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
Twins Sergio and Pasquale Cinotti (a pastry chef) run this brave venture, which aims to bring the finest sourcing, seasonality and sustainability to a corner of Wales seldom associated with gastronomy. Despite having been the AA’s Welsh Restaurant of the Year in 2022/23 it inspired limited feedback in our annual diners’ poll. There are three-course, six-course and even a ten-course menu, ranging from £65 per person to £160 per person.
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!
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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 |
|
|---|---|
| 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."
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 |
