A Food Lover’s Guide to Our Gallery Café & Lounge Experience
Where great food, local art, and warm community spirit come together in the heart of Llanidloes.
The Unicorn Hotel is more than a place to sleep — it’s a place to savour, to slow down, and to experience the warm, creative atmosphere that makes Llanidloes so special. At the heart of that experience is our Gallery Café and Lounge, a welcoming space that blends fresh, honest food with local art, good coffee, and the friendly vibe our guests love.
Whether you’re staying with us for the weekend or simply popping in for a drink or a bite to eat, this guide will help you discover everything that makes the Unicorn’s food and café experience unique.
1. The Atmosphere: Warm, Creative & Full of Local Charm
From the moment you step into the Lounge and Café area, you’ll feel a sense of warmth. Soft lighting, comfortable seating, and a calm, relaxed ambience set the tone for everything that follows. The décor blends the hotel’s heritage character with modern touches — a look that feels both inviting and inspiring.
What truly sets the space apart is the rotating selection of artwork from local and regional artists. From colourful landscapes to bold contemporary pieces, the walls always offer something new to admire. Many visitors say the art adds a peaceful, reflective feeling to the space — perfect for coffee, conversations, and quiet moments.
Whether you're grabbing breakfast, meeting a friend, or unwinding after a long day, the Lounge & Gallery Café feels like a natural gathering place — a reflection of Llanidloes’ community spirit.
2. Coffee & Hot Drinks: Crafted With Care
A café is only as good as its coffee — and we take ours seriously. Whether you prefer a bold espresso, a smooth latte, or a simple cup of tea, our barista-style drinks are prepared with quality and consistency in mind.
Our hot drinks menu includes:
✅ Freshly brewed coffee
✅ Cappuccinos, lattes & flat whites
✅ Artisan teas
✅ Hot chocolate
✅ Seasonal warm specials
The relaxed setting, combined with the aroma of fresh coffee, makes the Unicorn Café an ideal stop for morning plans, afternoon breaks, or a comforting warm-up on a rainy Welsh day.
3. Homemade Cakes & Light Lunches: Simple, Honest Food
The Unicorn Café is known for its homemade cakes, fresh bakes, and light lunches — dishes that are simple, comforting, and full of flavour.
You’ll often find:
✅ Fresh cakes of the day
✅ Homemade bread or bakes
✅ Toasties and light bites
✅ Seasonal soups
✅ Small plates inspired by local produce
We focus on quality ingredients and no-fuss food — the kind that warms your day without overwhelming your plate. Every dish is made to be enjoyed casually, comfortably, and without complication.
4. The Bar: From Quiet Drinks to Lively Evenings
As evening falls, the atmosphere shifts seamlessly from daytime café to a relaxed, welcoming bar — a favourite spot for both locals and travellers.
Our bar offers:
✅ Local ales and Welsh craft beers
✅ A curated wine list
✅ Traditional spirits
✅ Cocktails & seasonal drinks
✅ Soft drinks and warm options
Whether you're here for a pre-dinner drink, a nightcap, or a quiet evening with friends, the bar’s cosy, friendly vibe makes it a perfect place to unwind. You’ll often find lively conversations, gentle background music, and the comforting hum of a community gathering place.
5. Local Art: A Gallery With a Story
What makes our café truly special is its identity as a living gallery space. We showcase a rotating collection of work from Welsh and regional artists — painters, photographers, sculptors, and mixed-media creators.
Every few months, the exhibition changes, so there’s always something fresh and inspiring to enjoy. Many of the pieces are available for purchase, giving guests the chance to take home a unique memory of their visit.
Why the art matters:
- Supports local and emerging artists
- Adds personality and atmosphere
- Reflects Llanidloes’ creative community
- Makes the space feel alive and ever-changing
It’s not just a café — it’s a cultural space that celebrates creativity.
6. A Place for Everyone: Community, Conversation & Connection
The Lounge & Gallery Café is more than a hotel facility — it’s a community hub. Locals visit for coffee, travellers drop in for a warm meal, and creative groups sometimes gather for casual meetups or discussions.
We regularly host:
✅ Acoustic evenings
✅ Small events
✅ Community nights
✅ Art showcases
✅ Charity collaborations
It’s a space built around connection — the kind that stays with you long after your visit.
7. Perfect for Every Part of Your Day
Whether morning, afternoon, or evening, the Lounge & Gallery Café offers something different:
✅ Morning
Start with a warm drink, fresh breakfast options, and a peaceful atmosphere.
✅ Afternoon
Relax with a slice of cake, a light lunch, or a quiet moment surrounded by artwork.
✅ Evening
Enjoy a drink, conversation, and a warm, inviting bar setting.
The flexibility of the space is part of its charm — it adapts to whatever you need that day.
8. Why Food Lovers Choose the Unicorn Café
Visitors often tell us they love our café because it feels genuine, unpretentious, and full of character. Everything reflects the values of the Unicorn Hotel:
✅ Simple, honest food
✅ Warm and friendly hospitality
✅ Creative, inspiring surroundings
✅ A balance of comfort and community
✅ A welcoming space for all ages
It’s a little taste of what makes Llanidloes special — and one of the reasons many guests return again and again.
Final Thoughts: Taste the Heart of Llanidloes at the Unicorn Hotel
Whether you're staying the night or simply visiting town, the Lounge & Gallery Café offers a warm, inviting place to eat, drink, relax, and enjoy the creative spirit of Llanidloes. With its blend of fresh food, local drinks, friendly service, and inspiring artwork, it’s a true reflection of the Unicorn Hotel’s personality.
Pull up a chair, order a drink, and take in the atmosphere — we look forward to welcoming you.
