A new intimate dining destination from the team behind acclaimed restaurant Ynyshir has opened its doors in Machynlleth.
Named Gwen, the new venture marks the latest chapter for chef Peter Sanchez-Iglesias, offering an exclusive dining experience for just eight guests per service.
Located on Heol Maengwyn in the heart of the town, the restaurant measures just three metres wide and delivers a multi-course tasting menu prepared by a kitchen team of only two people: Sanchez-Iglesias himself and assistant chef Finn Langley, a student at Coleg Ceredigion.
The concept brings together influences from across Sanchez-Iglesias’ career, including his work at award-winning Bristol restaurants Casamia and Paco Tapas, as well as Decimo at The Standard in London. The result is a highly personal dining experience driven by creativity, instinct and exceptional seasonal ingredients.
Guests are guided through two open kitchens as the evening unfolds, creating an immersive experience that evolves throughout the meal. Fire plays a central role in many of the dishes across the approximately 20-course tasting menu.
Signature dishes include Tomato Stracciatella, Hokkaido Scallop Mole Blanco, Carabineros Birria with Hibiscus and Duck Rib Al Pastor Masa.
The interiors have been designed by Ynyshir’s Amelia Eiriksson, who has created a dark and atmospheric setting featuring bespoke pieces produced in collaboration with local artisans. Details range from custom-made cutlery and crockery to hand-forged ironmongery crafted by Ynyshir’s in-house blacksmith, Lee Jones.
Eiriksson also leads the drinks programme, while front-of-house operations are overseen by Sam Clarke. Developed in collaboration with Ynyshir, the wine list focuses on craft producers and low-intervention winemaking, with all wines available by both the glass and bottle.
Gwen is open from Wednesday to Saturday, with dinner service beginning at 6pm and lasting approximately three and a half hours.
Guests can also book a two-night package through the Ynyshir website, combining dinner at both Gwen and Ynyshir on consecutive evenings.
The tasting menu is priced at £180 plus VAT.
Gwen is located at 21 Heol Maengwyn, Machynlleth, SY20 8EB.
