We discovered On The Hill last year purely by chance while on a road trip through North Wales.

Ruthin is a historic market town nestled on the edge of the Vale of Clwyd. It’s often my experience that the prettier the town - Ruthin really is picture perfect - the uglier the dining scene; the usual tourist trap of poor food, poor service and eye-watering high prices.

So it was with some trepidation that I loaded the TripAdvisor app on my phone. Hungry enough that even a soggy panini would have sufficed, I was pleasantly surprised to find that the #1 rated restaurant in the local area was just a few hundred metres away. Reviews across the board were fantastic; 5 star ratings from 500+ reviewers.

Housed in a 16th century building, hidden on a side street just off the picturesque St Peter’s Square, this family-run bistro is a real find. On The Hill successfully marries friendly and efficient service with well-presented delicious food. Exposed beams, pew seating and creaky wooden floors all add to the character of the relaxed surroundings.

The menu is well varied, with a large selection of locally sourced foods available. There is a good selection of vegetarian options available too.

The meal started well with complimentary breads and olives which were delicious. So delicious that I seriously contemplated cancelling my food order to request further helpings!

My friend started with fish cakes, while I had the cream of leek, smoked cheddar & apple soup with crispy croutons.

To follow, I had the ‘Vegetarian trio’ (goats cheese, spinach, tomato & chilli filo parcel, a mozzarella, flame roasted red pepper ‘arancini’, and a ricotta cheese & asparagus ravioli with chick pea relish, artichoke puree, charred courgette, herb oil, served with a dressed salad), and my friend had ‘Welsh pork’; twice cooked crispy braised pressed belly, char-grilled tenderloin & crispy pulled shoulder, parsnip dauphinois, apple & Dijon mustard cream, buttered sweetheart cabbage, and cider gravy on the side & vegetables. Gorgeous!

When the bill comes we are always pleasantly surprised given the fantastic quality of the food. Our two-course meal for two cost us just under £35.  Booking ahead is essential, so too is arriving slightly early as parking can be difficult to find.

Despite being a 2 hour round-trip from home, we’ve returned to On The Hill several times. Never have we received a less-than-excellent meal. I would go so far as to say this might be the best value food in North Wales.

On The Hill Restaurant

1 Upper Clwyd St, Ruthin LL15 1HY

01824 707 736