5 of the best – Abergavenny
Home to one of the most popular food festivals in the UK and a Michelin-starred restaurant in The Walnut Tree, Abergavenny punches above its weight on Wales’ foodie scene. Here’s Amy Watts with a quick tour.
BEAN & BREAD
An independent coffee shop with a menu based on locally sourced ingredients which caters to vegan and gluten free diets. Bean & Bread is beautifully decorated, warm and inviting, and their speciality coffee, roasted in Wales, is to die for. Try one of their gourmet toasts, plant-based smoothies or their wildly popular cronuts.
Lion Street, Abergavenny
07947 215806 / www.beanandbread.co.uk
THE ANGEL HOTEL
Not just a four-star hotel, The Angel also boasts some exceptional food with fresh and local ingredients at the core of their philosophy. Special occasions call for a truly memorable dining experience at the Oak Room, while the Foxhunter Bar is the perfect destination for stylish cocktails and an equally tasty bar menu. Also worth visiting is its sister property, Michelin-starred restaurant The Walnut Tree.
Cross Street, Abergavenny
01873 857121 / www.angelabergavenny.com
HUMMINGBIRD
Just outside of Abergavenny, Hummingbird is a charming coffee and gift shop with breathtaking interiors and a wonderful collection of artisanal products and homeware. The menu is simple, comforting and delicious, with light lunches, home-made cakes and even afternoon tea. You can also find local produce such as Blaenavon Cheeses and Usk River Chutneys in the gift shop.
Llanover Business Centre
01873 881044 / www.hummingbirdcoffeeshop.com
CASA BIANCA
A newly opened local Italian with deliciously hearty food and a fantastic selection of wines and liqueurs. The family-run restaurant has already built a strong base of customers thanks to its delightful service, cosy atmosphere and generous portions – as is the Italian way.
Frogmore Street, Abergavenny
01873 737744 / www.casabianca.co.uk
THE ART SHOP & CHAPEL
Tucked away beneath a 19th century chapel, it would be easy to miss this hidden treasure. The chapel kitchen serves up a seriously unique and creative menu, providing a dining experience in the most casual of settings. All recipes are produced seasonally with real thought and care put behind them, and you can browse through the art shop while waiting for your food to arrive.
Market Street, Abergavenny
01873 736430 / http://artshopandgallery.co.uk