One of the most celebrated places for drinking and dining in the UK, Cardiff comes blessed with alternative and quirky venues to check out when your standard routine just won’t cut it. Featuring everything from opulent bars with talented mixologists to buzzing cultural hubs for live entertainment, there’s plenty to consider when you’re looking for something a little different in Cardiff. Here’s just a few cool venues to try next time you’re out on the town.
Last edited by Kiera Chapman
Last updated on 16th May 2025
If quirky things to do in Cardiff are your jam, then you must put YO! Sushi School on the list. You'll enjoy gyozas and a drink on arrival, followed by the chance to learn some knife skills, enjoy a bit of history and whip up four delicious items.
@ Alcotraz Penitentiary: Cardiff on Various dates from Saturday 17th May 2025
Spice up your night with an evening behind bars at Alcotraz: Cell Block Nine-One. The secret speakeasy offers an immersive, theatrical experience based on real life inmate stories. Smuggle-in liquor past the warden and enjoy bespoke cocktails made with your successful contraband.
Let loose at Coyote Ugly - the Nashville-inspired bar found in the city centre. You can enjoy all kinds of wild parties here, as well as some fun daytime events.
You can enjoy an hour-long dance lesson every Saturday, complete with a mimosa reception. Plus their bottomless brunches run every single day, including 90 minutes of unlimited pizza, prosecco and beer.
On the hunt for a bottomless brunch in Cardiff's city centre? Tonight Josephine is the pink party palace that's coming in hot for your weekend antics. Gobble up delicious eats, wash it down with free-flowing drinks and enjoy all kinds of live entertainment.
After something different, like travelling to an alternate world via a VR headset? Then check out Active Reality in Llanrumney and Llanishen, where you'll be plunged into a six by nine meter arena as a group of up to 6. Battle zombies in an infested manor, try to keep up in Kitchen Panic and enjoy wave-based shooter Kraken Island.
Weird and wonderful bars in Cardiff city centre rarely come as cool as Flight Club. Not only are its interiors a sight to behold, inspired by vintage playgrounds, but it also boasts a jungle-like rooftop terrace. Head over for social darts, pizza and a load of liquid libations.
Need something a little different for your next night out? The Piano Works Cardiff is not your average bar or restaurant. Here, you become part of the entertainment by choosing the songs you want to hear - and the live band brings them to life.
The vibe shifts seamlessly from relaxed dining to all-out party, with singing waiters warming things up and a DJ keeping things moving late into the night. Whether you're planning a surprise date, a group night out, or just looking to break your routine, this is a refreshing and exciting change from the norm.
After something completely out of the ordinary? The Dead Canary is a sleek, decadent spot on call for special occasions or whenever you fancy some beautiful cocktails in Cardiff. Housed in a Grade II-listed building, there's live jazz and folk music at the weekends and drinks are made by the highly skilled mixologists in a low-lit, ridiculously stylish setting. Booking in advance is always a good idea, which you can do - for free - on our website.
Discounts available on certain events
When it comes to having a unique time in this city, Bougie Drag & Boy Toy Events Cardiff has to be right up there. Not only will you get to see a stellar themed show, drag hosts and waiters in the buff, but also sip bottomless booze.
@ District Cardiff on Saturday 7th June 2025 and 5 other Saturdays
Get ready to lip-sync for your life with tickets to Bougie Drag Bottomless Brunch, taking place at Walkabout in Cardiff. Marvel as some of the hottest queens around take to the stage (past performers have seen Honey Foxx and Tamara Thomas strut their stuff), and present a host of games, gags and more. Sip on 90 minutes of free-flowing tipples with your pals and devour the likes of chicken, beef or veggie burgers alongside fries to keep your stamina up.
As a bar inspired by the end of Prohibition, The Bootlegger Cardiff really know how to help you let loose. From cocktail masterclasses coming in at £22 a person to live music and DJs bringing the party, this fun spot has it all.
Bored of the usual pub scene and craving something quirkier? Porter's be the pub for you. Gathering up a crowd of fun-seekers who head in for the eclectic line-up of comedy nights, live gigs, ping-pong, board games and film screenings, it's time you checked out this smashing bolthole for yourself. Pizzas are on the menu and there's a good solid range of affordable drinks; a must-try alternative night out in Cardiff.
Situated in a former bank vault below the High Street, leave the bustle of the city centre behind in favour of this glorious restaurant and bar. The Potted Pig champions independent, high-quality producers and it shows, with a few French and NYC influences sprinkled over a menu of Modern British food. Gin fan? Good, because there's an outstanding list of bespoke gins running to over 30, as well as a good solid choice of wine and beer. One of our top picks when it comes to quirky restaurants in Cardiff.
Caffi is the destination of choice for lovers of art and theatre inside the city's vibrant Chapter complex. Setting up a cosy environment largely thanks to the huge paintings and otherwise minimalist interior design, it's a stress-free hangout that provides a much-needed break from your typical bustling bar in the city. Relax in this quirky Cardiff bar with craft beer, real ales and a seasonal food menu to cater for all tastes.
