The Bryngwyn in Pwll, a family‑run favourite for more than 20 years, told customers this afternoon that its temporary January shutdown would now become permanent. The restaurant had closed on New Year’s Day, blaming rising costs and a quiet start to the year, but today confirmed it would not reopen.
The announcement triggered a wave of emotion online, with more than 200 comments from customers sharing memories of birthdays, anniversaries and family gatherings held at the restaurant.
Joanne Palmer said her family had enjoyed “so many lovely meals” over the last decade, recalling how staff were “amazing” when they celebrated her father’s 80th birthday. Sarah Jayne Davies described The Bryngwyn as one of her family’s “favourite places”, while Teresa Kelly said it had been “a big part of Pwll for many years”.
Others spoke of the personal significance the venue held. Carla Walters said it had been her late mother’s favourite restaurant, with every family celebration held there. “It’s an end of an era for our family,” she wrote. “You will be missed.”
But in a double blow for the town’s hospitality scene, long‑established Indian restaurant Ali Raj also confirmed its closure today — marking the end of 26 years in business. The owners posted a simple video of the lights being switched off for the final time.
The reaction was immediate and heartfelt. Keith Thomas said he was “absolutely gutted”, calling Ali Raj his go‑to place for a fantastic meal. Jeff Evans described it as an “awesome restaurant” with attentive staff, while Sandra Davies said it had felt like “a second home”.
Many customers spoke of decades of memories. Eileen Milligan thanked the team for “happy memories” and friendships formed over the years. Alma Davies said she had been going there for 26 years, calling it her favourite Indian restaurant. Cheryl North said she and her family had been regulars since the first weeks of opening, becoming close friends with the owners.
The closures come amid mounting pressure on the hospitality sector, with rising costs, staffing challenges and changing customer habits hitting independent businesses across Wales. For many in Llanelli, today’s announcements mark the loss of two venues that shaped family traditions, celebrations and community life.
As customers continue to share memories and messages of thanks, both restaurants leave behind loyal followings — and a sense that a chapter of Llanelli’s dining scene has come to an end.
