Felin Fach Griffin, Brecon

Went for lunch at Felin Fack Griffin. Entered dining room while my partner bought drinks at the bar. Was accosted by someone who said I should have waited in the bar and she would have lead me through to this room. One table was occupied, out of about eight. The tables and chairs were the worst placed I have ever encountered - squashed up against walls and into corners, and very uncomfortable for my (tall) partner to sit at. Another man who came in, in a party of three, ended up squeezed into a corner where he could barely flex his elbows and was clearly uncomfortable. Unnecessary as the room was nearly empty! My partner's sausage and mash was tasty but expensive. My soup (no bread with it) tasted tinny and exactly as if made by Mr. Heinz.

Very good atmosphere - excellent food and breakfast with the aga was great.

The staff were very professional and nice to have 2 french waiters who were very good.

We'd certainly go back! Most relaxing.

I often try and call at the Felin Fach Griffin in Brecon when I'm on business, and I time my journey accordingly - so I can only really comment on lunch experiences. I know they grow their potatoes, tomatoes, garlic, onions, salad stuff, and source their meat locally too.

On arrival at its gravel car park, you just know you're in for a treat. The heavy wooden door leads to an airy and light dining area with mis-matched antique wooden tables and chairs. The bar area is my favourite bit though, and I can admit to enjoying a pint of real ale in front of the fire with a newspaper. You almost don't want to get up and eat!

Dishes are seasonal and freshly produced, so there will be a slight wait, and the menu changes regularly, which is something else I love about the place. I hate visiting a pub or restaurant following a long absence to find that the menu has remained exactly the same!

I recently only had time for a quick snack, and I enjoyed their cawl, which I almost just described as "home made" - but of course it is - all of their food is home made!!

The cawl, which is a clear broth of lamb, leeks, swede and potatoes, was delicious, and came with a hunk of soda bread and some good local cheddar cheese. It was priced appropriately - I think around £5 - £6, and was delicious and filling, and plenty for a working lunch. Washed down with a half a pint of real ale, I left more than content, but wishing I lived closer.

Somewhere like this is never going to be cheap, and nor should it be, but it's a real treat. Staff are always helpful, and I look forward to my next venture through Mid Wales!