Newtown's renowned eatery, Waggon and Horses, has been crowned Restaurant of the Year Mid Wales at the prestigious Food Awards Wales 2023.

The restaurant, owned and operated by Jackie and Neil Roberts since March 1995, has consistently delighted diners with its exceptional culinary offerings.

Neil Roberts, the co-owner and chef at Waggon and Horses, previously achieved recognition as Wales' best chef in 2008 when he outshone competitors from hotels and restaurants across the country. Now, nearly 15 years later, the restaurant has once again been acknowledged for its outstanding contributions to the Welsh food industry.

The Food Awards Wales 2023, which took place on Monday, June 26th, at The Mercure Cardiff Holland House Hotel, honored and celebrated the tireless efforts and talent within the Welsh food industry. The event recognized outstanding establishments in categories such as Restaurant of the Year, Gastro Pub of the Year, Chef of the Year, and Best Street Food, among others.

One of the distinctive features of these awards is that the winners were determined through public votes. The general public had the opportunity to nominate their favorite food establishments, allowing them to have a say in recognizing the finest dining experiences across Wales. This inclusive approach ensured that the winners truly represented the preferences of local communities.

The Food Awards Wales 2023 aimed to showcase and honor excellence in various categories while highlighting the diverse and high-quality food industry that Wales has to offer. It sought to promote the country's culinary scene and commend establishments that have consistently delivered exceptional dining experiences.

A Spokesperson for The Food Awards Wales 2023 said:

“We received an overwhelming response from the public, who nominated some fantastic establishments across the region.

“These awards are a testament to the passion and dedication of the country’s food industry, and the hard work of those who provide exceptional culinary experiences to their customers. The winners should be proud of their achievement, as they represent the very best of the Welsh food scene, and are a true reflection of the quality and diversity of the industry.

“Congratulations to all of the winners and finalists, who have demonstrated excellence in their respective categories.”