Gorse

As a small boy from Llanishen, it felt very nostalgic walking the streets of Cardiff again. What filled me with joy though, was experiencing this little gem of a restaurant, tucked away as it is. The welcome was as warm as they get. The door adjacent to the quaint kitchen ensures you are greeted by not only the hosts, but the chefs too! A humble little room, perfectly lit and tastefully decorated. The restaurant is a labour of love from Tom and the team, and it is apparent. Service is immaculate, only pipped by L’enclume in my opinion. The staff were on par with the best of the Michelins we’ve experienced. Friendly, attentive and genuine. They were a delight. The food?! My goodness, what a treat. This is the first Michelin I’ve been to where EVERY SINGLE COURSE was exceptional. The Fallow deer? Perfection. The best piece of meat I’ve ever tasted. If I have just one critique of an otherwise perfect meal, both desserts are rich, creamy with a little tarte fruit. Just a little crunch to either of the desserts would allow better distinction between the two. Maybe a stem ginger or a biscuit. Albeit, I’m not a big dessert guy, but the smoked cherry? Chefs kiss. It is by far, the BEST dessert I’ve ever tasted. Including Moor Hall. Including L’enclume. THE BEST. the day before we visited another Michelin that shall remain anonymous (because it wasn’t the best experience) , but we had just the two courses and the cheese board. And the cost of the meal was equal to the absolute experience that Gorse put on. For the quality of service and food, this was fantastic value. Kudos. Tom and the team have built an absolutely delightful experience here in Cardiff. And I couldn’t be more proud to have such a great experience just a stones throw from where I was born.