As the weather turns cold, our thoughts in this office, naturally turn towards food. As we were working our way through some Spartacus paninis this morning we were thinking, what are the best eating places to sit in in Aberystwyth? Now this list isn’t the full list of everywhere to eat in Aberystwyth, because let’s face it, we are pretty spoilt with choice in this fabulous town. From pub grub to Italians, Indians to Tapas bars – there really isn’t much you can’t get in town.

We managed to think of our top ten places that we’d recommend (whilst also wondering where we can have lunch today).

So in no particular order:

The Glengower

Ah the Glen – an old haunt for us alumni who’ve never left Aberystwyth! It’s recently had a huge refurb and turned into what we coin as a “foodie place” rather than a beer hole. You’ll be hard pushed to find a table in this seafront pub at 7pm, but they do serve food from midday until 9pm daily – and what a great menu. Be sure to check out their RNLI special, with a portion of the proceeds going straight to the RNLI with every order made. What do we like most about this pub? The warm atmosphere, great food & drink – plus it’s pooch friendly AND they have outside seating for those glorious Aber sunsets.

Medina’s

Three words: nom nom nom. Medina’s on Market Street offer gorgeous, fresh, home cooked, med-style food. If you like good wine, this is also a great place to go. Friendly and warm atmosphere for a relaxed evening, they also sell some great food products in the hallway and have a book store in one of the rooms too!

The Fountain Inn

Just on the other side of Trefechan Bridge is the Fountain Inn – we’ve not yet been here for ordinary food, but my oh my is their Sunday Lunch amazing! Very reasonable prices too (3 courses for £15.50, if you can manage them) – the main and puddings are just gorgeous. A very friendly pub but you must book in advance for a table here, they fill up every week.

Gwesty Cymru

5* restaurant on the seafront – with great views when you sit outside, what could be better for a spot of fancy lunch or dinner? We absolutely love Gwesty Cymru – the service is fantastic, the food is exceptional. Some would argue that perhaps it’s too expensive, but realistically, for the quality of food and service you get, we really don’t think that it is.

Fusion King

A firm student favourite – have you ever seen this place empty?! They are only closed one day a week (and what a sad day that is) and open from 12pm to 11pm – wraps, boxes and so many more options available. You can sit it or take out and the food is delish. My favourite? Box meal (half and half … we are in Wales after all) with Beef Rendang and Honey Glazed Chicken. Yum.

The Grail

We’re lucky enough to be just around the corner from this quirky new eatery on Princess St, they even have a secret garden! Yep, you heard right! Red does her magic with the food and cakes, and it’s all served in cups/mugs too. A friendly and welcoming atmosphere all the time, we’d highly recommend a trip here!

Agnelli’s

Located on Bridge St, Agnelli’s is a traditional tapas (they also do take outs) with some gorgeous coffee and cocktails on offer. It’s always pretty busy, so be sure to book. There is a downstairs dining room too, or you can bag a table in the window (for those who like to people watch, this is perfect). The staff are always uber-friendly and welcoming.

Yr Hen Llew Du

On Bridge Street, Yr Hen Llew Du do what we’d term as proper traditional food – the menu is quite large but the food is “proper homemade”. Burgers, curries, steaks, childrens menu too. My favourite? The chicken curry half and half with homemade “proper” chips and any of the homemade puddings!

Not only is the food great, but they also have special offers on every night of the week – Tuesdays you get a free homemade dessert (jam sponge with coconut shreds anyone?), Wednesdays is Lottery night – buy and eat your food then spin the bingo ball for your special reward. This will be either your money back, 2 for 1 voucher, drink voucher, lollipop or free pud!

The Carlton

High above Great Darkgate Street is the Carlton – there are some serious cakes in here that you simply have to try. The main meals are all home made and offer a great selection from traditional mains, specials, toasties, paninis and more. Open early too so breakfast is a good option here. Either way, you have to end with an amazing cake.

Caesars

One of our favourite breakfast cafes, Caesars is always busy and along with their friendly smile offer a gorgeous, grease free breakfast. Build your own is my advice (so you can avoid tomatoes…) and enjoy a proper mug of tea too. In the summer, they have a pretty large garden to the back with more seating as well!