Two-star Michelin restaurant's one-star hygiene rating sparks UK debate

Ynyshir, a two-star Michelin restaurant in Wales, received a one-star hygiene rating after inspectors said management of food safety required major improvement; the owner has disputed parts of the report and requested a re-inspection.

Ynyshir, a two‑star Michelin restaurant in Wales, was given a one‑star hygiene rating in a recent inspection, prompting public debate about how safety rules apply to high-end dining. The inspection report said the management of food safety needed "major improvement" and flagged cleanliness and facility condition for attention. Owner Gareth Ward said he was not embarrassed by the score and linked it to inspectors' concerns about the use of raw and aged ingredients. The exchange drew commentary from columnists and a critical response from the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health. Key points: - Ynyshir was rated one star for hygiene after an inspection that reported management of food safety required "major improvement." - The owner disputed aspects of the report, has made at least one change in food-preparation facilities, and has formally requested a re-inspection. - The controversy included commentary defending elite restaurants' practices and a rebuttal from the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health; Welsh law requires the business to display its hygiene certificate. Summary: The rating has prompted public discussion about how food-safety inspections apply to high-end restaurants and about consistency in enforcement. Ynyshir has requested a re-inspection but no date has been set. Undetermined at this time.