Before its recent closure Park House was often ranked among Cardiff's top restaurants. In the eyes of many in the hospitality industry, though, the venue has long held a murkier reputation. One former employee claimed its "problems" are such an open secret that when they tell job interviewers they worked there, the reaction is often one of sympathy.
The restaurant and wine bar — based at Park Place in a Grade-I listed oak-panelled Victorian mansion designed by the legendary William Burges — ran from 2005 until last month, when we reported on customers' complaints that they had made reservations and turned up only to find the venue had closed down. Our story also covered the anger of a groom-to-be who was due to have his wedding reception at Park House in May this year. He claimed the business failed to inform him of its closure and only refunded his £3,000 deposit after WalesOnline raised his concerns.
Since publishing that piece we have spoken with former staff about their experiences of the business and its owner Adam Pledger. A group of 12 recent front-of-house workers and chefs claim they are owed a total of £25,000 in unpaid wages, but there are other allegations dating back years. They range from a "toxic" culture and "exhausting" work conditions to court orders, tax issues and suppliers chasing debts. Two former head chefs claim Mr Pledger falsely accused them of stealing equipment after he failed to pay their wages.
