The 15 best restaurants in Cardiff for 2025

As Cardiff’s first Michelin star restaurant, it’s only fair to expect big things from Gorse. The Pontcanna spot opened in May 2024 and earned its star a little less than a year later. But don’t be afraid of any pretentious pomp and show here – Gorse’s charm lies in its low-key elegance, calm confidence and, naturally, its Welsh pride. With just 22 covers and a kitchen that’s fully out in the open (it almost feels like you’re in someone’s private living room), Tom Waters and his small team of chefs are beautifully composed as they add a glossy finish to their fresh parker house rolls, top their caramelly Welsh kelp custard with a dainty pile of caviar and plate up their cannelé made with whiskey from Bannau Brycheinog’s Penderyn distillery. A four-course lunch will set you back £60, or you can go the whole hog and indulge in a 10-course tasting menu for £125. This place is surprisingly homely, a little playful and wildly delicious – it’s the finest Cardiff has to offer.

When someone asks where you should go in Cardiff for something special, you tell them Heaneys. Those are the rules. This fine dining spot opened back in 2018, serving up seasonal tasting menus and an extensive wine list using local ingredients - many of which are from their own garden. The menu changes frequently, obviously, but we’ve spotted the likes of scallop roe hash browns on the menu before, alongside deer with truffle wellington, scallop with lardo and trout with black radish. Service is impeccable too, and there’s no rushing here - ideal for a long lunch with a group.

Recognised as the first dedicated ramen shop in Wales, this Grangetown joint is buzzing with friendly, knowledgeable staff who will help you pile high on sumptuous noodles, broth, and toppings. Matsudai Ramen regularly hosts takeover events with renowned chefs and foodie figures, as well as stocking freezable DIY kits, so that fans can craft their favourites at home. Try the creamy tori paitan, and save space for the karaage mushroom, which is served with vegan curry mayo.

This Pontcanna pearler describes itself as an independent modern Welsh bistro, and a more accurate description may not exist. There is a homely quality to Milkwood that has made it as popular with neighbourhood residents as hungry businessmen, proving again that good food is the thing that unites all strands of society. Milkwood is predominantly a brunch venue, although the small plates and cocktails on offer on Friday and Saturday are well worth a try. There’s a lot to love about Pontcanna, and Milkwood deserves its place on that long list.

Come here to sample all Welsh everything at one of Cardiff’s buzziest spots. Wales is blessed with incredible ingredients, and appreciation for that produce is taken to new levels at delightful Daffodil. Everything on the menu is seasonal, bringing an old-fashioned feeling of respect to what is simply delicious food. The wine list is pretty darn good, and the gorgeous decor rounds off the offer.

Looking for a gorgeous bite to eat after exploring the Principality Stadium? Head to Asador 44, a Spanish Grill and Wine Bar that transports diners to the many provinces of spectacular Spain. It remains very much a part of Cardiff, of course, but Asador 44 offers something different to the foodies descending on the Welsh capital. Oenophiles will be in love with the wine list.

With a commitment to responsible sourcing, as well as creating new opportunities for young, bright culinary talent, The Classroom is distinct in its concept and approach. Perched on top of the central Cardiff and Vale College, it’s here where culinary students are offered the opportunity to ply their trade alongside seasoned professionals. Their regularly-updated set menu celebrates modern British cuisine; educating people on how to eat and cook more sustainably without ever compromising on flavour.

‘Indo-Italian’ fusion? Yep, you read that right. This newly-opened gem (which opened its doors in December 2024) is which is run by the owners of the neighbouring Vivo Amigo, which mixes Mexican and Indian flavours – offers up oodles of cross-cuisine delights. Stella Italia knocks out a saag aloo calzone to perfection, while also serving up pasta that incorporates delectable curry sauces, from butter chicken to paneer makhani. 

There is a celebratory nature to traditional Indian food that is often overlooked, but that certainly isn’t the case at Purple Poppadom. This is a restaurant that takes its food seriously but is fully aware of the social and triumphal nature of good gastronomy. A frequent winner of awards (including the UK’s Best South Asian Restaurant gong) and never far away from the attentions of the eyes (and mouths) of the Michelin Guide, Purple Poppadom is a joyous journey into the many flavours of the Subcontinent.

Llandaff is one of the most enchanting parts of Cardiff, and The Heathcock may well be its finest place to stop for a bite to eat. Of course, you’ll struggle to stay here for just one bite, as this place seems to have mastered the art of the moreish bite, best enjoyed through its sharing plates. The menu changes daily but always keeps its proverbial eyes focused on the seasons, making for fresh as anything dishes and a real sense of the present. A champagne and oyster bar is above for those after something a little more opulent.