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If you’re looking for a destination that offers stunning landscapes, rich history, and incredible local cuisine, Pembrokeshire should be at the top of your list. Located in Wales, this coastal county is not only known for its natural beauty but also for its growing reputation as a food lover’s paradise.
From hearty traditional Welsh dishes to innovative dining experiences, Pembrokeshire has something to satisfy every palate.
In this article, we’ll dive deep into the local food and drink experiences you simply cannot miss when visiting Pembrokeshire. Whether you’re a fan of fresh seafood, craft beers, or ethical dining, this guide will help you explore the best of Pembrokeshire’s culinary scene.
Discovering Pembrokeshire’s Local Cuisine
One of the key reasons Pembrokeshire is such a fantastic destination for food lovers is its commitment to fresh, local ingredients. The region is blessed with fertile farmland, a long coastline, and a thriving community of farmers, fishermen, and artisans who produce high-quality food.
Farm-to-Table Culture:
Pembrokeshire’s farm-to-table culture is at the heart of its food scene. Local restaurants and cafes take pride in sourcing ingredients directly from nearby farms and fisheries. The focus on local and seasonal produce means the menu often changes to reflect what’s fresh at the time, giving you a unique experience with each visit.
Traditional Welsh Dishes with a Pembrokeshire Twist
Pembrokeshire offers its own take on classic Welsh dishes. Here are a few you should try:
- Cawl: A traditional Welsh stew made with lamb or beef, leeks, potatoes, and carrots. In Pembrokeshire, cawl is often made using locally reared meats and fresh vegetables from the area, making it extra flavorful.
- Welsh Cakes: These are a staple of Welsh cuisine, and Pembrokeshire adds its own flair by offering variations made with local butter and honey.
- Bara Brith: A traditional Welsh tea bread speckled with dried fruits. Some Pembrokeshire bakeries use local honey or cider in their recipes for a unique twist.
Seasonal Food Festivals and Markets
Pembrokeshire is home to several food festivals and markets throughout the year, where you can sample a wide variety of local produce. For example, the Narberth Food Festival is a must-visit, with stalls offering everything from homemade chutneys to locally caught seafood. Seasonal markets pop up in towns like Haverfordwest, showcasing local meats, cheeses, and freshly baked bread.
If you’re a foodie, plan your visit around one of these festivals to experience Pembrokeshire’s food scene in full bloom.
Top Restaurants and Pubs for Authentic Pembrokeshire Meals
Pembrokeshire is filled with fantastic dining spots that serve authentic Welsh dishes with a modern twist. Here are some of the top places to check out:
1. The Shed Fish & Chip Bistro
Located in the charming village of Porthgain, The Shed is renowned for its fresh seafood. The fish is caught locally, and the chips are made from Pembrokeshire potatoes, making this a quintessential Pembrokeshire meal. If you’re looking for something beyond the classic fish and chips, try their seafood chowder, which is packed with fresh mussels, prawns, and white fish.
2. Cafe Mor
Cafe Mor is an award-winning food truck located on Freshwater West Beach. Specializing in seafood, they serve up dishes like lobster rolls, crab sandwiches, and seaweed butter burgers. Cafe Mor focuses on sustainable sourcing, making it a great place to enjoy Pembrokeshire’s ocean bounty while being eco-conscious.
3. The Grove of Narberth
If you’re looking for a fine dining experience, The Grove of Narberth offers one of the best in the region. This luxury hotel’s restaurant has won multiple awards for its use of local and seasonal ingredients. Their menu changes regularly, but you can expect dishes like local lamb with wild garlic or line-caught fish served with seasonal vegetables.
4. Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Pembrokeshire isn’t just for meat-eaters. Many restaurants, like Blas at Fronlas in Newport, offer excellent vegetarian and vegan options using local produce. Expect fresh, hearty salads, vegetable stews, and plant-based versions of traditional Welsh dishes.
Must-Try Local Food Experiences
Pembrokeshire offers more than just meals in restaurants—you can have hands-on experiences that will deepen your connection with the local food culture.
