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Wales

Food

Flame Baster

Chris Roberts, aka Flamebaster, is a support worker and fire chef from Caernarfon in North Wales. The chef joined us for the first episode of 

series with the Taste Cadets – during which he shared his knowledge on sustainable and local food resources.

On the subject of fire, Chris said, "I believe fire is seared in our DNAs. Before gas, electric, microwaves and George Foreman grills we all cooked with fire. I love bringing people together through fire and food, celebrating my local produce inspired by my Patagonian Gaucho forefathers but with loud hip-hop DJs and copious amounts of natural wine."

Living on the banks of the Menai Straits, 10 minutes away from Snowdonia, Chrishas has an in-depth knowledge of where to get the best local produce and the area's natural wonders. In his guide, he shares his favourite restaurants and spots to unwind in around North Wales.

Also check out his top 5 spots to visit in Cardiff 

I love this village just outside Porthmadog. Glorious beaches to walk and I just adore the ‘Bae y Borth Deli’ there - Serving a taste of Nova Scotia with beautiful local seafood. Great wine & beer choices, plus phenomenal Welsh cheese deli counter. You’ll get stunning views sitting on the terrace and just when you think it couldn’t get any better - they are dog friendly as fuck!! 

My spiritual home for over 30 years. My extended family. These guys have influenced a lot on my cooking over the years and I’ve done some fun pop-ups there too. If you think you eat big, ask them for a ‘Chris Special’.

Best chippy in the whole World is in Criccieth. Castle Fish & Chips. Eat at the beach under the castle with a can of Tango.

If you’re in a Neapolitan pizza vibe, then look no further than ‘Jones Pizza Co’. Rich is a master of Napoli pies. His dough is fucking magical. Kissed by a 500*C wood fire. Beautifully leopard crust, crispy, light, chewy with really cool toppings he imports from Italy and usually with a few specials that celebrate local produce on too. He has a pop-up truck that serves around Caernarfon and a restaurant soon to open in Bangor

This is is very very very good. Smallish intimate restaurant in the beautiful Castle walls of Conwy. I highly recommend the taster menu with wine pairings. Chef Nick Rudge worked with Heston Blumenthal for years before returning home and opening his own place last year. Making a big impact with Snowdonia flavours.

When you’re done with North Wales, it is worth the drive down the coast to Gareth Ward at Ynyshir in Machynlleth & my G Nathan Davies of SY23 in Aberystwyth - they will blow your fucking minds.  They have 3 Michelin Stars between them. Flavour wizards. 

Nathan of SY23 is a pyromaniac like myself. He cooks everything over fire. His wood is all local, and he treats the wood not just as fuel, but as an ingredient. He showcases Welsh produce and people like him are putting Welsh food identity on the map.  

The Jackdaw

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