About the award 

Each year the AA independently inspects hundreds of restaurants across the British Isles. Introduced in 2000, this award recognises restaurants that provide cuisine of a truly excellent standard, as well as demonstrating innovation and ambience and providing a high standard of hospitality.

Gem 42, Newport

The unassuming building is easy to miss, but once inside you’re hardly likely to forget the exuberant Mediterranean feel, with Botticelli-style ceilings and crisply dressed tables with Murano glass ornaments. The emphasis is on Italian style and ingredients, combined with top quality Welsh seasonal produce.

You can expect a happy fusion of classical foundations and contemporary techniques, all delivering an entertaining medley of textures and flavours. A selection of differing tasting menus is available, along with an excellent wine selection, including wine flights, or, for a non-alcoholic option, a matching tasting flight of Kombucha makes for an enjoyable variation.