Michelin Chef Partners with Football Club

Gareth Ward, the chef behind the two-Michelin-star Ynyshir Restaurant and Rooms, is joining forces with Aberystwyth Town Football Club. This partnership is set to transform the traditional match day offerings for supporters, introducing a range of new dining experiences and hospitality packages throughout the season. The initiative aims to position the football club as a central hub for community engagement, blending culinary excellence with the passion of the sport.

Elevating the Match Day Experience

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Ward, who has also appeared as a guest judge on MasterChef: The Professionals, expressed his enthusiasm for the new venture, stating his belief that football clubs should be integral to their communities. He sees this collaboration as a significant opportunity to unite people through exceptional food and memorable occasions. Amelia Eiriksson, creative director and co-owner of Ynyshir, described the project as an authentic fusion of football, food, and creativity specific to Aberystwyth. Gethin ap Dafydd, the club's commercial director, highlighted the unique nature of the partnership, aiming to establish Park Avenue stadium as a destination for both great football and outstanding cuisine.

Context of Ynyshir Restaurant and Rooms

Ynyshir Restaurant and Rooms, located near Machynlleth, Powys, is a globally recognised establishment known for its high-end tasting menus. In January, Ward addressed the restaurant's one-star food hygiene rating, which was issued following an inspection in November 2025. At the time, he maintained that Ynyshir operated at a world-class standard, experimenting with unique ingredients and techniques. A Freedom of Information request by BBC Wales revealed the inspection report noted issues such as the restaurant being instructed to cease serving raw lobster due to identified hazards and challenges with documentation and specialised procedures, which Ynyshir stated were primarily related to the local environmental health department's understanding.

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Upcoming Events

The collaboration's first public event is scheduled to take place at Park Avenue stadium during Aberystwyth Town Football Club's initial home fixture on August 8th. This event will serve as the debut for Ward's pop-up dining concept within the football club setting.