Cardiff Bay, Butetown and Grangetown form one of the city's most varied dining corridors. Mermaid Quay supplies waterfront restaurants for theatre nights and celebrations, Dumballs Road has a remarkable training restaurant, and the streets west of the Taff lead to long-established family kitchens. The best meal depends as much on atmosphere and timing as cuisine, so this guide ranges from sushi and Thai sharing plates to Indian thalis, French brasserie cooking and traditional Italian food.
The three districts reward different plans. Mermaid Quay is easiest when a meal needs to fit around a performance, cinema visit or walk along the barrage, and its terraces are at their best on a clear afternoon. Butetown and the Dumballs Road side of the area offer quieter, more distinctive dining, while Grangetown is worth the short journey for neighbourhood restaurants with a stronger sense of place. Allow extra time on event nights, when waterside tables fill quickly and the approaches to the Bay become busy. Families will find flexible menus around Mermaid Quay, but couples and keen food lovers should also look beyond the waterfront for the more personal rooms and focused regional cooking.
Choose according to the day you have planned. Yakitori1 and Giggling Squid make the waterfront feel celebratory, The Classroom deserves a reservation built around its seasonal calendar, and Merola's asks diners to travel slightly inland for old-school hospitality. Vegetarian Food Studio is the most focused destination for meat-free dining, while Côte, Cosy Club, Las Iguanas, Zizzi and Hub Box cover different versions of flexible group eating. Several places offer outdoor seating, but the strongest choice still comes from matching the kitchen and pace to the occasion.
Yakitori1
Yakitori1 is the strongest all-round choice at Mermaid Quay when fresh Japanese cooking matters more than a generic waterfront view. The independent restaurant covers sushi, sashimi, tempura, grilled skewers and noodle dishes, yet the menu feels coherent rather than overextended. Its bright dining room and shareable format work equally well for a quick lunch, a relaxed date or a group that wants to order across several styles.
Begin with gyoza or soft-shell crab tempura, then contrast a crisp fried dish with cleanly cut nigiri and a grilled skewer. The sushi selection is broad enough for a dedicated platter, while yakisoba, fried rice and teriyaki dishes give non-sushi diners a proper meal. Recent feedback is especially strong on freshness and friendly service, though portions can feel modest on some dishes, so a mixed order usually makes the most satisfying experience.
Address: Unit 10, Mermaid Quay, Cardiff CF10 5BZ, United Kingdom
Yakitori1 Menu
Skewers
Grilled over a traditional robata flame, served with fresh spring onions and peppers.
Chicken
Marinated with teriyaki sauce
Beef fillet
Marinated with soy, mirin and sake
Tiger prawns
Marinated with soy, sesame and citrus ponzu
Sweet potato (v)
Marinated with a miso glaze
Robata nigiri
3 pieces, grilled over a traditional robata flame, served with blow-torched sushi rice.
Surf ‘n’ turf
Grilled scallop, prime beef fillet and tiger prawn marinated with sesame, soy and mirin, topped with tobiko
Beef fillet
Teppanyaki grilled prime beef fillet with a soy, sesame and sake drizzle
Scallop yuzu
Grilled scallops with a yuzu lemon drizzle, topped with tobiko
Flamed nigiri
2 pieces, served with bite-sized sushi rice.
Prawn tempura
Lightly-battered tiger prawns with Japanese mayo
Salmon teriyaki
Blow-torched salmon with a teriyaki glaze
Tuna
Blow-torched tuna marinated with yuzu lemon, soy and sesame, topped with tobiko
Sea bass
Blow-torched sea bass marinated with yuzu lemon, soy and sesame, topped with tobiko
Hamachi
Blow-torched Japanese yellowtail marinated with yuzu lemon, soy and sesame, topped with tobiko
Unagi teriyaki
Blow-torched eel with a teriyaki glaze
Yakitori 1 flamed nigiri special
10 pieces: 2 salmon, 2 tuna, 2 sea bass, 2 prawn tempura, 2 unagi
A little something
Looking to share or feeling extra hungry? Order a little something to start or perhaps share three sides between two, alongside your main meal.
Crispy prawn & chicken parcels
3 handmade parcels with lime and ginger, served with a sweet chilli sauce
Chicken gyoza
5 fried dumplings packed with flavour, served with a sweet chilli sauce
Vegetable gyoza (v)
5 fried dumplings packed with flavour, served with a sweet chilli sauce
Classic miso soup, small (v)
with fresh tofu, spring onions and seaweed
Seafood miso soup, large
with tiger prawn, salmon, crab stick, seaweed and fresh tofu
Edamame (v)
Green soybeans with sea salt and chilli flakes
Tempura
Light crispy batter, served with a traditional tentsuyu dipping sauce - soy sauce, mirin and sweet rice wine. Share one between two alongside your main meal, or get one for yourself if you’re feeling extra hungry!
Tiger prawns
with a tentsuyu dipping sauce
Soft-shell crab
Whole crab, served with homemade wasabi mayo
Veggie combo (v)
Aubergine, peppers, sweet potato and shiitake mushrooms, served with a tentsuyu dipping sauce
Aubergine miso (v)
with a sesame miso drizzle
Agedashi tofu (v)
with fresh spring onions and a soy and sesame dressing
Tofu kare (v)
with a katsu curry sauce
Salads
Mixed leaves, tomatoes, sunflower seeds, red onion, avocado, edamame and goji berries with a sesame dressing.
Crispy sesame chicken
Lightly-battered tempura sesame chicken
Wakame tofu (v)
Lightly-battered tempura tofu and sesame seaweed
Maki
Inside out rolls
Dragon roll
Crunchy prawn tempura, cucumber, avocado, Japanese mayo and tobiko
Chicken teriyaki
Grilled chicken teriyaki, avocado, cucumber, spring onions, crispy onions and homemade wasabi mayo
Spider
Whole tempura soft-shell crab, avocado, cucumber and tobiko
Torched salmon teriyaki
Blow-torched salmon, avocado, cucumber, crab stick, topped with a teriyaki drizzle, chives and tobiko
Firecracker (spicy!)
Spicy salmon, avocado, chives, sriracha sauce and chilli flakes
Tuna kamikaze (spicy!)
