With its tree-lined streets and youthful demographic, Pontcanna, in west Cardiff, is one of the city’s trendiest, and friendliest neighbourhoods. It also has some of Cardiff’s best dining spots. Here we list ten of the best restaurants to try.
Arbennig is a family-run restaurant which has gained itself an exceptional reputation. On arrival, you’ll be greeted by friendly and welcoming staff who do their best to make sure customers are happy. Arbennig offers a two-course lunch menu, as well as a traditional Sunday roast. The restaurant also has a cookery school, perfect for a present or a day out.
Looks like it's closedHours or services may be impacted due to Covid-19
Cibo is an Italian restaurant located in the heart of Pontcanna that serves tasty and authentic Italian dishes at a reasonable price; the Penne all’Arrabbiata is particularly good. The place can get incredibly busy, so be sure to book ahead. Cibo features a secret garden and a decent wine selection, and it serves brunch and breakfast too. On top of that, Cibo offers a delivery service.
Looks like it's closedHours or services may be impacted due to Covid-19
Fish at 85, essentially a fishmongers, has an on-site restaurant which many locals consider to be Cardiff’s best fish restaurant. The fish here is fresh and cooked to order, and the chef is accommodating and flexible. The restaurant is intimate and has friendly service and a menu that changes daily depending on the catch.
Looks like it's closedHours or services may be impacted due to Covid-19
Bully’s tries to use as much local produce in its dishes as possible. With an eclectic interior, it’s an easy, stylish place for a light lunch, and great puddings. The cinnamon brûlée is exceptional. From 12pm-2pm on Mondays to Saturdays, Bully’s offers a lunch menu special, including a bottle of wine. The restaurant also offers Gourmet evenings, where the wines are a secret.
Brava serves breakfast, lunch and dinner with a ‘bring your own booze’ policy, which is a hit with the costumers. An independent bistro, it has a friendly atmosphere, original art on the walls and specials that change weekly; look out for the goat cheese with roasted red pepper and toasted pine nuts.
The Cinnamon Tree serves a mixture of traditional Indian dishes, as well as some innovative and exciting options such as Goan sea bass. The dishes are full of flavor and spice and the prices are reasonable. The staff are very happy to accommodate any dietary needs that their customers may have.
One of the best Italian restaurants in Cardiff, Stefano’s Ristorante Italiano has won a clutch of awards for authentic and bold flavors such as those in its Vitello Con Salsiccia, a type of veal sausage. This family run restaurant offers an extensive wine list and also holds a number of events throughout the year, such as wine tastings and live music performances. The dessert menu is something to look forward to.
Well located and well priced, The Cricketers has a front and back beer garden in which to enjoy your meal. Working with as many local suppliers as they can, The Cricketers takes great pride in the food it offers. The menu changes regularly, and there are also daily specials if the regular options don’t take your fancy. This gastro pub also has a great range of beers and ales to wash down your meal with.
Looks like it's closedHours or services may be impacted due to Covid-19
Zanzibar Lounge is a small and stylish bar and restaurant in the heart of Pontcanna serving classic dishes such as rich lamb shank. The staff are helpful and knowledgeable, and can talk through the menu with ease. Zanzibar also puts on a number of regular events such as live music, entertainment and live sports on TV. The early bird menu is accessible for all budgets.
Looks like it's closedHours or services may be impacted due to Covid-19
The Conway is a gastro pub with a decent range of beers and ales on tap. The service is good, the menu is varied and inventive (try the roasted salmon with beetroot), and the prices won’t break the bank. Popular with locals, The Conway features a cosy bar and an outdoor seating area. The menu changes regularly and their food is popular. Book ahead, though, as the place gets very busy.
