Let's be honest, the humble pint and glass of wine have got nothin' on a good old cocktail. And from secret haunts that shake up the quirkiest of concoctions to trendy bars slinging out affordable mixes, our city boasts some of the most delicious drinks around. Whether yours is an ice-cold pina colada, a classic old fashioned or an end-of-the-night espresso martini, check out our recommendations for the very best cocktail bars in Cardiff.
Last edited by Scarlett Welch
Last updated on 12th January 2026
One of the most unique cocktail bars in Cardiff, Dead Canary is as eclectic as they come. Not only does it boast brooding, vintage interiors, but it also features a roaring mix of classic and creative concoctions made by truly skilled hands.
If you're searching for the most dreamy drinks around, then The Cocktail Club Cardiff is just the place. Replicating their famous London venues, this party spot is serving up masterclasses, bottomless brunch and more to get the party started.
Though you'll find a welcoming cafe serving fresh coffee on the ground floor, if you head upstairs at The Cardiff Townhouse then you can sip cocktails at their gorgeous atrium bar - complete with a pretty skylight. Expect golden decor, colourful seating and lots of greenery, with creative concoctions like the Honeybee spritz or a Peach Melbatini up for grabs. There are plenty of tasty eats on offer too, from sourdough pizzas topped with Buffalo mozzarella to sweet potato and baked feta.
The Bootlegger Cardiff is a quirky cocktail bar inspired by the end of Prohibition, so expect the live music turned up, the drinks boozy and the party popping. Better yet, they also offer cocktail masterclasses for just £22 per person.
@ Alcotraz Penitentiary: Cardiff on Various dates from Friday 6th February 2026
No two cocktails are the same at Alcotraz: Cell Block Nine-One, as you have to sneak your own liquor past the warden in order to have one made. Watch out for the guards and get creative with your smuggling, at this amazing immersive experience.
As cocktail bars go, The Botanist is a Cardiff heavyweight. Their drinks list leans botanical and creative, using infused spirits, florals, fruits and garden herbs to full effect.
Expect playful presentation, such as flasks, garnished spritzes, plant pots and elegant coupes, all wrapped in a space draped with greenery. Highlights include the jasmine-laced Flower Power 75, the watermelon-forward Botanista Cosmo and the three-rum Botany Bay Punch for something tropical.
Get ready to shake a leg, sip on swanky cocktails, and make memories that'll last forever at Boho Club on St Marys Street! This funky party space is nestled under the Cardiff Market and pumps out sick beats on its state-of-the-art sound system—everything from house to R&B to keep you grooving till the wee hours.
City centre bar The Underdog is an 80s-inspired lounge that's ideal for drinks with friends or date night. The dark, sultry interiors feature deep green walls and plush red sofas to relax in, with pretty plants dotted around the room.
They play a soundtrack of 80s, 90s, hip hop and disco tunes, whether you're listening with a drink or hitting the dancefloor. There's also a pool table, foosball and a pinball machine for some added entertainment, alongside a tasty food menu that features everything from steak and fries to smash burgers.
When it comes to affordable cocktails in Cardiff, there's a name that'll never let you down. Be At One is not only one of the best late-night bars in the city with its lively DJ-led atmosphere, but its mixologists also shake together a delicious array of classic and creative concoctions.
The UK's sassiest cocktail bar has landed in Cardiff; that's right, Tonight Josephine is amping up the party vibes with its eye-catching interiors, cracking cocktails and top tunes. Head on over with the whole gang for a seriously banging night out dancing 'til the AM.
Touting a pretty outdoor terrace and chic indoor space, it's no wonder why Peppermint Cardiff is a popular spot in the city. Enjoy quaffing a Breakfast Martini made up of a gin, Earl Grey tea, apricot marmalade and a dash of peach bitters, or a signature mojito, they won't fail to hit the spot.
Latin life, colour and culture come alive at this stunning cocktail bar in Cardiff's city centre. With a name that harks of salsa nights and South American bites, Revolucion De Cuba's drinks list will dazzle you with punchy flavours and reasonable prices.
For seriously good cocktail bars in Cardiff? Pennyroyal always comes up trumps. Give the hidden doorbell a ring and, before you know it, you'll be sipping on expertly blended boozy bevs made by a team of knowledgeable mixologists.
This independent bar in Cardiff amps up the carnival vibes on the weekend when local revellers arrive en masse to fiesta the night away. Inspired by the cuisine of South America, Vivo Latino's menu is a fusion of flavourful dishes, all to be washed down with signature pisco sours and caipirinhas.
One of the best cocktail bars in Cardiff, Lab 22 simply can't help itself when it comes to mixing and muddling some of the finest drinks in the city. They've won multiple awards, including a place in the UK's Top 50 Cocktail Bars list.
Whether it's a private party, a fun group event or after-work drinks, head on down for a roster of unique infusions that tease with creativity and style.