Spicy tuna, cucumber, crab stick, chives, chilli and tobiko
Salmon avocado
Salmon, avocado, cucumber, crab stick, tobiko and homemade wasabi mayo
Rainbow
Prawn, salmon, tuna, hamachi, avocado, crab stick, cucumber and tobiko
Duck & plum
Grilled duck, cucumber, spring onions and a plum sauce
Unagi
Grilled teriyaki eel, cucumber, crab stick, sesame and spring onions
Green field (v)
Shiitake mushrooms, avocado, wakame seaweed, spring onions and crispy onions
Summer lovin’ (v)
Avocado, mango, cucumber, spring onions and crispy onions
Nigiri & sashimi
NIGIRI | 2 pieces, SASHIMI | 5 pieces
Salmon
Tuna
Sea bass
Hamachi
Japanese yellowtail
Sake yuzu
Seared salmon with yuzu lemon and sesame
Prawn
Inari tofu (v)
Avocado (v)
with seaweed and a sesame dressing
Yakitori 1 nigiri special
Serves 2; 10 pieces: 2 salmon, 2 tuna, 2 hamachi, 2 prawn and 2 Inari tofu
Yakitori 1 sashimi salad
Serves 1; Chef’s selection of mixed sashimi and tempura tofu served with mixed leaves, tomatoes, sunflower seeds, onions, avocado, edamame and goji berries with a sesame dressing
Yakitori 1 sashimi special
Serves 2; 15 pieces: salmon, tuna, hamachi
Rice paper rolls
Light, refreshing rolls with fresh crunchy vegetables.
Crispy sweet chilli chicken
with lettuce, radish, cucumber and a sweet chilli sauce
Prawn tempura
with spinach, cucumber, radish, avocado and a sesame sauce
Duck & plum
with cucumber, lettuce, spring onions and a plum sauce
Redemption (v)
Avocado, shiitake mushrooms, lettuce, sunflower seeds, sweet potato, goji berries and wakame seaweed with a sesame sauce
Veggie frutti (v)
Avocado, mango, goji berries, spinach and cucumber with a sesame sauce
Hosomaki
8 small, bite-sized rolls
Salmon
Tuna
Crab stick
Avocado (v)
Cucumber (v)
From the wok
Wok-fried rice and noodles sizzling from the grill, packed with flavour, tossed with crunchy vegetables. Pick rice or noodles! Pick your protein!
Cha han
Fried sticky rice, snow peas, peppers, carrots, spring onions, shallots and egg, served with miso soup
Yaki soba
Fried egg noodles, snow peas, peppers, bean sprouts, green leaves, carrots, spring onions, shallots
Chicken karaage
Japanese fried chicken with a sesame and teriyaki drizzle
Beef fillet
Teppanyaki grilled beef fillet with a soy, mirin and sake sauce
Tiger prawns
Grilled tiger prawns with a sesame dressing
Salmon teriyaki
Grilled salmon fillet with a teriyaki drizzle
Duck
Grilled duck with a plum sauce drizzle
Shiitake & tofu (v)
Shiitake mushrooms, tempura tofu and wakame seaweed
Curries
Medium-heat curries slowly infused with fresh herbs and spices for a rich and intense flavour.
Chicken katsu
Chicken breast dipped in panko crumbs, served with sticky rice, tempura sweet potato and fresh green salad leaves
Beef kare raisu
Teppanyaki grilled prime beef fillet, served with sticky rice, sweet potato, snow peas and fresh green salad leaves
Vegetable kare (v)
Shiitake mushrooms, aubergine, peppers, snow peas and sweet potato, served with sticky rice
Ramen
Ramen noodles in a chicken, vegetable and miso broth with snow peas, peppers, spinach, bean sprouts, spring onions, and fried shallots.
Chicken karaage
Japanese fried chicken
Beef fillet
Marinated with soy, mirin and sake
Duck
Marinated with mirin and sake
Seafood combo
Grilled tiger prawns and sashimi grade salmon
Veggie combo (v)
Shiitake mushrooms, aubergine, spring onions and crispy onions in a vegetarian miso broth
Lunch Special
£12.95 per person. Choose one from each section: Maki, From the wok (pick rice or noodles and protein), and Curries.
Dragon roll
Crunchy prawn tempura, cucumber, avocado, Japanese mayo and tobiko
Chicken teriyaki
Grilled chicken teriyaki, avocado, cucumber, spring onions, crispy onions and homemade wasabi mayo
Salmon avocado
Salmon, avocado, cucumber, crab stick, tobiko and homemade wasabi mayo
Green field (v)
Shiitake mushrooms, avocado, wakame seaweed, spring onions and crispy onions
Cha han
Fried sticky rice, snow peas, peppers, carrots, spring onions, shallots and egg, served with miso soup
Yaki soba
Fried egg noodles, snow peas, peppers, bean sprouts, green leaves, carrots, spring onions, shallots
Chicken karaage
Japanese fried chicken with a sesame and teriyaki drizzle
Shiitake & tofu (v)
Shiitake mushrooms, tempura tofu and wakame seaweed
Chicken katsu
Chicken breast dipped in panko crumbs, served with sticky rice, tempura sweet potato and fresh green salad leaves
Vegetable kare (v)
Shiitake mushrooms, aubergine, peppers, snow peas and sweet potato, served with sticky rice
White Wine
Glass (175ml) | Bottle
Chardonnay
Les Foncanelles - Pays D’oc, France; Dry, Light, Creamy
Sauvignon Blanc
Saint Marc - Pays D’oc, France; Dry, Fresh, Citrusy
Pinot Grigio
Villa Molino - Delle Venezie, Italy; Fruity, Fresh, Crisp
Chenin Blanc
Oude Kaap - Western Cape, South Africa; Dry, Light, Tropical
Red Wine
Glass (175ml) | Bottle
Merlot
Saint Marc - Pays D’oc, France; Intense, Fruity, Smooth
Cabernet Sauvignon
Les Foncanelles - Pays D’oc, France; Bold, Silky, Aromatic
Pinot Noir
Lunaka - Aconcagua, Chile; Light, Fruity, Smooth
Tempranillo
Rivarey - Rioja, Spain; Fruity, Spicy, Smooth
Sparkling Wine
Bottle
Prosecco
Borgo Del Col Alto Brut - Veneto, Italy; Fruity, Light, Fresh
Champagne
Laurent Perrier La Cuvée Brut - Champagne, France; Creamy, Fresh, Balanced
Sake & Plum Wine
Glass | Bottle
Sake 150ml
Sho Chiku Bai Gokai, Japan; Dry, Light, Balanced; Served Warm
Sake 300ml
Sho Chiku Bai Junmai, Japan; Smooth, Nutty, Refreshing; Served Chilled
Sake 300ml
Homare Aladdin Yuzu Sake, Japan; Citrusy, Slightly Sweet, Refreshing; Served Chilled
Sake 300ml
Kizakura Piano Junmai Sparkling Sake, Japan; Sweet, Fruity, Refreshing; Served Chilled
Beer
Asahi 330ml
Super Dry, Crisp, Refreshing
Sapporo 330ml
Smooth, Hoppy, Malty
Kirin Ichiban 330ml
Rich, Balanced, Bittersweet
Peroni 330ml
Light, Crisp, Clean
Spirits
25ml
Hendricks Gin
Roku Japanese Gin
Ketel One Vodka
Belvedere Vodka
Soft drinks
Yuzu Mitzu
Refreshing yuzu lemon and honey
Mineral Water 330ml
Still or sparkling
Mineral Water 750ml
Still or sparkling
Coke 330ml
Tea & coffee
Organic Matcha Green Tea
Espresso
Americano
Cappuccino
Vegetarian Food Studio
Vegetarian Food Studio gives Grangetown a destination restaurant built around Gujarati, South Indian and Indo-Chinese cooking. It has the confidence of a long-running family business: vegetables, pulses and house-made accompaniments take centre stage instead of being treated as substitutes. The informal room suits families and mixed groups, and the clearly marked vegan choices make it unusually easy to order widely without turning dinner into a negotiation.
