Caradog's - Aberdare

I had requested a highchair in my booking, but when I asked about it, the staff member simply pointed and said, "They're over there." After we were seated, we waited for ten minutes without anyone coming by to provide menus or even acknowledge our presence. We eventually flagged down a staff member who said, "Sorry, I’m at reception and don’t know, but I’ll find out." She left and a few minutes later, another staff member approached. I inquired about a menu, and she asked who I made the booking with, as she apparently wasn’t aware of our reservation. After I showed her the booking confirmation, she disappeared again. A few minutes later, another lady came by and informed us that while they could offer us breakfast, we would need to wait because hotel residents took priority and they couldn’t serve us until they were finished. To make matters worse, there was no offer of a coffee to help pass the time. By 9:30, the kids were hungry, so we decided to leave. What a disappointing start to Father’s Day—needless to say, we won’t be returning.

I had an overnight stay that included dinner and breakfast. For both meals, I ordered the barbecue chicken, and it was absolutely delicious. Due to COVID, breakfast was served in a takeaway bag, which included a sausage and bacon roll, juice, and pastries. It was really nice, but it felt a bit unusual.

My second visit was somewhat disappointing. A few years ago, we had a fantastic meal and experience, but now I find myself agreeing with reviews that suggest the restaurant has declined. The food was mediocre; we ordered a Beef Curry and a festive meal. While the festive meal was decent, the Beef Curry was terrible, and all three of us felt the same way. Surprisingly, the restaurant was nearly empty just two days before Christmas, with only three tables occupied, including ours. The atmosphere was further ruined by club music playing throughout the space. Despite the nice decorations, the restaurant felt unkempt. The seats were stained, and there were marks on the walls, including in the bathroom, which had unsightly brown handprints on the door and wall.

Popped in for a coffee today but apparently the coffee machine was broken and it would seem that's the only way this hotel can make a coffee. Surprised they have no kettle! Outside areas need a spruce up, tables were left messy, some just knocked together, cigarette ends gathered all in one ashtray. Workmans ladder lying about and an unfinished astro turf area. This place must pay attention to detail!!!

Warm and welcoming. The Ty Newydd hotel where Caradogs restaurant is based does a lot of weddings, and it's certainly a romantic setting. Has outside covered tables as well. Helpful friendly table service.