quality produce. Michelin Guide describes Ynyshir as "a truly unique experience" offering a "playful culinary journey."