New Seafood Restaurant Approved for Saundersfoot Harbour
A vacant unit at the Marine Centre of Excellence in Saundersfoot is set to become a high-quality seafood restaurant after Pembrokeshire Coast National Park approved the new venture.
Rhianwen Lane, representing the established Carmarthen-based business Catch Cymru, submitted the application to transform Unit 21 into a food and drink establishment. The plan, which includes indoor seating and a takeaway service, received the full support of Saundersfoot Community Council.
Catch Cymru aims to build on its reputation for high-quality takeaway seafood by creating a unique seaside dining experience for both locals and tourists. The new dog-friendly restaurant will expand upon their popular fried fish and chips, offering a broader menu featuring seasonal grilled and barbequed fish, fresh salads, and a variety of side dishes like halloumi fries and corn on the cob. The drinks menu will showcase locally sourced beers and IPAs.
A key feature will be the “Catch of the Day” specials, sourced directly from the local harbour. The business stated this approach is designed to give customers a unique experience, encourage repeat visits, and demonstrate support for local fishermen. To further enhance the atmosphere, the restaurant plans to host live music from local artists on select weekends.
The change of use for the unit, formerly a chandlery, from a retail shop to a food and drink establishment was recommended for approval by a planning officer. A report noted that a viability statement from the Saundersfoot Harbour Authority had detailed how the unit was no longer sustainable for retail use and that a restaurant would “provide vitality and vibrancy to the harbourside location.”
In their final decision, park planners concluded that the new seafood business would positively contribute to the character of Saundersfoot Harbour, bring a vacant unit back into beneficial use, and provide a boost to the community and local economy.
