Caradog's - Aberdare

A somewhat disappointing second experience. We came a few years ago and had a great meal and experience, though now I agree with reviews that it appears to have gone downhill. Food wasn’t too bad we had a Beef Curry and Festive meal. The festive meal was good, but the beef curry was awful all three of us agreed. Restaurant was empty just 2 days before Christmas (just 3 tables including ours occupied) and was playing club music? Throughout the restaurant while decorated really well, was grubby. Seats were stained, walls had marks over them including in the bathroom which had brown handprints and over the door and wall.

Possibly the worst eating out experience I’ve had. Booked online on Wednesday for Fathers Day breakfast today at 9am. Arrived at 9.04 with hubby and two small children. Waited for table, no greeting from staff. When someone finally came to us they ticked us off the table list and cleared a table for us. I asked for a highchair (which was on my booking) only to be told “they’re over there” by staff. We sat down and waited ten mins for someone to come and give us a menu or acknowledge us. We called a staff member over who said “sorry I’m reception I don’t know, but I’ll find out”. She disappeared and a few mins later someone else came over. I asked for a menu and was asked who we booked with as she apparently didn’t know about the booking. I showed her my booking and she disappeared. Another lady came over a few mins later and said they could offer us a breakfast but we’d have to wait as all the hotel residents take priority and they can’t serve us until they are all finished. No offer of even a coffee while we wait. It’s 9.30, kids are hungry. We left. Great start to Fathers Day.. we won’t be back.

Overnight stay with dinner and breakfast. Both had the barbecue chicken it was delicious. Covid somehow caused the breakfast to be served in a takeaway bag, sausage bacon roll , juice pastries. Very nice but felt a bit strange.

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.