A thali is the clearest introduction, balancing curries, dal or kadhi, rice, breads, salad, something sweet and crisp accompaniments on one plate. Masala dosa offers a lighter contrast through its fermented pancake, potato filling, sambar and coconut chutney, while chaat and chilli paneer add crunch and sharpness for sharing. Current diners repeatedly praise the flavour and generous range, with occasional variation between dishes, so the regional specialities are the best place to focus.
Address: 115-117 Penarth Road, Cardiff CF11 6JU, United Kingdom
Vegetarian Food Studio Menu
Starters
Loaded Chilli Chips
Potato chips with cheese, onions in a fiery masala sauce
Crispy Chips Chilli Mix
Crispy chips stir fried with garlic, onion, peppers tossed in Indo-Chinese sauce
Chilli Chips Chat
Potato chips with baked beans, green chillies and onions
Chinese Samosas (3pc)
Samosas filled with Chinese noodles, no onion, no garlic served tamarind chutney
Mexican samosas (3pc)
samosas filled with Mexican masala, no onion, no garlic served tamarind chutney
3 in 1 Chat
Chat made with spring roll, samosa and petis
Bread & Rice
Biryani
Long basmati rice cooked with vegetables, onions, garlic, and spices
Mixed Bean Rice
Steamed basmati rice mixed with various beans and spices
Puran Bread (2pc)
A sweet flatbread stuff with lentil filling spiced with saffron and cardamom made with wheat flour
Bhakari (2pc)
Flatbread made with wheat flour, black pepper, sesame seeds, and jeera
North Indian Dishes
Cabbage Curry
Gujarati style cabbage curry with peas and potatoes
Cauliflower Peas & Potato Curry
Cauliflower peas and potato cooked with Gujarati style masala
Cashew Nut Curry
Cashew nuts it cooked with cream and spicy Punjabi gravy
Paneer Butter Masala
Paneer cooked in creamy Punjabi style gravy
Baked Bean Curry
Baked beans cooked with onions and in mild masala
Chana Paneer / Tofu
Chickpeas cooked in a Punjabi style tomato based sauce with paneer OR tofu
Oriental Dishes
Kung Pao Potato
Potato wedges cooked in sweet & sour sauce, diced peppers, onions with roasted sesame seeds and nuts
Chilli Tofu Noodles
Stir fried noodles with tofu, onions, peppers, garlic, cabbage, and carrots
Chinese Bubble
Noodles, mogo, paneer manchurian stir fried with vegetables in an Indo Chinese sauce
South Indian
Nutella Dosa
Dosa layered with Nutella
Biscoff Dosa
Dosa layered with Biscoff (No sambhar)
Dairy Milk Dosa
Dosa layered with Chocolate (No sambhar)
Fasting Food
Farali Potatoes
Potatoes cooked with tomatoes, chilies, cumin, and black pepper
Sabudana Ni Khichdi
Sago seeds cooked with potatoes, nuts, cumin, and spices
Farali Chilli Paneer
Paneer cooked with peppers, carrots, cabbage and imli sauce
The Classroom – Y Dosbarth
The Classroom turns a meal into one of the area's most distinctive experiences. Based at Cardiff and Vale College, it is a working training restaurant where students cook and serve under professional supervision. That educational purpose does not make the food feel like an exercise: the kitchen works seasonally, uses Welsh produce where possible and prepares bread and dishes from scratch, giving the menu a polish that suits a planned lunch or dinner.
Because the menu changes through the year, choose by structure rather than arriving for one fixed dish. A starter that highlights vegetables or seafood, followed by a carefully cooked main and a composed dessert, shows the brigade's range better than the simplest option. Recent guests often comment on the value and surprisingly assured service. Opening dates follow the college calendar, so booking ahead is sensible and also lets the kitchen pace the experience properly.
Address: Cardiff and Vale College, Dumballs Road, Cardiff CF10 5FE, United Kingdom
The Classroom - Y Dosbarth Menu
Starters
Pan seared scallops, Cauliflower purée and pancetta crumb
Mushroom pate served with a sweet onion chutney (V)
Charred beetroot, whipped smoked almond cream, blood orange and a dill oil (Ve)
Mixed antipasti meats and olives served with balsamic, olive oil dip
Mains
Pan roasted chicken supreme, creamed spinach, parmesan polenta and a lemon thyme butter sauce
Pan fried sea bream, crushed new potatoes, samphire and a saffron beurre Blanc sauce
Beef & mushroom stroganoff with paprika cream & buttered rice
Roast celeriac steak, Jerusalem artichoke purée, cavolo nero, hazelnut crumb finished with a vegan red wine reduction (Ve)
Desserts
Vanilla panna cotta served with fresh raspberries and a raspberry coulis
Chocolate and hazelnut delice served with chocolate ice cream
Apple and blackberry crumble with a vegan vanilla ice cream (Ve)
Warm honey sponge pudding with a butterscotch sauce
September/October Lunch Menu
Two courses £21.00 and three courses £27.00
Pan seared scallops, cauliflower purée and pancetta crumb
Charred beetroot, whipped smoked almond cream, blood orange and dill oil (Ve, V)
Mixed antipasti meats and olives served with and balsamic, olive oil dip
Pan roasted chicken supreme, creamed spinach, parmesan polenta and a lemon thyme butter sauce
Pan fried sea bream, crushed new potatoes, samphire and a saffron beurre blanc sauce
Roast celeriac steak, Jerusalem artichoke purée, cavolo nero, hazelnut crumb finished with a vegan red wine reduction (Ve, V)
Beef & mushroom stroganoff with paprika cream & buttered rice
£6.00 supplement
Chocolate and hazelnut delice served with chocolate ice cream
Apple and blackberry crumble with a vegan vanilla ice cream (Ve, V)
Warm honey sponge pudding with a butterscotch sauce
Côte Cardiff Bay
Côte is the dependable French-brasserie option directly opposite the Wales Millennium Centre. The room is polished without becoming formal, and its long service window makes it useful for breakfast, a pre-theatre set menu or an unhurried dinner overlooking the Bay's landmark buildings. The appeal lies in recognisable French cooking delivered with enough consistency for families, couples and groups whose plans are tied to a performance time.
