Revitalizing Llanberis: The Return of Pete’s Eats
Pete’s Eats, the iconic café for climbers nestled in Eryri (Snowdonia), has reopened its doors this summer after nearly three years of closure. The revamped establishment boasts a stylish ambiance, featuring a copper bar, rustic wooden accents, local craft beers, and an array of tacos served by a vibrant team of young locals clad in branded apparel. Significant investment has clearly gone into the renovation, positioning it as a key player in the ongoing conversion of Llanberis.
A Legacy Begins
When Pete Norton and his wife Victoria established their café back in 1978, thay aimed to create a sanctuary for climbers and hikers seeking nourishment after adventurous days on Eryri’s rugged terrain.Visitors drenched from rain-soaked hikes could expect generous mugs of tea poured from oversized metal teapots, hearty servings of chili and vegetable curry over brown rice, all-day breakfasts, or towering chip butties.
The Climbers’ Hub
The walls were decorated with monochrome photographs showcasing local climbing legends tackling some of the UK’s most challenging routes—Andy Pollitt on Lord of the Flies at Dinas Cromlech; Al Harris navigating A Dream of White Horses at Gogarth; John Redhead conquering Rainbow Slab at Dinorwic slate quarries.
During the vibrant climbing scene in the ’80s, Llanberis Pass attracted elite climbers globally while Pete’s Eats became their beloved greasy spoon haven. I fondly recall spending countless hours by window seats next to an old jukebox that played tunes like The Kinks’ “Sunny Afternoon,” harmonizing with raindrops against glass panes as chalk-dusted adventurers entered seeking warmth—and ofen requesting access to the Route Book—a legendary record where local rock stars documented their latest ascents.
A New Chapter for Pete’s Eats
Pete’s Eats changed hands in late2018 but faced challenges during COVID lockdowns before closing for renovations in September2022 without any indication it would reopen—a disheartening sight given its central role within Llanberis.
This year marked a turning point when entrepreneur Nick Pritchard took action to revive Pete’s legacy. “We had no choice but to intervene,” he stated passionately about his love for Llanberis which he watched struggle due to limited food options available for visitors.” The café welcomed patrons again this July.
A Modern Menu Meets Tradition
The new menu retains classic offerings like those famous pints of tea while introducing contemporary dishes such as smashed avocado toast alongside conventional welsh breakfasts—an exciting blend that reflects both heritage and modern tastes! Staff members exude enthusiasm creating an inviting atmosphere filled with determination towards success amidst ongoing recovery efforts affecting local pubs still reeling from pandemic impacts.
once bustling establishments like Morris Bros bakery have closed down along with other community staples including post offices—the Padarn Hotel bar used to mirror life inside Pete’s during evenings when diners migrated down high street after dark—but now social gatherings have shifted towards Yr Ddraig social club hosting lively events featuring live Welsh bands among others!
