Featured Chef
by Jessica Booth
THE EGRYN TASTE: INFORMAL, INVITING, IN ABERSOCH A few small steps down the high street of Abersoch is a fantastic restaurant and B&B, although The Egryn & Egryn Taste really goes beyond those names. This family run establishment has a closeknit team of staff that really care about service but without pretence. Sensation Magazine stopped by for a visit and a chat to find out more about this star in the village. Lynne and Mike Maylor are relaxed and comfortable in any aspect of their business. It really feels as if I’ve been invited into their lovely home as a friend. Maybe this is down to their cordial smiles and the obvious care. The décor in the dining room and bar of the restaurant is dusky and warm, completely inviting as you are cocooned in wood tones and sultry purple hues. The room is full of the diffused glow of candles and large windows full of natural light. Overall the feeling is both friendly and intimate. And as Mike and Lynne point out they have a regular cliental of families in the earlier evening as well as couples and groups without children. It is a rare restaurant that can cater to both and maintain that special atmosphere of informal intimate dining. I would say that this same friendly but intimate feeling is carried right through to the menu. Nigel Matthews, the head chef and Lynne have a collaborative and creative menu which shows both of their love of food and the dining experience. Lynne really wants the attention to be on what is important, “fresh, locally sourced ingredients, simple homemade food and service that delights our customers.” And Nigel had a similar point of view.
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When I asked what he enjoyed most about catering he said, “Seeing people happy”, which from a guest’s point of view is pretty spot on. Nigel has a passion for food and cooking which started from the age of six when he began cooking at home. He takes inspiration from all over the world especially the fusion and creativity from Australia which mixes fresh ingredients from all over, Asia, Africa and Europe.
“Seeing people happ y” Nigel in the kitchen