Steak frites is the signature route, pairing a carefully cooked steak with crisp fries and a sauce chosen for richness or peppery lift. Fish dishes, salads and the prix-fixe selection create lighter alternatives, while chocolate mousse offers a classic finish. The menu also gives gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan diners a workable set of choices. For an evening show, mention the curtain time and order from the shorter set menu to keep the meal relaxed.
Address: 25 Mermaid Quay, Cardiff CF10 5BZ, United Kingdom
Cote Cardiff Bay Menu
For The Table
Baguette
Fresh from France, with Brittany salt butter
Fougasse
Provençal sharing sourdough garlic bread with your choice of Garlic Butter // Black Garlic Butter // Wild Garlic & Sun-Dried Tomato Butter // Comté & Caramelised Onion (ve)
Baked Camembert
With a Provençal chilli compote & seeded sourdough
Charcuterie Board
Choose your three favourites from the below, served with pickled cucumber, celeriac remoulade, Provençal chilli compote & sourdough baguette. Truffle Saucisson // Savoie Ham // Pork Rillettes // Délice de Bourgogne // Truffle Brie // Cantal Cheese
To Start
French Onion Soup
Our original recipe, topped with Comté rarebit, sourdough baguette
Twice Baked Souffle
Topped with melted Camembert & creamy onion sauce
Chicken Liver Parfait
Spiced pear chutney & seeded sourdough
Potted Crab
Lobster butter, avocado & seeded sourdough
Calamari
Crispy breadcrumbed squid with Provençal mayonnaise
Garlic & Chilli King Prawns
King prawns in a cherry tomato & white wine butter sauce with sourdough baguette
Grilled Peach & Lentil Salad
Roasted walnuts, cucumber yoghurt & rocket
Sautéed Scallops
Cauliflower purée, sauce vierge & pea shoots. Add crispy Savoie ham +1
Roast Chicken Dijonnaise
Shredded chicken in a mustard mayonnaise with celeriac remoulade, grapes, hazelnuts & seeded sourdough
Côte Icons
Steak Frites
5oz minute steak with garlic butter & free-flow frites. +3 supplement on Prix Fixe
Half Poulet Breton
A half corn-fed chicken from Northern France, roasted with garlic, rosemary and thyme. Served with your choice of our signature garlic butters and free-flow frites
Whole Poulet Breton
A whole corn-fed chicken from Northern France, roasted with garlic, rosemary and thyme. Served with your choice of our signature garlic butters and free-flow frites
Confit Pork Belly
Savoy cabbage, raisins, apples, Calvados jus & gratin dauphinois potatoes
Duck Confit
Crisp duck leg, orange & passion fruit jus, wild mushroom creamed lentils & Tenderstem® broccoli
Beef Bourguignon
Five-hour slow-cooked braised beef cheek, mushrooms, bacon, carrots & creamed potatoes
Salmon Béarnaise
Housemade béarnaise, Tenderstem® broccoli & sautéed tarragon new potatoes
Breton Fish Stew
Mussels, prawns, sea bream & new potatoes in a tomato, white wine & chilli sauce with sourdough baguette
Plaice Frites
Panko crusted fish fillets, crushed petit pois & housemade tartare sauce with free-flow frites
Moules Mariniere
Scottish mussels, white wine, shallot & cream sauce with free-flow frites
Provençal Tarte Tatin
Puff pastry tarte with grilled aubergine, courgette & peppers topped with Boursin & rocket
Steak Haché Burger
Beef burger, peppercorn sauce, Dijonnaise & pickles, in a seeded brioche bun with baby gem wedge & free-flow frites
Risotto Vert
Peas, grilled courgettes & French beans with salsa vierge, topped with toasted pine nuts
Mushroom Comté Burger
Beef burger, creamed wild mushrooms, Comté cheese, Dijonnaise & pickles, in a seeded brioche bun with baby gem wedge & free-flow frites
Vegan Fable Burger
Mushroom burger, Dijonnaise & pickles, in a seeded brioche bun with baby gem wedge & free-flow frites
Côte Butchery
Free-Flow Frites: Order any dish with frites and we'll keep you topped up, just ask. Golden. Crispy. Moreish. Free-flow frites until defeat.
Fillet (7oz)
Served with baby gem wedge & free-flow frites
Sirloin (8oz)
Served with baby gem wedge & free-flow frites.
Ribeye (10oz)
Served with baby gem wedge & free-flow frites
Light Mains
Caesar Salad
Crisp baby gem lettuce, cheese, soft-boiled egg & brioche croutons. Add anchovies +1, Add crispy Savoie ham +1, Add shredded chicken +5, gluten free option available
Crab & Prawn Linguine
White wine and lobster butter sauce, with cherry tomatoes, chilli & basil
Sirloin Steak Baguette
Caramelised onions, rocket & Dijonnaise with baby gem wedge
Tuna Niçoise
Tuna steak, soft-boiled egg, anchovies, mustard dressing & confit potatoes
French Onion Baguette
Shredded Fable mushrooms, melted Camembert with French onion soup to dip
Creamy Tomato Mafalde
Mafalde pasta ribbons, creamy tomato Provençal sauce & grilled courgettes. Add grilled king prawns +5
Sides
Green Salad
Avocado, cucumber, mustard vinaigrette
Free-Flow Frites
Tomato & Basil Salad
Gratin Mushrooms
Brioche Crumb
Creamed Spinach
Pine nuts & garlic
Tenderstem® Broccoli Amandine
Gratin Dauphinois
French Beans
In wild garlic butter with crispy shallots
Sauces
Garlic Butter
Black Garlic Butter
Wild Garlic & Sun-Dried Tomato Butter
Peppercorn
Wild Mushroom
Béarnaise
Côte Gravy
Desserts
Elderflower Crème Brûlée
A burnt French custard with strawberry & basil salad
Crème Caramel
Set vanilla custard with dark caramel
Warm Chocolate Fondant
With salted caramel sauce, vanilla ice cream & hazelnut tuille
Tarte au Citron
With raspberries & crème Chantilly
Ice Cream Duo
Two scoops of vanilla, chocolate or salted caramel ice cream. Lemon or raspberry sorbet
Café Gourmand
A selection of miniature desserts. Raspberry macaron, canelé and a warm butter madeleine with coffee of your choice. (Contains alcohol)
Madeleines
Two warm butter madeleines & chocolate sauce
Chocolate Praline Tart
With cherry compote & vanilla
Canelés
Three rum & vanilla custard pastries. (Contains alcohol)
Cherry Chocolate Crêpe
With cherry compote, vanilla ice cream & chocolate sauce
Chocolate Mousse for One
Our original recipe with a devilishly decadent twist. Dig in. Serve yourself. Customise every bite. Made to savour solo. With salted butter biscuits, hazelnuts, dried berries, extra virgin olive oil and Maldon salt
Chocolate Mousse for 2-3
Our original recipe with a devilishly decadent twist. Dig in. Serve yourself. Customise every bite. Made to savour solo. With salted butter biscuits, hazelnuts, dried berries, extra virgin olive oil and Maldon salt
Las Iguanas – Cardiff – Mermaid Quay
Las Iguanas brings an upbeat Latin American menu to Mermaid Quay, with the waterfront setting and cocktail-led atmosphere making it particularly effective for groups. The food ranges from Mexican-inspired small plates to fajitas, curries, burgers and burritos, so diners with different appetites can share a table without following the same route. It is livelier than the area's quieter restaurants and best suited to a social lunch, birthday or pre-show meal.
