Hidden away in the tiny hamlet of Llanddarog near the National Botanical Garden of Wales, the Butchers Arms is well known for the quality of its food, attracting visitors from the Swansea area on a regular basis. It's an old pub and very small with tables tucked into nooks and crannies. Flowers decorate the pub inside and out. Locally brewed Felinfoel is on tap. Delicious steaks, stews, pasta and seafood dishes are freshly cooked and served in very generous portions with plenty of vegetables.
Recommended by the Campaign for Real Ale, the Mansel Arms serves award-winning Tomos Watkins cask ales. It's a very pleasant place to take a break after wandering around the nearby market. There are usually special offers, a pint of Watkins Warrior at £1.50, for example. It's stylishly designed with semi-exposed stone walls and framed old documents – lading bills, wreck sales and the like. One wall is covered with amusing portraits of the pubs' regulars – a diverse crew. There's a small space out the back to enjoy any sun.
The moment you step into this restaurant you know you're in for a treat. It's cool and simply decorated, with stripped wood floors and shutters, plants, mirrors and green and white covered tables, each with a vase of flowers. Didier and Stephanie are both French and import many of their ingredients from France, including the sugar and flour. For lunch you could have a tomato mousse with basil or a red onion tart with courgettes and goats cheese, followed by a perfectly prepared piece of salmon or free-range chicken. The dinner main courses revolve around fish and meat cooked in authentic French style and exquisitely presented. Dreamy desserts like orange creme brûlée follow.
This village pub has two bars, and a very large restaurant that seats a hundred people. What gives it its appeal is the characterful decor, in keeping with the beamed ceilings and the interesting artifacts and paintings.All ages of children are welcome here, with a play area and a special children's menu. The popular bar food has a good variety of choice, including local trout and vegetarian dishes. Check in times for the rooms are flexible. There's also an option of hosting Weddings and Functions, with a capacity of around 90 guests. Business conference facility is also available.