1. Farm Visits and Workshops
For a truly immersive experience, consider visiting a local farm. Some farms, like Pant Mawr Farmhouse Cheese, offer cheese-making workshops where you can learn how to make cheese from scratch using local milk. These hands-on experiences are perfect for food lovers who want to take home more than just memories.
2. Coastal Foraging Tours
Pembrokeshire’s coastline is rich with edible treasures, from seaweed to shellfish. You can join a foraging tour with a local guide to learn how to safely gather these coastal ingredients. Many tours also include cooking demonstrations where you’ll learn how to prepare your foraged finds in delicious, sustainable meals.
3. Food Tours
Pembrokeshire food tours are an excellent way to discover hidden culinary gems. Local guides take you to lesser-known eateries, farmers’ markets, and food producers that you might otherwise miss. A food tour is a perfect way to taste the best of Pembrokeshire while learning about the history and culture of the area.
Indulging in Pembrokeshire’s Drink Scene
No food journey is complete without exploring the local drink scene, and Pembrokeshire is no exception. From craft beers to artisanal ciders, there’s plenty to sip and savor.
1. Local Craft Beers
Pembrokeshire is home to several microbreweries, offering a wide variety of craft beers made from local ingredients. Bluestone Brewing Company, for example, produces a range of organic, eco-friendly beers that are inspired by the natural surroundings of the Preseli Hills. Be sure to try their signature ale, Rockhopper, which is brewed using local spring water.
2. Welsh Ciders and Wines
For cider lovers, a visit to Gethin’s Cyder is a must. Made from locally grown apples, their cider has a crisp, refreshing taste that pairs well with Pembrokeshire’s fresh seafood.
If you prefer wine, head to Cwm Deri Vineyard. This family-run vineyard produces a variety of Welsh wines, including a popular red made from locally grown grapes. You can take a tour of the vineyard, learn about the winemaking process, and, of course, sample the wines.
3. Welsh Gin
Welsh gin is also gaining popularity, and Pembrokeshire is home to some excellent distilleries. In the Welsh Wind Distillery offers tours where you can learn how their gin is made using local botanicals. You can even create your own custom bottle of gin as a unique souvenir.
Pembrokeshire Farmers’ Markets: A Fresh Taste of Wales
If you want to take some of Pembrokeshire’s flavors home with you, visiting a local farmers’ market is a great way to do it. These markets showcase the best local produce, from freshly baked bread to artisanal cheeses.
Haverfordwest Farmers’ Market
The Haverfordwest Farmers’ Market is one of the most popular in the region. Held every Friday, it’s the perfect place to pick up local meats, cheeses, and fresh vegetables. You can also find unique Welsh treats like bara brith and locally-made preserves.
At the market, you’ll have the chance to chat with local farmers and artisans, giving you insight into the passion and craftsmanship that goes into their products.
Buying Local Produce
Be sure to pick up some Pembrokeshire cheese while you’re at the market. Varieties like Pant Mawr’s mature cheddar and Teifi Cheese are perfect for a picnic or a cheeseboard back home. You’ll also find locally produced honey, fresh herbs, and homemade bread—ideal for creating your own Pembrokeshire-inspired meals.
Sustainable and Ethical Food Choices in Pembrokeshire
Pembrokeshire is leading the way when it comes to sustainable and ethical dining. Many local businesses are committed to reducing their environmental impact by sourcing ingredients locally, using eco-friendly packaging, and promoting sustainable fishing and farming practices.
Ethical Dining
Restaurants like The Bug Farm in St Davids are at the forefront of sustainable dining. This innovative restaurant promotes the use of insects as a source of protein, offering a unique (and surprisingly delicious) way to enjoy sustainable food. Even if you’re not ready to try bug-based dishes, the Bug Farm’s focus on sustainable farming practices is worth learning about.
Conclusion
Pembrokeshire’s food and drink scene is a true reflection of the region’s natural beauty, community spirit, and commitment to sustainability. From traditional Welsh dishes to modern culinary experiences, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Whether you’re foraging along the coastline, sampling fresh seafood, or sipping local craft beers, Pembrokeshire offers a food adventure you’ll never forget.
So why not start planning your Pembrokeshire food journey today? With so much to offer, you’re sure to find something that tantalizes your taste buds and leaves you hungry for more.
