Wales has a rich culinary history, and it’s not restricted to just leek and cheese. From mouthwatering lamb cawl to Cymru-inspired pizza, Cardiff is positively overflowing with authentic dishes across the city. So, next time you’re on the lookout for a taste of home or if you’re a tourist that’s looking for the low-down on traditional eats, have a glance at some of our picks of the best Welsh food in Cardiff.

Steamed Welsh mussels at R.P Culley’s

Named after the famed local philanthropist, R.P. Culley’s are the specialists of Welsh cuisine in Cardiff, purely because they’ve dedicated their whole restaurant to it. Located in the Coal Exchange, the restaurant serves up some of the best steamed mussels Wales has got to offer, sourcing them from local suppliers and serving with a mouthwatering garlic and chilli cream with fresh bread. 

R.P Culley's specialise in Welsh cuisine. 

Nan’s Cawl at Pitch Bar and Eatery

It really doesn’t get much better than a traditional family recipe. Priding themselves on honest, modern Welsh food, Pitch on Mill Lane is a prime location to sample Paul’s Nan’s Cawl. Made with lamb slow-cooked over 12 hours, it's then served with grilled Welsh cheese on toast for extra deliciousness. Using only the freshest, local ingredients, this restaurant has a real passion for authentic cooking.

Tuck in to the flavours of home with an authentic cawl. 

Welsh rarebit from Madame Fromage

This gorgeous cheese monger and deli in Cardiff Arcade houses over 150 cheese varieties from artisan and award-winning seasonal farmhouse producers, making it a lovely spot to grab some traditional Welsh rarebit. Fancy a sit-down lunch? Check out their daily menu of specials and enjoy a sit down meal incorporating their delicious cheese and fresh produce before heading over to Cardiff Castle, located just opposite.

Madame Fromage has a cosy little cafe, perfect for feasting on gooey cheese on a chilly day. 

Brecon venison from Chapel 1877

Get a taste of the beautiful Brecon Beacons with a mouthwatering roasted loin of venison. To top it off, it’s wrapped in parma ham and served with locally-sourced parsnip puree, wild mushrooms, kale and a liquorice and blackberry jus. Offering a truly unique location, the elegant surroundings and ambient atmosphere of the historic Chapel 1877 makes it an even more authentic experience. 

It's not just the interiors of Chapel 1877 that will blow you away. 

Welsh lamb rump from The Potted Pig

This restaurant's ever-changing menu of organic, seasonal dishes from local producers and independent suppliers means only the freshest flavours are delivered to your plate. However, The Potted Pig doesn't just specialise in stunning pork dishes, they also happen to cook up a mean Welsh lamb rump. Served up with crisp lamb belly, mini shepherd's pie and tenderstem broccoli, this is comfort food at its best. 

It's not just pork that The Potted Pig do well, check out this mouthwatering dish. 

Carmarthenshire beef from Bully's

Priding themselves on using only the finest Welsh ingredients with a passion for authentic, modern dishes, Bully's are a must-visit for traditional eats. While they may change their menu regularly, one staple is the Carmarthenshire beef. Currently served with potato terrine, fine beans, roasted heritage carrots and red wine sauce, it's sure to be an absolutely sublime dinner offering.

Settle in and enjoy succulent beef at Bully's. 

The Cymru clucker pizza at The Stable

Ok so maybe not a traditional dish, but definitely showcasing the best of Wales, the Cymru clucker is one enticing pizza. While pretty much all their offerings making use of local ingredients, this one stands out as one of the tastiest, pairing juicy free-range chicken with roasted red and yellow peppers, mushrooms, mozzarella and oregano to create the perfect combination of Welsh and Italian cuisine. 

Chow down on a quirky Welsh-inspired pizza at The Stable.

Drink a Dic Penderyn at The Dead Canary

Paying homage to everyone from Christian Bale to Dylan Thomas, The Dead Canary have gone the extra mile when it comes to creating a Welsh-inspired drinks menu. If you’re in the mood for an after-dinner tipple, the Dic Penderyn with Penderyn Whisky is a must. Named after the famed Welsh martyr, also known as Richard Lewis, this robust drink is the perfect homage to his rebellious spirit.

Pay homage to a Welsh legend with this quirky concoction, a perfect way to round off your hunt for Welsh cuisine.