The best restaurants in Cardiff

Italian soul meets British ingredients at Terramare, a stylish spot in the heart of Cardiff. With a focus on fresh, high-quality produce, the menu blends classic Italian flavours with a modern twist. Think handmade pasta, beautifully prepared seafood, and rich, authentic sauces—all served in a warm and elegant setting. Whether you're here for a long, lazy lunch or a special dinner, Terramare delivers a true taste of Italy.

Inspired by the lively bacari of Venice, Bacareto brings a little slice of Italy to Cardiff. This cosy spot is all about great wine, simple but delicious small plates, and a relaxed, buzzing atmosphere. Whether you're popping in for a quick espresso, a spritz with cicchetti, or a long evening of sharing plates and conversation, Bacareto makes every visit feel special.

Craft beer and fresh pizza—what more could you want? Zero Degrees is a pioneering microbrewery and restaurant in the heart of Cardiff, serving up freshly brewed beers alongside wood-fired pizzas, and other bold, flavourful dishes. With an industrial-chic vibe and a spacious terrace, it’s the perfect spot to kick back with friends and enjoy top-quality food and drink.

Bringing bold global flavours to cardiff, Basecamp Kitchen is a vibrant spot where fresh ingredients and creative cooking take centre stage. Inspired by world cuisines, their menu is packed with colourful, wholesome dishes, from hearty brunches to flavour-packed small plates. With a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere and a passion for great food, it’s the perfect place to refuel and unwind. 

Celebrating the best of Welsh produce, The Welsh House is all about quality ingredients, bold flavours, and warm hospitality. This stylish yet cosy restaurant champions local farmers, fishermen, and artisans, serving up beautifully crafted dishes that highlight the richness of Wales' culinary heritage. Whether it’s succulent Welsh lamb, fresh seafood, or seasonal veg, every plate is a showcase of the region’s finest.

In the heart of Cardiff, Daffodil offers a warm and stylish setting where seasonal ingredients take centre stage. Their menu celebrates modern British cuisine, with carefully sourced local produce and a focus on fresh flavours. Whether you're here for a beautifully cooked steak, a creative vegetarian dish, or a perfectly poured cocktail, Daffodil delivers with charm. The relaxed yet elegant atmosphere makes it a fantastic spot for any occasion.

Coppa Club Cardiff Townhouse, located in the iconic David Morgan department store, offers an elegant, all-day dining experience in the heart of the city. Spanning two floors, it blends luxury with comfort, featuring a ground-floor cafe and a stylish upstairs brasserie and cocktail bar. The menu showcases a modern take on British and Mediterranean classics, including sourdough pizzas, fresh pastas, and high-quality meat and fish. It's designed as an inclusive space for dining, working, and socializing, ensuring an unforgettable experience for both casual visits and private events.

The Potted Pig, nestled in a former bank vault beneath Cardiff, offers a unique dining experience. This restaurant and gin lounge specializes in modern Italian-inspired Welsh cuisine, emphasizing fresh, seasonal ingredients. Their ever-changing menus often feature impressive feasting platters, including whole suckling pigs (by pre-order), or alternatives like rib of beef. Beyond the food, The Potted Pig boasts an extensive selection of over 30 gins, making it an ideal spot for both a memorable meal and a sophisticated drink.

Genatsvale, Cardiff’s first Georgian restaurant, offers an authentic taste of the Caucasus in the bustling heart of St Mary Street. Family-run and passionate about Georgian's rich culinary heritage, the kitchen serves hearty Georgian staples like khachapuri, khinkali, and flavorful stews, alongside a curated selection of rare Georgian wines. The interior is warm and inviting, featuring folk art touches that transport diners straight to Georgia. Open Tuesday to Sunday from midday till late evening.

Nestled in a former canal warehouse, Bar 44 Cardiff is a lively tapas bar with a unique atmosphere. This bustling venue is the largest of the Bar 44 locations and features four subterranean rooms with striking arched brick ceilings. Bar 44 Cardiff is also the only place in the UK to serve three different types of sherry directly from full-sized barrels, adding to its distinctive character. It’s the perfect spot to experience authentic Spanish tapas in the heart of the city.

A sanctuary for the senses, Aura is a contemporary bar and brasserie set within the historic Coal Exchange in Cardiff. The design beautifully marries the building's rich heritage with contemporary elegance and luxe industrial charm. Aura offers an all-day dining experience with modern European cuisine, a diverse menu of fresh, high-quality ingredients, and signature Welsh specialties. The experience is enhanced by a curated cocktail and wine list, and the venue offers intimate private dining spaces for elaborate exchanges.

Located in the heart of Cardiff Bay, Picton & Co blends the soul of a deli with the spirit of a bar, offering a vibrant all-day dining experience. Born from a passion for flavour, it's a place where fresh, carefully sourced produce meets creative kitchen creations. The bar is an all-day destination featuring dishes from the grill, brunch classics, and small plates alongside a considered list of wines, cocktails, and craft drinks. The adjoining deli allows customers to take home a curated selection of the same quality cheeses, charcuterie, and ingredients used in the kitchen.

Located opposite the Wales Millennium Centre in Cardiff Bay, Giovanni's In The Bay is an iconic Italian restaurant that has become a true Cardiff institution. Serving real Italian food at its best, the venue captures an authentic atmosphere while providing delicious traditional dishes.The menu is a celebration of authentic Italian cuisine, from classic, freshly made pizzas and comforting pasta dishes to delicious starters and desserts. It's an incredibly popular destination for parties and special occasions, offering a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Situated in the landmark voco St. David's in Cardiff, Tir a Môr is a waterfront restaurant with breathtaking views across Cardiff Bay. Meaning 'land and sea' in Welsh, the concept celebrates the finest local, seasonal produce and the culinary heritage of Wales. The menu puts a modern twist on classic Welsh dishes, with ingredients sourced from the country's fertile valleys and coastal waters. The experience is completed by a drinks list featuring local spirits in signature cocktails, all served in an elegant setting with deep coastal-chic décor.

Ideally situated at the heart of Mermaid Quay, The Dock is a lively spot with an unrivalled waterside location in Cardiff. Its contemporary and eclectic interiors are flooded with light from expansive floor-to-ceiling windows. The seasonal menu focuses on using the freshest, quality local, Welsh ingredients, with options ranging from brunch and lunch to dinner. Offering a warm welcome, The Dock is a perfect venue for post-work drinks, celebrating a special occasion, and enjoying live music and sport.