Start with guacamole, nachos or a spread of tacos, then decide whether the table wants sizzling fajitas or separate mains. Burritos and chimichangas are the substantial choices, while a few tapas-style plates allow more variety and leave room for dessert. The broad menu can become unfocused if everyone orders at random, so choose a theme—Mexican sharing plates, Brazilian flavours or a vegetarian spread—and the meal will have a clearer rhythm.
Address: Ground Floor, Mermaid Quay, Cardiff CF10 5BZ, United Kingdom
Las Iguanas - Mermaid Quay Menu
Sharing Section
Taco Sharing Board
Gather, share and tuck in. Soft tortillas, fresh guacamole, salsa, sour cream, cheese and lime, served with your choice of three fillings for the ultimate build-your-own taco feast.
3 Way Wings
21 wings served three ways: BBQ, Hot Honey and Cholula Hot Sauce.
Single Nachos
Fresh guacamole, fresh salsa, cheese, jalapeños, spring onions, pickled red onions, chipotle cheese sauce, sour cream.
For Two
Fresh guacamole, fresh salsa, cheese, jalapeños, spring onions, pickled red onions, chipotle cheese sauce, sour cream.
Cheesy Peru Fondue
Warm chipotle cheese sauce with crispy seasoned potatoes for dipping
Tapas & Starters
Páo De Queijo
Brazilian cheese dough balls, with garlic butter
Padrón Peppers
Fried green padrón peppers with Maldon sea salt.
Calamares
Crispy golden calamari with creamy garlic aioli and lemon. Crunchy, zesty and made for dipping.
Lemon & Chilli Butter Prawns
Juicy prawns coated in our buttery lemon & chilli sauce, served with chargrilled bread made for dipping.
Chicken Wings
Tender chicken wings coated in your choice of bold, flavour-packed sauce. Crispy, sticky and impossible to resist.
Sunshine Salad
A fresh and vibrant favourite loaded with crisp greens, juicy watermelon, cooling cucumber, fresh mint and creamy feta, all brought to life with our tropical pineapple dressing.
Chicken Empanada
Chipotle chicken and cheese empanada served with fresh salsa.
Cheese Empanada
Two cheese empanada served with fresh salsa.
Red Pepper Salad
Fresh red pepper salsa, rocket, cherry tomatoes, pink pickled onions, pumpkin seeds, pineapple dressing.
Patatas Bravas
Fried potatoes, chipotle sauce, garlic aioli, spring onions.
Buttermilk Fried Chicken
Agave aioli, spring onions, pineapple citrus slaw.
Quesadillas
Golden toasted tortillas packed with melted cheese and your choice of filling, served with fresh pico salsa for dipping. Choose from:
Hot Honey Fried Halloumi
With chilli flakes.
Tacos
Choose your filling and dive into two soft corn tortillas bursting with vibrant Latin flavours. Want to keep it light? Swap your tortillas for crisp lettuce cups.
Curries
XimXim
Our legendary creamy lime and peanut curry with chicken and crayfish. served with toasted coconut and our Pão de queijo Brazilian cheese dough balls.
Brazilian Bahian Curry
Coconut, ginger, garlic, cumin, cayenne, tomatoes and coriander.
Mains
Sizzling Fajitas
Sautéed mixed peppers, onions and spices, with fresh guacamole, fresh salsa, sour cream, cheese and slaw. Served with tortillas.
Taste Of Mexico
Tasting plate of pork quesadillas, chicken fajitas, tortilla chips, chilli and rice
10oz Ribeye Steak
Big on flavour and grilled to perfection. Our succulent 10oz ribeye comes served with golden fries and flame-grilled corn for the ultimate indulgent feast.
Ribs & Wings
With fries, corn on the cob and crispy onions.
Full Rack of Ribs
Brazilian Loaded Chicken
Crispy buttermilk chicken breast topped with sweetcure streaky bacon, montrey jack cheese, with BBQ sauce. Served with rice and or fries and chipotle dip.
Burrito
Grilled tortilla parcel stuffed with rice, cheese, black beans and slaw, served with fresh guacamole, salsa, and tortilla chips.
Enchiladas
Baked tortilla stuffed with rice, refried beans, topped with cheese and chipotle sauce.
Rainbow Cod
Baked cod loin, red pepper salsa, rocket, cherry tomatoes, pink pickled onions, pumpkin seeds, pineapple dressing.
Sunshine Salad
A fresh and vibrant favourite loaded with crisp greens, juicy watermelon, cooling cucumber, fresh mint and creamy feta, all brought to life with our tropical pineapple dressing.
Grilled Chicken & Avocado Salad
Our Latin-inspired take on a Caesar salad. Marinated grilled chicken, creamy avocado, roasted corn, tomatoes and crisp gem lettuce, finished with a zesty hot honey & lime dressing.
Chilli Con Carne
With spring onion rice, tortilla chips, sour cream & chillies.
Burgers
Gaucho Smash
Double stack smash patties, Monterey Jack, smoked streaky bacon, lettuce, pickles, burger sauce. Served with fries.
Acapulco
Crispy buttermilk chicken, lettuce, tomato, slaw, nacho cheese sauce. Served with fries.
Chilli Stack
Double stack smash patties, chilli con carne, American mustard, ketchup, caramelised onions. Vegan option available. Served with fries.
Classic
Lettuce, tomato and burger sauce. Served with fries. Choose From:
FAJITA GRILLED CHICKEN BURGER
FAJITA DOUBLE SMASH BEEF BURGER
Sides
Straight Fries
Curly Fries
Sweet Potato Fries
Dirty BBQ Cheese Fries
Onion Rings
Mixed Salad
Corn on the Cob
Mac & Cheese
Guacamole
Dips
Aji Salsa
Sour Cream
Tomato Salsa
Agave Aioli
Cowboy Pineapple Salsa
BBQ Dip
Honey Peri-Peri
Desserts
Four Churros
Cinnamon-sugar dusted churros.
