£££spanish
Inside Parador 44, a boutique hotel offering a taste of Iberia in the Welsh capital, sits this dark and moody restaurant. It's divided into multiple wood-clad areas, with the best spots overlooking the asador grill or the glass-fronted wine cave. The menu has a focus on cooking over fire, with the likes of squid, celeriac and rump steak getting the charcoal treatment – whichever you choose, ensure you start with the boquerones with yuzu dressing. The wine list is almost exclusively Spanish, with fascinating choices from some little-known producers.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.0/5 · 80 reviews
Asador 44 in Cardiff offers authentic Spanish cuisine with an average rating of 4.0/5. Positive reviews highlight excellent service, pleasant atmosphere, and specific dishes like pork rillette and duck confit. Staff are often described as knowledgeable and attentive. However, negative feedback frequently cites inconsistent food quality, including overly salty meals, tough meat, and poor pacing. Some diners found the value lacking relative to the price, with reports of gristle in steaks and high costs for shared items. While the modern, cozy ambiance is appreciated, the variability in food preparation and perceived expense remain significant drawbacks for some visitors.
Suitable for diners seeking authentic Spanish flavors who are less price-sensitive and can tolerate occasional inconsistencies in food quality.
£££Modern British
Set within an impressive, modish hotel, this elegant, brasserie-style spot boasts leather banquettes, attentive staff and a wide-ranging menu of British dishes. Smoked octopus would be a great way to start, while for main course Welsh beef is a real feature of the menu, whether it's steak and ale pie or Chateaubriand to share – and if you're celebrating a special occasion, consider the signature beef Wellington experience. If you've got a sweet tooth, finish with the tarte Tatin which is big enough to share... not that you'll want to.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.2/5 · 80 reviews
The Sorting Room, located in Cardiff's Parkgate Hotel, offers Modern British cuisine. Reviews highlight high food quality, professional service, and a sophisticated atmosphere, with staff like Massimiliano and Mo frequently praised. The wine list is also well-regarded. However, inconsistencies exist; some guests report poor meal pacing, slow service, or unfriendly attitudes, particularly in the bar area. Negative feedback cites low value for money, citing a £58 Beef Wellington as mediocre, and disappointment when pre-booked set menus were unavailable. With an average TripAdvisor rating of 4.2/5 based on 80 reviews, experiences vary significantly. Diners should verify menu availability and service expectations in advance.
Suitable for diners seeking refined meals who can tolerate service variability; confirm set menu availability in advance.
£££Modern British
Hidden away in the leafy suburbs of Cardiff, this is a true neighbourhood restaurant which continues to develop and evolve. Begin with a cocktail in the spacious, formal bar, before taking a seat in the cosy downstairs or moody first-floor dining room. Proud Welshman Tom Simmons is at the helm, bringing his love of local produce to bear in technically impressive, full-flavoured dishes built on the likes of Pembrokeshire oysters and saddle of Welsh lamb. Whatever you order, be sure to start with some superb sourdough from their own bakery, Ground.
££Modern British
There’s a welcome brightness to this neighbourhood restaurant in one of Cardiff’s foodie suburbs. The simple décor includes light-wood furnishings and a white-topped counter, ensuring a clean, uncluttered feel. The cooking has a similarly straightforward ethos, looking fairly pared-back on the plate, but packing a punch in its flavours. Seasonal British ingredients and a notable Italian influence guide the menu, leading to daily made focaccia and a choice of pasta dishes – such as spaghetti topped with lovely red mullet.
£££Modern Cuisine
Arrive early for a cocktail in the bar of well-known Chef Tommy Heaney’s stylishly laid-back suburban restaurant. Dishes are seasonal and modern, with some sophisticated contrasts; the set lunch menu delivers good value while, at dinner, the tasting menu takes centre stage. Next door is Uisce – his no-reservations, small plates restaurant – which showcases herbs and vegetables from the pretty kitchen garden.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.0/5 · 80 reviews
Heaneys in Pontcanna, Cardiff, offers modern cuisine with generally high praise for food quality. The eight-course tasting menu and Sunday lunch are highlighted for their exquisite presentation and rich flavors, with dishes like cuttlefish pasta standing out. Service is frequently commended as professional, attentive, and efficient, even during mishaps. The atmosphere is described as pleasant. However, some guests question the value, citing high costs relative to portions, while others noted inconsistent meat tenderness and limited vegan options. The fixed-menu format may not suit all diners.
Ideal for diners seeking refined modern cuisine and attentive service, though vegans and those preferring flexible menus should consider their preferences.
££american
Within the Pontcanna Laundry development in one of the city’s most food-loving suburbs, this fun and friendly restaurant could easily become a neighbourhood go-to. Faux-industrial touches decorate the room along with fridges bursting with ageing prime meats. You can therefore expect to find steaks and homemade sausages on the regularly changing menu, alongside other ingredient-led dishes such as giant Atlantic king prawns with a smooth shellfish bisque. Be sure to order the profiteroles with a Cointreau-laced chocolate and caramel sauce to finish.
🕐 We-Su 08:30-17:00
£££Modern Cuisine
The Welsh word ‘hiræth’ has no direct translation, but it broadly refers to the pride and longing the Welsh feel for their homeland. That ethos comes through at this likeable little restaurant, thanks to the use of regional produce including locally foraged ingredients and some from their own smallholding. The cooking comes in a tasting menu format, with dishes flying highest when emphasising the quality of their ingredients, like sous-vide skrei cod with a mussel and wild garlic velouté. The team show pride in their work and will ensure you are well looked after.
TripAdvisor review sample · 5.0/5 · 75 reviews
Hiræth in Cardiff offers modern cuisine with a perfect 5.0/5 average from 75 reviews. Praise centers on exceptional food quality, attentive service, and a warm atmosphere. The open kitchen allows guests to watch preparations, while chefs personally explain each dish. The tasting menu highlights creative, locally sourced seasonal ingredients with intricate presentation. Although minor criticisms exist regarding pacing and value, the overall experience is highly rated. The restaurant provides a sophisticated yet welcoming environment, making it a notable fine dining option in Cardiff.
Ideal for food enthusiasts seeking high-quality modern cuisine and an immersive dining experience.