Cool And Quirky Bars In Cardiff

From secret speakeasies and gloriously gold haunts to eccentric spots that serve up cocktails in snakeskin boots, this city really has a colourful bunch of places to drink. Whether you're looking for an epic first date spot, extraordinary group adventure or special occasion treat, our guide to Cardiff's cool and quirky bars will have you sipping theatrical concoctions in unique surrounds all day err day.

Last edited by Marcus Sanigar

Last updated on 23rd October 2025




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Alcotraz Cardiff: Cell Block Nine-One

@ Alcotraz Penitentiary: Cardiff on Various dates from Friday 5th December 2025

For quirky place to have a drink or two, head to prison, or more specifically: Alcotraz: Cell Block Nine-One, an immersive, theatrical speakeasy inspired by Hollywood movies and TV. Smuggle liquor past the eagle-eyed warden to hand to the 'serving' inmates who will make you a range of bespoke cocktails.

Bonnie Rogues Cardiff

If you're hunting for a bar in Cardiff that nails style, flavour, and atmosphere, Bonnie Rogues should be at the top of your list. 

Tucked away in the heart of the city, this hotspot combines trendy interiors with a wild vibe seven nights a week, making it the perfect place to turn up the energy. Check out its scrumptious pub food too, like Hunter's chicken, loaded nachos and fish and chips. 

The Piano Works Cardiff

One of the quirkiest choices for a night out in the city centre, The Piano Works is a live music hotspot on St Mary Street. This vibrant destination promises a weekly lineup of entertainment, as well as bottomless brunches every Saturday.

Expect to see professional pianists and their famous singing waiters to begin the evening, followed by a performance from their house band. Plus, there are DJs to keep the party going on weekends.

Tonight Josephine Cardiff

Sassing up the scene in Cardiff, Josephine's the name, and legendary parties are her game. From the brilliantly bold decor to the absolutely cracking drinks list, Tonight Josephine is the cocktail bar in Cardiff that's coming in hot, hot hot. Famous for throwing the wildest late-night fiestas, unbeatable happy hours, and the most talked-about boozy brunches, she's the embodiment of mischief and is about to cause a sensation in her latest venture. Get ready to be dazzled by dreamy décor, iconic neon splashes, and more Instagrammable moments than you could possibly capture. Whether you fancy a casual tipple with the gang or a full-blown fiesta, this sassy girl is welcoming you with open arms. We'd recommend sipping on the stunning Razzle Dazzle, a glittery mix of Eristoff vodka, Giffard Peche de Vigne, pineapple and vegan egg whites.

Barbara's Bier Haus Cardiff

For an authentic apres ski vibe right in the heart of the city, look no further than Heidi's Bier Bar on Mill Lane. Complete with beer towers, premium craft ales and all the best German, Scandinavian and international hits from live DJs, it's always a great night out here.

Open until 3am every single day, this is a great choice for hen and stag parties, birthdays and more. Plus they also offer everything from quiz nights to cocktail masterclasses and themed bottomless brunches.

The Underdog Cardiff

Located in the city centre The Underdog is a cool cocktail bar inspired by all things 1980s. The trendy spot is decked out in dark green walls and plush red sofas, with quirky artwork and pretty plants decorating the space.

There's pool, foosball and pinball for some added entertainment, as well as a dancefloor where you can groove to 80s, 90s, hip hop and disco tunes. Feeling peckish? They also serve juicy steaks and smash burgers.

Coyote Ugly Cardiff

Gear up for a howlin' good time at Cardiff's wildest watering hole – Coyote Ugly Saloon. Renowned as a raucous party palace, this quirky bar in the city centre is bringing you BBQ feasts, table dancing and banging drinks every night of the week. This isn't just a bar; it's a full-blown, table-dancing, shot-slinging extravaganza where the ordinary turns extraordinary. Hen party on the horizon? Congratulations, you've just found your paradise. This crazy joint is one for those who are keen for something a little different on their big night out; it's got the fun factor alright.

Play at Pins Cardiff

City Centre cocktail bar and hotspot Play at Pins is your go-to joint for an unbeatable mix of games and the best vibes in town. A dimly-lit neon paradise, here you can dive into boutique ten-pin bowling with a high-tech AR twist, outsmart the challenges in one of four immersive escape rooms, hit the bullseye on interactive darts boards, score some hoops, rule the pool tables, dominate in air hockey, and belt out your favorite tunes in karaoke. Plus, don't miss taking a trip down the nostalgia lane with the super cool retro arcade games on offer and sipping on delish cocktails like cherry brandy filled Blood & Sand and Choccy Martini.

Be At One Cardiff

When it comes to the best bars in Cardiff city centre for cool vibes, Be At One has to be right up there. Step right in to a spot where cocktail dreams come to life, served with a side of stellar service and an atmosphere that's simply unbeatable. Nestled on St Mary Street, this cocktail haven boasts an endless array of concoctions that have swiftly crowned it a jewel in the city's nightlife. Watch in awe as the bartenders, armed with all the makings of mixology magic, concoct a huge list of libations that span everything from frozen numbers to kooky mixes served in disco balls, while weekends see late-night opening too.  

 

Brewhouse

Pop along to Brewhouse, an entertainment hub, party hotspot and unique bar in Cardiff's city centre. Adorned with artwork celebrating iconic musicians, the venue sets the stage for its lively live music lineup. The focus here is on showcasing exceptional local artists, offering a diverse array of live performances that promise to make every evening memorable. Sports enthusiasts are also well catered to, with major sporting events broadcasted on large screens, ensuring you're always in on the action. And let's not forget about the happy hour—famously long and delightfully affordable. When it comes to drinks, this St Mary Street joint has it all: an extensive wine list, creative cocktails, and, for those who dare, a steady supply of Jäger bombs.

 

The Dock Feeder

The Dock Feeder brings art deco glam and golden finishes to Cardiff's New Canal Quarter. Designed to take you back to the roaring 20s, it brings you table service as standard and a long list of old school cocktails and tipples with a twist.

Whether you're stopping by for an afterwork pint or making a night of it, you'll be glad you made the trip down Churchill Way. 

NQ64 Cardiff

If you're looking for a unique bar in Cardiff city centre that offers that little extra edge, you've found it over at NQ64. The brilliant drinking den is home to a range of retro arcade games, from Street Fighter to Guitar Hero, with themed cocktails to match.

Chance & Counters

Chance & Counters is perfect for quirky cocktails in Cardiff, sporting a fantastic range of board games to entertain you while you sip. Stocking over 500 classic options to choose from, this joint lets you while away the hours with mates, dates and the like.