£££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.
££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
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.
£££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.
£££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.
£££Regional Cuisine
There's a charmingly rustic feel to this smartly run rural inn close to the Victorian market town of Usk. A white-washed exterior, log-burning stove and wooden beams all add to the appeal, while the chefs do their part with a concise menu of well-executed, classically based cuisine. The fish cookery is a particular highlight, as evidenced by dishes like hake with a terrific butter sauce and capers. Everything is made in-house, including the ice creams and sorbets for dessert.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.6/5 · 80 reviews
The Black Bear Inn in Usk serves regional cuisine with an average rating of 4.6/5 from 80 reviews. Food quality is a primary strength, with diners praising dishes like pork, cod, venison, and deep-fried mussels for their taste and presentation. However, some negative feedback highlights issues with meal pacing and occasional inconsistencies, such as overcooked or small portions of scallops. Service is generally described as friendly, knowledgeable, and accommodating, including arranging outdoor seating. The atmosphere offers a warm environment with garden areas and indoor log fires. While most visitors find good value, a minority criticize rising prices and note that the experience can be diminished by slow service or unmet expectations regarding portion sizes.
Suitable for diners seeking authentic regional cuisine and a cozy rural atmosphere, with advance booking recommended.
££Traditional British
Experienced Chef-Owner Jonathan Woolway worked in London for many years before returning home to his beloved Wales to open this industrial-style restaurant by the former docks. His patriotic side comes out in the use of terrific local produce, along with a none-more-Welsh lamb, leek and laverbread pie to share. The other dishes too, from Mangalitsa brawn to a Welsh rarebit on the side, are hearty, traditional and decidedly unfussy.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.1/5 · 80 reviews
The Shed in Sketty offers traditional British cuisine focusing on fresh local produce. Food quality is generally praised, with oysters, duck, and innovative dishes like venison heart receiving high marks, though inconsistencies exist regarding lamb preparation, overpowering sauces, and excessive saltiness. Service is typically friendly and attentive, despite occasional delays or errors. The atmosphere is relaxed and suitable for casual dining. Value perceptions vary significantly; while some find it reasonable, others cite high wine prices and limited, overpriced vegetarian options as drawbacks.
Suitable for diners seeking local flavors and a relaxed vibe; check wine prices and vegetarian options in advance.
£££Modern British
A personal welcome from chef-owners Chris and Adam is just one of the charms of this sweet little restaurant hidden away in the Swansea suburbs. The passion and pride of the team comes across not just in the friendly service, but in the carefully prepared dishes centred around seasonally changing ingredients – whether that be fresh crab with watermelon or pan-fried sea bass with butter-poached lobster. Choose from the concise à la carte or opt for the tasting menu for the full experience, accompanied by a well-priced wine pairing.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.9/5 · 80 reviews
Slice in Sketty offers modern British cuisine with consistently high ratings. Food quality is the standout feature, praised for its presentation, fresh ingredients like scallops and pork, and exceptional tasting menus, though isolated reports mention occasional texture issues. Service is generally warm and accommodating, effectively handling allergies and dietary needs, yet some guests note pacing inconsistencies. The intimate, cozy atmosphere suits small groups, but the compact space with hard surfaces can amplify noise. While most find the experience worthwhile, a minority question the value. It is best suited for diners prioritizing culinary excellence and personalized service over large-scale ambiance.
Ideal for diners prioritizing culinary innovation and personalized service in an intimate setting.
££Modern British
Located on the edge of the Brecon Beacons National Park, warmth and character abound at this traditional pub. Relax on a sofa beside the fire with a pint of local beer, then head for the Library or Snug to dine. The organic kitchen garden provides herbs, fruit and vegetables for simple, unfussy dishes that don’t attempt to reinvent the wheel, but are simply a joy to eat – such as cod and fondant potatoes with beurre blanc. Cosy bedrooms come with good extras and are dog friendly.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.5/5 · 80 reviews
Felin Fach Griffin holds a 4.5/5 rating on TripAdvisor based on 80 reviews. Positive feedback highlights high food quality, attentive service, and a cozy atmosphere. Diners appreciate the use of local, fresh ingredients and imaginative presentation, with dishes like duck parfait and crab risotto receiving praise. The venue offers a welcoming environment with outdoor seating and pet-friendly policies, ideal for winter walks. However, criticisms include inconsistent meal pacing, limited vegetarian options, and occasional underwhelming mains such as battered fish. Some guests found the automatic service charge unjustified, while others reported issues with Sunday lunch beef being too fatty or thinly sliced. Overall, it is a modern British pub with generally high standards but variable execution.