Ten Churros
Perfect to share. 10 Cinnamon dusted churros, served with Dulche De Leche and Chocolate Ganache V.
Ice Cream & Sorbet
Choose any of the following 3 scoops:
Passionfruit & White Chocolate Cheesecake
Warm Chocolate Brownie
Warm chocolate brownie, Salted caramel & vanilla ice cream, finished with rich chococlate sauce & Dulce de leche sauces
Zizzi – Cardiff Mermaid Quay
Zizzi offers relaxed Italian-inspired dining beside the water, with enough flexibility for families, mixed dietary needs and a meal before the cinema or Millennium Centre. Hand-stretched pizzas and made-to-order pasta form the core, while salads and smaller plates keep lunch from feeling heavy. The branch's outdoor tables are an advantage in good weather, although the busy Mermaid Quay setting means booking is useful at peak weekend times.
The seasonal menu is more interesting than a default margherita. Crab and lemon arancini or hot-honey pork belly can open the meal, followed by a rustica pizza, bolognese or a pasta such as the creamy pesto rosso. Vegan lentil ragù and non-gluten pizza give dietary requirements real choice rather than a token fallback. Share a starter and select contrasting mains; that preserves the casual pace while letting the kitchen's strongest dough and pasta dishes stand out.
Address: Unit 8, Mermaid Quay, Cardiff CF10 5BZ, United Kingdom
Zizzi - Cardiff Mermaid Quay Menu
Starters
Garlic Bread
Garlic. Rosemary.
Chorizo & Mozzarella Bombe
Large freshly baked gooey cheesy dough ball. Hot honey.
Burrata Caprese
Whole burrata. Red & orange baby plum tomatoes. Red onion.
La Bomba Meatballs
Pork, fennel & mozzarella meatballs. Fiery La Bomba sauce. Melted mozzarella.
Calamari Small
Garlic aioli.
Crispy Chilli Calamari - Small
Crispy squid. Hot honey. Crispy chilli oil. Calabrese dip.
Fonduta Formaggi
Five melted cheeses. Freshly baked dough crusts to dip.
Hot Honey Pork Belly
Roasted & glazed pork belly bites. Roquito hot honey. La Bomba sauce. Fire-roasted red peppers. Crispy chilli oil.
Aubergine Fritti
Polenta-coated aubergine wedges. Calabrese dip.
Chicken Spiedini
Garlic chicken breast roasted on a skewer. Sunblush tomatoes. Your choice of dip.
Bruschetta Classica
Red & orange baby plum tomatoes. Red onion. Freshly baked bread. Balsamic drizzle.
Mushroom Brindisi
Creamy Portobello & Porcini mushrooms. Riserva cheese. Crispy sage. Freshly baked dough crusts.
Grande Antipasto
Prosciutto. Truffle salami. Spianata salami. Garlic & Mozzarella Bombe. Hot honey. Olives. Tomato & mozzarella salad.
Garlic Bread with Mozzarella & Caramelised Onions
with caramelised balsamic onions.
Cheesy Chilli Garlic Bread
Mains
Grande Antipasto
Prosciutto. Truffle salami. Spianata salami. Garlic & Mozzarella Bombe. Hot honey. Olives. Tomato & mozzarella salad.
Venison Pepperoni
Venison pepperoni. Candied jalapenos. Mozzarella. Roquito pepper pearls. Crispy Riserva. Hot honey. Sage.
Pepperoni Campagna
Pepperoni. Ham. Mushrooms. Mozzarella. Rosemary. Over 50g of protein.
Chicken & Fiery Roquito
Harissa chicken breast. Mozzarella. Roquito chillies. Fiery La Bomba base. Over 50g protein.
Margherita
Tomato. Mozzarella. Fresh basil.
Vegan Margherita
Tomato. MozzaRisella. Fresh basil.
Carne Sofia
Harissa chicken breast. Pepperoni. Chorizo. Mozzarella. Roquito chillies. Over 50g protein
Piccante
'Nduja. Pepperoni. Spianata salami. Chilli. Mushrooms. Mozzarella. Mascarpone. Rocket.
Pollo Piccante
Spicy harissa chicken breast. Creamy harissa sauce. Baby plum tomatoes. Spinach. Flamed chilli. Casareccia pasta.
Pesto Rosso
Harissa chicken breast. Creamy red pesto sauce. Mascarpone. Casareccia pasta.
Bolognese Classico
Slow-cooked British beef & tomato ragu. Spaghetti.
Pomodoro
Baby plum tomatoes. Pomodoro sauce. Fior di Latte mozzarella. Spaghetti.
Vegan Pomodoro
Datterini tomatoes. Pomodoro sauce. Spaghetti.
Vegan Lentil Ragu
Du Berry lentils. Baby plum tomatoes. Spinach. Genovese pesto. Spaghetti.
Ravioli Di Capra
Spinach & goat's cheese ravioli. Pomodoro sauce. Baby plum tomatoes. Genovese pesto. Pine nuts.
Six Layer Lasagne
Six layers of egg pasta. Rich beef ragu. Bechamel. Breadcrumbs. Riserva cheese.
Garlic Bread with Mozzarella & Caramelised Onions
with caramelised balsamic onions.
Cheesy Chilli Garlic Bread
Desserts
Nemesis
Rich chocolate cake. Gooey chocolate centre. Vanilla gelato. Salted caramel sauce.
Limoncello Basque
Baked Limoncello cheesecake. Lemon curd. Vanilla gelato.
Tiramisu
Espresso & coffee liqueur-soaked sponge. Mascarpone cream. Cocoa. Dark chocolate shavings.
Raspberry Collins Cheesecake
Raspberry & gin-layered cheesecake. Strawberry sorbet.
Chocolate Caramello Sundae
Salted caramel chocolate brownie. Chocolate gelato. Salted caramel gelato. Freshly whipped cream. Honeycomb. Salted caramel sauce.
Cioccolato Mousse
Rich dark chocolate mousse. Extra Virgin Olive Oil & Maldon Sea Salt on the side.
Salted Caramel Chocolate Brownie
Warm brownie with a gooey salted caramel centre. Vanilla gelato. Salted caramel drizzle.
Honeycomb Cheesecake
Salted caramel gelato. Salted caramel sauce. Honeycomb.
Candy Floss Dolce
Panna cotta & wild strawberry gelato. Dragon fruit sorbet. Fresh strawberries. Pink meringue. Freshly whipped cream. Strawberry coulis. Candy floss.
Fudge Cake
Warm chocolate & salted caramel fudge cake. Honeycomb.
