With just six tables set in a gorgeous Victorian-style dining room, Allt Yr Afon offers intimate fine dining with bold flavours that balance modern and classic techniques. After a recent refurbishment, and with head chef Seb Smith spearheading the kitchen, Allt Yr Afon has positioned itself as a local champion of accessible but exceptional dining at an astoundingly reasonable price point. The experience here revolves around a tasting menu that puts quality ingredients in pride of place.
The Allt yr Afon menu begins with an amuse bouche, before continuing with a choice of starters like squab pigeon with pancetta, Kent mango, chat masala and quinoa; hand-dived king Orkney scallops with beef short rib, cep, silverskin and truffle; and Wye Valley asparagus with brioche, wild garlic, hens yolk, and morrells. Examples of main dishes meanwhile, include delicious lamb cannon and breast with peas, black garlic and asparagus; lobster paired with sea vegetables, pepper, caviar, pigs cheek and bouillabaisse; and gnocchi with truffle, kale, butternut squash, and girolles.
After a pre-dessert, the experience at Allt yr Afon continues with gorgeous seasonal desserts. Think strawberry pavlova with lemon verbena and basil yoghurt sorbet, a Valrhona chocolate number, and a cheese course with several types sourced from French and British artisans. To finish, you'll be served coffee and petit fours, to give you a little time to reflect on the fantastic experience that you've just enjoyed.
From start to finish, Allt yr Afon keeps standards high, from service and atmosphere to the selection of food and wine. The dining room too has received the same treatment. The decor blends warmth and timeless elegance, with high ceilings, candlelit tables, sea green panelling and copper accents. Whether it’s a celebratory birthday meal, business catch up, or a gathering with friends, Allt yr Afon is an opportunity too good to pass up.