Suitable for diners seeking a cozy rural atmosphere and refined modern British cuisine, though checking menu options and service details in advance is advised.
££Modern British
This 17C stone farmhouse sits on a bank of the River Wye and is run by a friendly couple. Its simple, rustic interior comprises a spacious lounge and a cosy, welcoming restaurant with an inglenook fireplace. The gutsy, modern British cooking has a classic French backbone and the odd Italian or Asian touch. Booking is essential and the menu is sent a day in advance for pre-ordering. Bedrooms are comfortable and some have river views.
££Traditional British
There’s a rustic charm to this beautifully restored Victorian inn, where they make excellent use of the surrounding estate. The generous dishes are powered by organic produce from their own farm, which is then turned into a mixture of traditional and modern pub food. Expect the likes of day-boat fish, pie of the day and a choice of steaks – plus a roast lunch on Sundays, of course. A fire-lit lounge and 11 pleasant, relaxing bedrooms complete the package, making it ideal for exploring the beauty of Exmoor.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.5/5 · 80 reviews
The Exmoor Forest Inn in Exford offers traditional British cuisine with an average rating of 4.5/5. Reviews highlight high food quality, particularly for Sunday roasts and breakfast, with specific mentions of dishes like peach and tomato salad. The atmosphere is characterized by historic charm and elegance, and the inn is pet-friendly. Service is generally praised as friendly and efficient, though some guests reported slow pacing, unfriendly staff interactions, or discrepancies regarding booking information. While a few negative comments cited small portions or billing issues, most visitors found the experience valuable and the accommodation comfortable.
Suitable for travelers seeking traditional British cuisine, comfortable accommodation, and a pet-friendly environment.
£££French
This is the kind of friendly neighbourhood bistro that warms your soul and widens your smile, where you will be warmly welcomed by a relaxed team who swiftly put you at ease. The menu wears its French heart on its sleeve, with the likes of soufflé Suissesse to start and prune and armagnac tart to finish; across the board, the well-executed dishes are fresh, rustic and pack in plenty of flavour. If you've come in a pair, go for one of the enticing sharing dishes, such as côte de boeuf with frites.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.0/5 · 80 reviews
LittleFrench in Bristol holds a 4.0/5 average rating. Food quality is polarizing; while dishes like duck, aligot, and snails receive praise, others report undercooked kidneys, overpowering soufflés, and thin sauces. Service is generally attentive and accommodating, though isolated incidents of poor responsiveness occur. The ambiance is typically warm and suitable for celebrations, yet smoke issues have detracted from some experiences. Value is debated; many find it expensive relative to portions and quality, suggesting it may not suit budget-conscious diners despite its Michelin-star aspirations.
Suitable for diners seeking refined French cuisine regardless of cost, with prior preference checks recommended.
£££Modern British
In the old part of the city close to the famous docks you’ll find this intimate, personally run, 2-room restaurant, with a small front terrace, a warm service team and a buzzing atmosphere. The two menus – most diners plump for the tasting menu – offer original, modern and sometimes intricate dishes, which are aesthetically striking and full of flavour.
£££European
Deep within the Georgian lanes of Clifton, lies this neighbourhood bistro with an uncluttered feel. Sit on the ground floor to make the most of the natural light flooding in the large windows, or head down the spiral staircase for a more intimate setting. The date-stamped menu takes a pan-European approach, be it ricotta gnudi from Italy, squid ink bomba rice from Spain or veal schnitzel from Austria. The relaxed service is delivered with a smile and sharing dishes like whole roast chicken add to the conviviality.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.0/5 · 66 reviews
Located in Clifton, Bristol, 1 York Place offers European cuisine with generally positive feedback regarding food quality, friendly service, and a relaxing atmosphere. Guests frequently praise the martinis and Sunday roasts. However, significant criticism centers on value for money, with many finding prices high relative to the portion size or quality. Some reviewers note inconsistent food standards, slow pacing, and cramped table spacing. While the ambiance and staff knowledge are highlighted as strengths, the overall experience is polarized by perceptions of cost versus quality, making it a venue where diners should manage expectations regarding pricing.
Suitable for diners prioritizing ambiance and service over strict budget constraints.
££Mediterranean Cuisine
This unique restaurant boasts a charming and highly enviable location, directly overlooking a restored Victorian lido. Snack on small plates in the poolside bar, or head up to the first-floor former viewing gallery, where the retractable floor-to-ceiling doors and Mediterranean-inspired cooking will have you feeling like you're on holiday. Dishes such as wood-roasted Devon scallops with garlic butter and sweet herbs look simple but are full of bright, fresh flavours thanks to the quality of the ingredients and the skill of the chefs.
