Discover 18 fantastic dining spots just an hour from Cardiff that are sure to impress
Cardiff: While the food scene in Cardiff has really stepped up, sometimes it’s nice to explore a bit further for a great meal. There are loads of fantastic spots just outside the city that serve everything from street food to Michelin-star dishes, all in stunning settings.
We’ve put together a list of places that are totally worth the drive for lunch or dinner. If you’re planning a special night out but don’t want to be the designated driver, many of these places are easy to reach by taxi or public transport.
This year has been a big one for Welsh restaurants, with many getting recognized in the Food Award Wales 2024. Plus, over ten Welsh spots made it to the Good Food Guide’s best in Britain list. And let’s not forget, Thomas by Tom Simmons in Cardiff snagged the title of Restaurant of the Year at the AA Hospitality Awards. If you want to stay in the loop about the latest food news, don’t forget to sign up for our food and drink newsletter!
Now, let’s dive into some of the best places to eat around Cardiff. You won’t regret it!
1. Blok, Talbot Green
Located in a charming 18th-century manor house, Blok offers a cozy yet elegant dining experience. They serve up premium cuts of meat and locally sourced ingredients. Don’t miss their katsu croquettes!
Lanelay Hall Hotel, Lanelay Lane, Talbot Green, CF72 9LA
2. Llanerch Vineyard, Hensol
This beautiful vineyard in the Vale of Glamorgan has a lovely rooftop terrace where you can sip wine with a view. Their two AA Rosette restaurant serves everything from Sunday roasts to afternoon tea.
Hensol, Vale of Glamorgan, CF72 8GG
3. Mint and Mustard, Penarth
Just a short drive from Cardiff, this award-winning Indian restaurant has a new brunch menu featuring tasty options like chicken naan wraps and tandoori salmon bowls.
33-34 Windsor Terrace, Penarth, CF64 1AB
4. Bab Haus, Caerphilly
Known for their amazing street food, Bab Haus has a spot in Caerphilly where you can grab everything from burrito bowls to huge burgers. Perfect for a casual meal!
Unit 20 Ffos Caerffili, Park Lane, Caerphilly, CF83 1BN
5. Keyif, Penarth
Shortlisted as one of the best kebab houses in Britain, Keyif offers a unique Turkish dining experience with grilled dishes cooked on a special wood-charcoal grill.
21 Glebe Street, Penarth, CF64 1EE
6. The Black Rabbit, Laleston
This casual dining spot, created by chef Jonathan Lewis, is open for dinner and Sunday lunch. It’s won awards for its gastro pub offerings, so you know it’s good!
7. Grand Sultan, Margam
With a long list of accolades, including Curry Restaurant of the Year, Grand Sultan is a must-visit for curry lovers. Their menu is packed with delicious options.
Water St, Eglwys Nunydd, Port Talbot SA13 2PA
8. Gem 42, Newport
Named ‘Outstanding Restaurant of the Year’ at Food Awards Wales, Gem 42 offers a mind-blowing dining experience with dishes like Wagyu beef and unique desserts.
42 Bridge St, Newport NP20 4NY
9. Janet’s Authentic Northern Chinese, Pontypridd
If you’re into Asian cuisine, Janet’s is a must-try. Her family recipe-inspired dishes are some of the best around!
3 Market Building, Church Street, Pontypridd, CF372TH
10. The Priory Hotel and Restaurant, Caerleon
This historic building has been revamped and now features a menu of Spanish-influenced dishes cooked over fire. They’re even planning a cheese and wine tasting room!
High Street, Caerleon, NP18 1AG
11. The Gaff, Abergavenny
Located in Abergavenny, The Gaff serves creative small plates with high-quality ingredients. The atmosphere is bright and airy, perfect for a lovely meal.
Unit 4 The Courtyard, Lion St, Abergavenny NP7 5PE
12. Home, Penarth
With a dark, moody interior and a Michelin star, Home offers a surprise tasting menu that changes with the seasons. Each visit is a new experience!
Royal buildings, Penarth CF64 3EB
13. Harry’s, Cowbridge
This cozy bistro serves up hearty local meat dishes and is perfect for breakfast or brunch. It’s a hidden gem on Cowbridge’s high street.
2 Westgate, Cowbridge, CF71 7AR
14. Marble, Bridgend
Marble focuses on cooking meats over fire, with a menu that includes hand-picked steaks and global influences. It’s been nominated for best new restaurant!
Unit 24, The Rhiw, Bridgend, CF31 3BL
15. Newport Market Food Quarter
Since its redevelopment, Newport Market has become a foodie hotspot with various traders serving up delicious dishes. It’s a great place to explore!
High Street, Newport, NP20 1FX
16. Casa Bianca, Merthyr Tydfil
This Italian restaurant features stunning interiors and dishes influenced by southern Italian cuisine. The pork medallions are a must-try!
119 High Street, Merthyr Tydfil CF47 8BL
17. Goodsheds, Barry
Goodsheds is a vibrant spot with a mix of traders serving up some of the best street food in Wales. It’s a fun place to hang out!
Hood Road, Barry, Vale of Glamorgan, CF62 5QU
18. One O’Clock Gate, Dinas Powys
This cafe transforms into an Asian fusion restaurant on weekends, offering a menu full of bold, vibrant dishes. Their Korean fried chicken burger is a favorite!
Dinas Powys Golf Club, Highwalls Rd, Dinas Powys CF64 4A
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your friends and hit the road for some amazing food!
