Best Restaurants In Cardiff

Pizza Pilgrims know a thing or two about a droolworthy slice and their restaurant in the heart of Cardiff is no different. The rustic and kitsch-looking spot is bringing a taste of Naples to the people of the city centre, along with Italian decor and contemporary touches. 

You'll find plenty to get excited about on a menu that boasts an outstanding marghertia with a crispy, fluffy crust. Other favourites include toppings like pepperoni and hot honey, smoky aubergine, and mushroom and truffle. Enjoy all of this and more alongside Aperol spritzes and negronis, with tiramisu for dessert.

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The Ivy is one of the best Cardiff city centre restaurants, offering its visitors a taste of the high life with its brasserie menu and handcrafted cocktails. Settle in among the floral decor before diving into seasonal dishes, weekend brunches and afternoon teas. There's even a rooftop terrace for sunset dining.

The Cardiff Townhouse can be found on the site of the iconic David Morgan department store, spanning across two floors. The cafe downstairs is perfect for fresh coffee and a delicious lunch, but if you head to the second storey then you'll find a stunning cocktail bar and restaurant complete with a skylight and touches of gold. As for the menu? Expect a variety of international dishes like fillet of beef tataki, Catalan prawns or spinach and ricotta ravioli.

Mowgli is rustling up a load of aromatic house curries, hearty tiffin boxes and authentic Indian street food in a chilled-out setting. Often hailed as one of the city's very best (and most gorgeous) eateries, this joint will have you swooning over its menu in no time.

A cosy boozer nestled in the heart of the city, Brewhouse & Kitchen is a lovely hangout for all-day munching. Grab yourself a table to devour lip-smacking small plates, proper sandwiches done right, elevated pub classics and wholesome Sunday roasts.

YO! Sushi St Davids is certainly one of the best Cardiff city centre restaurants, serving up a bevvy of beautiful Japanese dishes. Venture over to wolf down things like maki and nigiri, as well as katsu curry, firecracker rice and miso soup.

For those looking to explore international flavours in Cardiff, Viva Brazil brings an authentic taste of Brazil to the city centre. With a mix of barbecue-style meats, a generous salad bar, and a family-friendly atmosphere, it's ideal for both casual meals and special nights out.

The combination of flavourful food, central location, and interactive dining makes Viva Brazil a great choice for anyone wanting something unique on the Cardiff dining scene.

The Cardiff Stable is definitely one of the best pizza restaurants around, thanks to its totally unique menu. Not only can you find slices slathered in Morrocan-spiced lamb, slow-roasted beef or porkless pepperoni, but also mac 'n' cheese and side salads.

Firing up serious slices on the regular, Zerodegrees is the casual restaurant and microbrewery that you need to discover. Venture over for droolworthy pizzas, topped with fresh ingredients and cooked to perfection, before knocking back a range of refreshing craft beers. 

Looking for an indulgent Thai meal with friends or family? Then head to Giggling Squid, a fun, relaxed restaurant in St David's Shopping Centre. This pretty spot is filled with gorgeous floral decor and plush booth seating, promising a welcoming atmosphere.

There's all sorts to enjoy on their extensive menu, from slow-cooked beef stir-fries to vegetable pad Thai or fragrant green curries. What's more, there are a number of delicious cocktails to wash it all down with.

Get your fill of scrumptious Japanese fare over at one of the best restaurants in Cardiff Bay, Yakitori1. Wolf down stunning platters of sushi, the eponymous meat skewers and a whole range of stir-fries, complemented with sake or plum wine.

A stylish location with oodles of personality, Thomas is the second venue from MasterChef star, Tom Simmons. If you're looking for posh restaurants in Cardiff city centre, this promises premium Welsh cooking, so make your way over for unique creations and elevated classics.

Bringing Indian fine dining to Cardiff, Purple Poppadom is one impressive spot. Award-winning and specialising in modern cuisine, this beaut will keep you coming back for more. Expect sublime dishes courtesy of acclaimed chef Anand George.

Found nestled in the Park Plaza Hotel, Laguna Kitchen and Bar is a top dining destination, presenting its guests with a chilled-out space for cocktails, brunch and alfresco suppers. If you're hunting for the best restaurants in Cardiff city centre, this is one that'll really impress.

Curado is bringing authentic Spanish tapas to the heart of the Welsh capital. Boasting contemporary interiors, delicious plates of jamon and perfect pinxtos, as well as wine and cocktails, this is one cool restaurant for a date night.

A standout on Cardiff's dining scene, Gorse bagged its Michelin star within eight months of opening its doors in 2024. With a changing seasonal menu, it focuses on the best of Welsh produce to create dishes that are spectacular without being stuffy. 

Think Breconshire fallow deer and wild bilberry, lobster from St David's with trout roe and baked organic swede from Abergavenny. With Tom Waters in the kitchen, formerly of Heston Blumenthal's Fat Duck, you can expect fine dining whenever you stop by.

When it comes to the best restaurants in Cardiff city centre for group dining, Gaucho has to be right up there. Choose between private options and large tables, all with Argentinian steak, ceviche, empanadas and more on the menu.

Everyone in Cardiff has heard of Pasture - it's just one of those places. But why is it so famous? It's as chic as they come, with bare-brick walls, leather booths and exposed piping on the ceiling. Plus the food is heavenly, showcasing serious steaks and hearty roasts.

Offering modern European delights in a luxury space, The Classroom is one swish spot for a romantic dinner. All the dishes are prepared from scratch and made up of fresh Welsh produce, before being served in a dining room with exceptional views of the city.

When it comes to independent restaurants in Cardiff city centre, Lee Skeet really knows what he's doing. In the same building as his laid-back oyster bar Jackson's, Cora is an intimate, 10-seater destination slinging out stunning tasting menus featuring the best of British produce.

Asador 44 is one of the most romantic restaurants in Cardiff city centre, serving enticing Spanish dishes in a cool setting. Made up of wooden cladding, exposed brick and warm features, this charming eatery slings out top-quality chargrilled meat and vegetables, with fine wines to wash it all down. 

Have a hankering for tequila and tacos? Wahaca promises both of these and more. Head to one of the best Cardiff restaurants in the city centre for authentic Mexican cuisine, including burritos and enchiladas, which can be paired with classic margaritas, craft beers and wine.

Giving you a slice of South America, Vivo Latino is one of the top restaurants in Cardiff. This vibrant number caters to all occasions, blending Mexican, Brazilian, Cuban and Peruvian flavours for a party on your palate, which you can pair with heady cocktails.

When it comes to banging burgers, The Grazing Shed is a well-respected name that's won a load of awards for its juicy patties. Head to this city centre restaurant for hearty buns which you can polish off in shabby-chic interiors. 

Nook in Cardiff is an intimate, neighbourhood restaurant that champions natural wines and seasonal small plates. Soak up the trendy and friendly atmosphere, then chomp on the Michelin guide-rated grub that's sure to have you coming back for more.

Heaneys is a top candidate for Michelin star restaurants in Cardiff. Not only does it front gorge interiors (think luxe seating, indoor trees and light-loving windows), but also a menu of droolworthy delights. You can expect seasonal produce crafted into creative, international fare.

The Potted Pig is a real treat for the senses, showcasing high-grade grub in cosy surrounds. Take a load of the 100z ribeye, accompanied by smoked brisket croquettes, braised carrots and black garlic ketchup. To wash it down? Wine, lagers and cider are ripe for the picking.