TripAdvisor review sample · 3.4/5 · 80 reviews
Lido Restaurant in Bristol offers Mediterranean cuisine within a unique urban lido setting. Reviews highlight a polarized experience: while some guests praise the stylish atmosphere, friendly staff, and value of combined swim-and-dine packages, significant criticism targets inconsistent food quality, citing tough meat and bland flavors. Service issues, including rude greetings and poor pacing, further detract from the experience. Although the venue is visually appealing and suitable for social gatherings, the core dining experience is unreliable, requiring visitors to weigh the novelty of the location against potential culinary disappointments.
Suitable for travelers seeking a unique poolside dining experience with flexible expectations regarding food quality.
£££Korean
Bristol’s lovers of Korean food have found their haven in this charmingly run restaurant in the trendy Redland neighbourhood. The authentic cooking can be sampled as either a set menu or an à la carte of sharing plates, where each dish is cooked with care and precision using high-quality produce. The dishes from the charcoal grill – such as samgyeopsal (grilled pork belly) – are particularly enjoyable, thanks to the superb accompanying condiments that are expertly spiced and fermented to bring extra layers of flavour to the central ingredients.
£££Modern Cuisine
The experienced chef-owners named their first restaurant after their old home. Sit at the chef's table to watch all the action or at the far end of the L-shaped room overlooking the quay. Attractively presented, well-balanced modern dishes are sometimes brought to the tables by the chefs themselves.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.6/5 · 80 reviews
Adelina Yard is praised for its modern cuisine, with guests highlighting exceptional food quality, attentive service, and a welcoming atmosphere. Diners appreciate the complex flavors and textures, alongside professional sommelier recommendations. However, some reviews note issues with meal pacing, uncomfortable seating, and dated decor. Guests with allergies report limited gluten-free or dairy-free options that are not priced lower. While generally well-regarded, isolated complaints regarding booking changes and value suggest it suits those prioritizing culinary artistry over absolute comfort or strict dietary accommodations.
Recommended for diners prioritizing innovative cuisine and wine pairings over seating comfort.
££Traditional Cuisine
Nestled in a lush valley bordered by the Black Mountains, this former drovers' inn is separated from Hay-on-Wye by a six-mile single-track road. It retains a homely charm, boasting flagstone floors, slate walls and open fires. Unfussy, ingredient-led cooking is natural, wholesome and full of flavour, with meats from the owners’ farm, homemade charcuterie and a traditional roast on Sundays. Low intervention wines feature alongside a fine selection of beers. Book one of the cabins to allow more time for countryside exploring.
TripAdvisor review sample · 3.8/5 · 80 reviews
The Bull's Head in Marsden offers traditional cuisine with an average TripAdvisor rating of 3.8/5. Positive reviews highlight friendly service, a pet-welcoming atmosphere, and scenic valley views, with specific praise for Sunday roasts and daily specials. Conversely, negative feedback points to inconsistent food quality, including undercooked steak, raw onion rings, and undersized burgers. Service issues involve slow pacing, unprofessional staff behavior, and incorrect cutlery. While some visitors appreciate the cozy ambiance, others report declining standards and poor value, indicating a polarized customer experience.
Suitable for travelers seeking a traditional country pub atmosphere who are flexible regarding consistent food quality.
££Modern Cuisine
Featuring stunning views over the eponymous valley, this aptly named former pub now operates more as a restaurant, with a lengthy refurbishment expanding its scope to include an orangery dining room and a cookery school. The menu uses the seasons as a guide and showcases produce from the kitchen garden in vibrant, colourful dishes which mix creative and a few traditional elements – look out for the 'Pony Garden Salad' that comes as an extra course at dinner. The midweek set menu offers great value for money.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.1/5 · 80 reviews
The Pony Chew Valley offers modern cuisine with spectacular views, praised for food quality, friendly service, and a warm atmosphere. However, negative feedback highlights issues such as tough steak, under-seasoned dishes, and small portions. Value is contentious, with some guests finding it poor due to extra charges and pricing transparency concerns. Meal pacing varies, sometimes resulting in rushed service. While the venue hosts weddings and cookery classes, inconsistencies in food texture and service efficiency impact the overall experience, making satisfaction dependent on specific visits.
Suitable for diners prioritizing views and modern cuisine who can tolerate service variability.