42 Bridge Street, Newport, NP20 4NY
Harden's says
The tasting menus here combine "classic dishes, modern approach, artistry and molecular science" - and come with matching wine or kombucha options.
Harden's survey result
Summary
“How this business survives in Newport is unbelievable! It’s far too good!” – twin brothers Sergio and Pasquale Cinotti (the latter the pastry chef) established this brave destination in 2018, and – some would say against all odds – continue to go from strength to strength (in 2022 they were the AA’s Welsh Restaurant of the Year). For the full blow-out, you can opt for a ten-course ‘Essenza’ menu which changes daily at £180 per head; but there are much more affordable ‘entry-level’ options, ranging from £65 per head.
Summary
“Very pleasantly surprised!” – brothers Sergio (chef) and Pasquale (pastry chef) Cinotti are carving a strong reputation out of nowhere at this fairly humble-looking destination, which they opened in un-lovely Newport in 2018. “Having been around for some time, they have reinvented themselves”. First listed in Harden’s last year, in September 2022 they were awarded ‘Wales Restaurant of the Year’ by the AA, alongside an impressive three rosettes. It’s “expensive for Newport!” but well worth a try for its highly ambitious cuisine: the blow-out ten-course option is £180, but there is a much more accessible 4-course option. Expect luxury ingredients a-go-go: foie gras, truffle, venison, lobster, black cod…
Summary
A series of four-course tasting menus from chef Sergio and even a £98 caviar experience and posh afternoon tea help make this plush venue the local place to celebrate. Too few ratings for a grade, but some promising feedback – more reports, please!
For 33 years we've been curating reviews of the UK's most notable restaurant. In a typical year, diners submit over 50,000 reviews to create the most authoritative restaurant guide in the UK. Each year, the guide is re-written from scratch based on this survey (although for the 2021 edition, reviews are little changed from 2020 as no survey could run for that year).
Have you eaten at Gem 42?
Owner's description
Our mission is to provide humble delicious food with a creative touch, never a pretentious attitude, but just sharing a loved passion for what we do best.Our culinary journey is very much about Tradition with Innovation.
All of our dishes /ingredients are researched and studied, sourced locally, tried and tasted in our dedicated Lab.
Our Chefs have created a biodynamic vegetable garden, where the aromatic herbs/micro-herbs and vegetables are grown and used in the dishes of our menus.
With a view that beauty lies in simple things. What we can offer, is what we learned from the past, where you take the best of cooking and keep improving using culinary vanguard approach and techniques that simply evaluate your perception of food. Some of the dishes are unique in flavours and culinary concept. The excellent relationship we have built with suppliers and joint passion for their commitment to animal welfare and top quality produce are crucial to the high standards that we strive for.
Prices
| Availability | 2 courses | 3 courses |  |
 |
 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Always | £65.00 |  |
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| Cost | Availability | Courses | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Menu1 | 180.00 | Always available | 10 |
| Drinks |
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|---|---|
| Wine per bottle | £29.00 |
| Filter Coffee | £0.00 |
| Extras |
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|---|---|
| Service | 12.50% |
Restaurant details
Gem 42 Restaurant Diner Reviews
"I recently had the pleasure of dining at Gem42 restaurant . I felt compelled to share my experience and provide feedback on my visit. From the moment me and my friends walked in, we were impressed by the warm and inviting ambiance, the decor and and the atmosphere that immediately set the tone for the evening . The service was exceptional genuinely friendly and accommodating. Now, onto the highlight of the evening - the food. I must commend the chef and kitchen staff for delivering a truly remarkable culinary experience. Each dish of our Signature tasting menu was a masterpiece of flavors, presentation, and quality ingredients. It is evident that Chef Sergio and his team take pride in their craft, and the passion for food shines through in every bite, each dish was flawless. Also appreciate the wine pairing with a selection that complemented the dishes perfectly. The recommendations from a very knowledgeable sommelier added an extra layer to the overall dining experience.. Gem42 exceeded our expectations, and l wanted to take the time to express my gratitude for the outstanding service and culinary experience."
"I am writing to express my utmost satisfaction and to commend the exceptional dining experience I recently had at Gem 42 restaurant in Newport, South Wales. From the moment I walked through the door, I was genuinely impressed by the warm and cordial welcome extended to me by the staff. Their professionalism and attentiveness throughout the evening enhanced every aspect of the dining experience. What truly set Gem 42 apart was the exceptional quality of their food, which seamlessly combined locally sourced produce with an enticing Italian twist. Each dish was meticulously prepared and presented, demonstrating the chef's dedication to culinary perfection. The exquisite flavours and creative combinations showcased the immense talent and skill of the kitchen team. It was evident that the restaurant's ethos resonated with the increasingly discerning expectations of modern diners, seeking an harmonious blend of culinary excellence and environmental responsibility."
"I am writing to express my utmost satisfaction and to commend the exceptional dining experience I recently had at Gem 42 restaurant in Newport, South Wales. From the moment I walked through the door, I was genuinely impressed by the warm and cordial welcome extended to me by the staff. Their professionalism and attentiveness throughout the evening enhanced every aspect of the dining experience. What truly set Gem 42 apart was the exceptional quality of their food, which seamlessly combined locally sourced produce with an enticing Italian twist. Each dish was meticulously prepared and presented, demonstrating the chef's dedication to culinary perfection. The exquisite flavours and creative combinations showcased the immense talent and skill of the kitchen team. It was evident that the restaurant's ethos resonated with the increasingly discerning expectations of modern diners, seeking an harmonious blend of culinary excellence and environmental responsibility."
"I visited Gem42 on a friend reccomandation, it was an exceptional experience my guests and I had during our recent visit. The quality and taste of the dishes presented to us were exquisite, paired flawlessly with excellent wines suggested by a very knowledgeable sommelier. I would like to commend the staff members for their utmost professionalism and courtesy throughout the course of the evening. Their attentive and personable demeanor was a highlight of the evening, making for a truly enjoyable experience. It is without hesitation that I would recommend Gem42 restaurant to any food connoisseur looking for an elevated sensory experience. My fellow diners and I were thoroughly impressed with the 10-course tasting menu that was served to us. The dishes were all expertly prepared and creatively presented, showcasing the skill and artistry of chefs team. The attention to detail and care taken in every aspect of the dining experience truly sets this establishment apart from the rest."
"Brilliant, last week we visited for the first time Gem42 b ecause of a friend reccomandation. Well we were blown away. The welcoming was friendly and yet professional, the food is incredibly interesting with amazing flavours.Great wine list and menu pairings. Dietary requirements taken care of without issues or detriment.The setting is beautiful."
42 Bridge Street, Newport, NP20 4NY
Opening hours
| Monday | 5:40 pm‑10:30 pm |
| Tuesday | 5:40 pm‑10:30 pm |
| Wednesday | 5:40 pm‑10:30 pm |
| Thursday | 5:40 pm‑10:30 pm |
| Friday | 5:40 pm‑10:30 pm |
| Saturday | 5:40 pm‑10:30 pm |
| Sunday | CLOSED |