Gelato & Sorbet (3 scoops)
Vanilla | Chocolate | Panna Cotta & Wild Strawberry | Salted Caramel | Coconut & Lime | Strawberry Sorbet | Dragon Fruit Sorbet
Tropical Pina Colada Sundae
Coconut & Lime gelato. Vanilla gelato. Freshly whipped cream. Pineapple puree. Pink meringue. Dried raspberries. (Not really a Pina Colada)
Non-Gluten Pizzas
Non-Gluten Venison Pepperoni
Venison pepperoni. Candied jalapenos. Mozzarella. Roquito pepper pearls. Crispy Riserva. Hot honey. Sage.
Non-Gluten Pepperoni Campagna Pizza
Pepperoni. Ham. Mushrooms. Mozzarella. Rosemary.
Non-Gluten Chicken & Fiery Roquito
Harissa chicken breast. Mozzarella. Roquito chillies. Fiery La Bomba base.
Non-Gluten Margherita Pizza
Tomato. Mozzarella. Fresh basil.
Non-Gluten Vegan Margherita Pizza
Tomato. MozzaRisella. Fresh basil.
Non-Gluten Carne Sofia
Harissa chicken breast. Pepperoni. Chorizo. Mozzarella. Roquito chillies.
Non-Gluten Piccante Pizza
'Nduja. Pepperoni. Spianata salami. Chilli. Mushrooms. Mozzarella. Mascarpone. Rocket.
Non-Gluten Sticky Pig Pizza
Slow-cooked pulled pork. Crumbled meatballs. 'Nduja. Mozzarella. Riserva cheese. Crackling. Hot honey. A pizza of two halves. One side tomato, the other bechamel.
Non-Gluten Pinoli Pizza
Goat's cheese. Mozzarella. Caramelised balsamic onions. Sunblush tomatoes. Toasted pine nuts.
Non-Gluten Pepperoni Premio Pizza
Pepperoni. Mozzarella.
Non-Gluten Truffle Salami
Black truffle salami. Mozzarella. Mushrooms. Crispy prosciutto. Riserva cheese. Truffle & bechamel base.
Non-Gluten Primavera
Goat's cheese. Mozzarella. Artichokes. Rocket. Olives. Fire-roasted peppers. Sunblush tomatoes. Genovese pesto.
Non-Gluten Aubergine Parmigiana
Crispy aubergine. Candied jalapenos. Roquito pepper pearls. Vegan MozzaRisella. Spicy harissa.
Non-Gluten Roast Pollo & Pesto
Roasted chicken breast. Genovese pesto. Pine nuts. Isle of Wight heritage tomatoes. Mixed leaves.
Non-Gluten Quattro Pomodoro
Isle of Wight heritage tomatoes. Sunblush tomatoes. Pomodoro sauce. Mozzarella. Burrata. Crispy chilli oil. Yellow Pepper & Pomodoro sauce.
Venison Pepperoni
Venison pepperoni. Candied jalapenos. Mozzarella. Roquito pepper pearls. Crispy Riserva. Hot honey. Sage.
Margherita
Tomato. Mozzarella. Fresh basil.
Vegan Margherita
Tomato. MozzaRisella. Fresh basil.
Piccante
'Nduja. Pepperoni. Spianata salami. Chilli. Mushrooms. Mozzarella. Mascarpone. Rocket.
Sticky Pig
Slow-cooked pulled pork. Crumbled meatballs. 'Nduja. Mozzarella. Riserva cheese. Crackling. Hot honey. A pizza of two halves. One side tomato, the other bechamel.
Truffle Carbonara
Four cheese, black pepper & truffle sauce. Pancetta. Crispy prosciutto. Riserva cheese crisp. Fresh Mafaldine pasta.
Chianti Beef Ragu
Slow-cooked beef brisket & beef rib ragu. Black garlic. Chianti red wine. Slow-roasted tomatoes. Fresh Mafaldine pasta.
Pollo Piccante
Spicy harissa chicken breast. Creamy harissa sauce. Baby plum tomatoes. Spinach. Flamed chilli. Casareccia pasta.
Pesto Rosso
Harissa chicken breast. Creamy red pesto sauce. Mascarpone. Casareccia pasta.
Bolognese Classico
Slow-cooked British beef & tomato ragu. Spaghetti.
Pomodoro
Baby plum tomatoes. Pomodoro sauce. Fior di Latte mozzarella. Spaghetti.
Vegan Pomodoro
Datterini tomatoes. Pomodoro sauce. Spaghetti.
Vegan Lentil Ragu
Du Berry lentils. Baby plum tomatoes. Spinach. Genovese pesto. Spaghetti.
Ravioli Di Capra
Spinach & goat's cheese ravioli. Pomodoro sauce. Baby plum tomatoes. Genovese pesto. Pine nuts.
Non-Gluten Pastas
Non-Gluten Pasta Truffle Carbonara
Four cheese, black pepper & truffle sauce. Pancetta. Crispy prosciutto. Riserva cheese crisp.
Non-Gluten Meatballs Alla Vodka
Pork, fennel & mozzarella meatballs. Spicy Alla Vodka sauce. Cherry tomatoes. Riserva cheese. Flamed chilli.
Non-Gluten Pasta Chianti Beef Ragu
Slow-cooked beef brisket & beef rib ragu. Black garlic. Chianti red wine. Slow-roasted tomatoes.
Non-Gluten Pasta Chilli King Prawn
King prawn spiedini. Seafood & Roquito chilli bisque. Courgette ribbons.
Non-Gluten Seafood Vongole
King prawns. Clams. Wild garlic, lemon, caper & parsley butter sauce.
Non-Gluten Pasta Bolognese Classico
Slow-cooked British beef & tomato ragu.
Non-Gluten Pasta Vegan Pomodoro
Datterini tomatoes. Pomodoro sauce.
Non-Gluten Pasta Lentil Ragu
Du Berry lentils. Baby plum tomatoes. Spinach. Genovese pesto.
Non-Gluten Truffle Carbonara Sharepan
Four cheese, black pepper & truffle sauce. Crispy prosciutto. Pancetta. Riserva cheese crisp.
Non-gluten Pasta Chorizo Carbonara
Chorizo & pancetta carbonara sauce.
Non-Gluten Pasta Pollo Piccante
Spicy harissa chicken breast. Creamy harissa sauce. Baby plum tomatoes. Spinach. Flamed chilli.
Non-Gluten Pesto Rosso
Harissa chicken breast. Creamy red pesto sauce. Mascarpone.
Non-Gluten Pomodoro
Baby plum tomatoes. Pomodoro sauce. Fior di Latte mozzarella.
