Angel Inn and Capel Bach Bistro, The

A wonderful Welsh medley of a hotel, former chapel and bags of atmosphere of that uniquely Welsh variety; all combining to make this one of the best of its kind in Carmarthenshire, even though the competition is not that extensive. The place is constantly buzzing, locals and tourists mingling merrily, and the food is notable.

Bar meals, lunches and tasty bites are generally available throughout the day; dinner is served in the Bistro from 6.30 to 9.30 pm. Starters range from marinated olives for those who require only a titillation of the taste-buds to lemon and garlic pan fried King prawns for those seeking a more sturdy foundation.

Main courses are supplied from a list of staple favourites such as chicken breast wrapped in bacon and the local Llanboidy cheese with a mild Dijon mustard cream, or a chargrilled ham steak with a rich cranberry, orange and port gravy. Speciality dishes range from topside of Welsh lamb filled with forcemeat and apricots in a white wine and shallot sauce, to a panfried tuna steak with a seafood medley in a lime zest butter, well supported by fish dishes at the whim of the markets.

Puddings represent a medley of indulgence and should definitely be taken into account during the earlier courses. A white chocolate croissant butter pudding with custard (not of the variety wished upon you at school) sets the tone. The French apple tart on sticky toffee sauce makes few concessions, but for sheer refreshment head for the brandy snap basket filled with lemon mousse and raspberries.

A nifty wine list copes well with the opportunities presented by the menu; service is friendly without being over-attentive.