Something A Little Different

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By Scarlett Welch Editor, DesignMyNight Scarlett has covered the UK's best restaurants, bars and events for DesignMyNight since 2023. She holds an MA in Media & Journalism, with bylines in The Crack magazine and South London News, among others. Last updated on 3rd July 2026

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.




THE CARDIFF OUTDOOR TREASURE HUNT! One ticket per team of 2 to 4 people.

@ Outside Cardiff Central Station on Various dates from Tuesday 11th August 2026

See the city a little differently on the Cardiff Outdoor Treasure Hunt. As you make your way around the sights like Cardiff Castle and Bute Park, you'll follow clues and crack puzzles.

With 50 challenging tasks to take on, this is a fantastically fun test of your mental and physical wits. Tickets are just £11 for a team of up to four.

Alcotraz Cardiff: Cell Block Nine-One

@ Alcotraz Penitentiary: Cardiff on Various dates from Tuesday 11th August 2026

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. 

The Dead Canary

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.

Fabulous Brunch Events Cardiff

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.

Sip & Strip – Cabaret & Burlesque Afternoon

If you're looking for a day out that's sure to last long in the memory, get on over to the Sip & Strip Cabaret & Burlesque Afternoon. Across two and a half fun-packed hours, you'll be entertained by a hilarious drag queen host and a tremendous troupe of hunky strippers. 

Tickets are just £27.50 and include a welcome cocktail to get you on your way.

The Bootlegger Cardiff

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.

This summer, they've mixed up six limited-edition cocktails, available every day until 11pm for just £9.50 each. Expect Malibu Coconut Mojitos, an Altos Paloma Picante and more.

YO! Sushi School

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.

The Piano Works Cardiff

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.

Coyote Ugly Cardiff

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.

The Potted Pig

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.

Porter's

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.

Chapter's Café Bar

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.