Paternoster Farm: A Farm-to-Table Culinary Retreat in Pembrokeshire

A Unique Farmstead Dining Experience

Paternoster Farm is set deep in the Pembrokeshire countryside, off the beaten track on the B4320 near Hundleton and Pembroke. This restaurant operates from a converted milking parlour on a working farm, where guests dine in the old cattle stalls under clumps of pampas grass hanging from the rafters. The open kitchen at one end of the room offers a window into the creative culinary process, where chef Michelle Evans crafts a seasonal set menu that changes daily based on the freshest ingredients available from the farm and local suppliers.

Farm-to-Table Philosophy and Menu Highlights

The ethos of Paternoster Farm centers on a 'field to fork' approach, emphasizing sustainability and freshness. The menu features inventive dishes such as asparagus with crab, pickled chili, lemon, and dill; baked whole bream with romesco; and golden-crusted mutton, leek, and smoked Snowdonia cheese pie served with garden kale and Café de Paris butter. Vegetarian options are equally creative, including wild mushroom and truffle arancini or BBQ hispi cabbage with miso butter and chili heat. Desserts might include chocolate mousse or cherry and tahini ice cream, complemented by a selection of Welsh cheeses and honey madeleines.

An Intimate and Rustic Ambience

The atmosphere at Paternoster Farm is warm and rustic, blending the charm of its agricultural heritage with a refined dining experience. The former milking parlour setting is cozy yet spacious enough for comfortable seating, often with just two people per table, fostering an intimate environment. The decor’s natural elements, such as pampas grass and wooden beams, enhance the connection to the farm’s rural surroundings.

Hospitality and Accessibility

Known for its friendly and enthusiastic staff, Paternoster Farm offers attentive service that complements the quality of the food. The venue includes a private dining room and a separate bar area, with wheelchair access and parking facilities, including electric car charging. While it is a working farm and not a conventional restaurant, the experience is prized for its authenticity and connection to the land.

Location and Surroundings

Situated in Pembrokeshire, the farm is surrounded by rolling countryside and natural beauty, making it a perfect destination for food lovers seeking a rural escape. The area offers opportunities for scenic drives and visits to nearby attractions like Pembroke Castle and coastal beaches. The farm also occasionally allows campervan parking, enhancing its appeal for travelers exploring the region.

Legacy and Future

Paternoster Farm has garnered acclaim for its innovative cuisine and commitment to local sourcing, earning a strong reputation despite its remote location. However, recent developments indicate the restaurant is set to close due to lease issues with Pembrokeshire County Council, marking the end of a beloved chapter in Pembrokeshire’s culinary scene.