Set Menu
Any pizza to share (Rustica, Calzone or Classico) + 2 sides + 2 soft drinks = £25
TWO DINE FOR £25
Any pizza to share (Rustica, Calzone or Classico) + 2 sides + 2 soft drinks = £25
Pizza
Venison Pepperoni
Venison pepperoni. Candied jalapenos. Mozzarella. Roquito pepper pearls. Crispy Riserva. Hot honey. Sage.
Margherita
Tomato. Mozzarella. Fresh basil.
Vegan Margherita
Tomato. MozzaRisella. Fresh basil.
Sticky Pig
Slow-cooked pulled pork. Crumbled meatballs. ‘Nduja. Mozzarella. Riserva cheese. Crackling. Hot honey. A pizza of two halves. One side tomato, the other bechamel.
Truffle Salami
Black truffle salami. Mozzarella. Mushrooms. Crispy prosciutto. Riserva cheese. Truffle & bechamel base. Over 50g protein.
Pasta
Truffle Carbonara
Four cheese, black pepper & truffle sauce. Pancetta. Crispy prosciutto. Riserva cheese crisp. Fresh Mafaldine pasta.
Meatballs Alla Vodka
Pork, fennel & mozzarella meatballs. Spicy Alla Vodka sauce. Cherry tomatoes. Riserva cheese. Flamed chilli. Fresh Mafaldine pasta.
Chianti Beef Ragu
Slow-cooked beef brisket & beef rib ragu. Black garlic. Chianti red wine. Slow-roasted tomatoes. Fresh Mafaldine pasta.
Pollo Piccante
Spicy harissa chicken breast. Creamy harissa sauce. Baby plum tomatoes. Spinach. Flamed chilli. Casareccia pasta.
Pesto Rosso
Harissa chicken breast. Creamy red pesto sauce. Mascarpone. Casareccia pasta.
Bolognese Classico
Slow-cooked British beef & tomato ragu. Spaghetti.
Pomodoro
Baby plum tomatoes. Pomodoro sauce. Fior di Latte mozzarella. Spaghetti.
Vegan Pomodoro
Datterini tomatoes. Pomodoro sauce. Spaghetti.
Vegan Lentil Ragu
Du Berry lentils. Baby plum tomatoes. Spinach. Genovese pesto. Spaghetti.
Ravioli Di Capra
Spinach & goat's cheese ravioli. Pomodoro sauce. Baby plum tomatoes. Genovese pesto. Pine nuts.
On The Side
Chips
Skin on. Rosemary. Maldon Sea Salt.
Sweet Potato Fries
Crispy sweet potato fries.
Loaded Bolognese Chips
Skin on chips. Rich beef ragu. Mozzarella.
Mixed Leaf Salad
Baby gem. Mixed leaves. Caesar dressing. Riserva cheese.
Fresca Greens
Green beans. Spinach. Kale. Garlic.
Courgetti Fritti
Crispy courgette chips.
Garlic Bread with Mozzarella
Just cheese
Garlic Bread with Mozzarella & Caramelised Onions
with caramelised balsamic onions.
Cheesy Chilli Garlic Bread
Kids Sides
Kids Sweet Potato Fries
Kids Chips
Kids Green Beans
Soft Drinks
Morello Cherry Refresher
Morello cherry. Persian lime. Orange. Lemon. Soda.
Raspberry & Rose Lemonade
Lemon. Raspberry & Rose Soda. Dragon fruit sorbet.
Pineapple and Citrus Refresher
Morello cherry. Persian lime. Orange. Lemon. Soda.
Trip CBD Blend
CBD Blend: Raspberry. Orange blossom. Sparkling water.
White Wine
Sauvignon Blanc 250ml
Vegan Vegetarian
Sauvignon Blanc Bottle
Vegan Vegetarian
Trebbiano 125ml
Vegan Vegetarian
Trebbiano 175ml
Vegan Vegetarian
Rose Wine
Pinot Grigio Blush 125ml
Vegan Vegetarian
Pinot Grigio Blush 175ml
Vegan Vegetarian
Pinot Grigio Blush 250ml
Vegan Vegetarian
Pinot Grigio Blush Bottle
Vegan Vegetarian
Red Wine
Montepulciano 125ml
Vegan Vegetarian
Montepulciano 175ml
Vegan Vegetarian
Montepulciano 250ml
Vegan Vegetarian
Montepulciano Bottle
Abruzzo, Italy 12.5% ABV Vegan Vegetarian
Beer & Cider
Peroni
5% ABV
Peroni Gran Riserva
6.6% ABV 330ml
Peroni Gluten Free
5% ABV 330ml
Peroni 0.0%
0.0% ABV 330ml
Spirits
Sipsmith London Dry Gin
White Rum - Calados
Jamesons Irish Whiskey
Jack Daniels
Coffee
Cappuccino
Latte
Flat White
Tea
English Breakfast
Earl Grey
Pure Green
Cosy Club
Cosy Club occupies a handsome first-floor space overlooking Mermaid Quay, combining an all-day menu with a theatrical bar and terrace. It is a useful middle ground when one person wants brunch, another wants a burger and the rest want cocktails and small plates. The room has enough character for a celebration but remains comfortable for families, making it one of the Bay's most adaptable choices from breakfast through dinner.
The current dinner menu rewards sharing before the mains: miso-glazed monkey bread, fried chicken with soy and ginger, or halloumi with hot honey all create strong contrasts. A smash burger supplies familiar comfort, while Malvani chicken curry brings coconut, tamarind and warm spice; the mushroom version gives plant-based diners the same flavour structure. For a lighter meal, combine two small plates with a salad rather than trying to cover every section of the menu.
Address: Unit 24, Mermaid Quay, Cardiff CF10 5BZ, United Kingdom
Cosy Club Cardiff Bay Menu
Breakfast
Served until 12pm.
Classic Breakfast
Cumberland sausage, smoked back bacon, free-range egg any style, hash browns, beans, mushroom, roasted vine tomatoes and toasted sourdough.
The Cosy Butcher’s Brunch with Fried Eggs
Treacle-cured pork belly chop, two Cumberland sausages, smoked back bacon, two free-range eggs any style, hash browns, chorizo beans and toasted sourdough.
Garden Brunch
Halloumi, free-range egg any style, hash browns, mushroom and spinach, roast vine tomatoes, smashed avocado on toasted sourdough.
Cosy Poached Eggs
Free-range poached eggs on toasted sourdough.
Buttered Toasted Sourdough
With Jam, Marmalade OR Marmite.
Cosy Scrambled Eggs
Free-range scrambled eggs on toasted sourdough.
Chorizo Hash
Chorizo, twice-cooked skin-on potatoes, fried egg, spinach, piquillo peppers, tomatoes, pink pickled onions, Aleppo chilli, garlic aioli, chives and lime.
Smoked Salmon, Scrambled Eggs and Avocado
On toasted sourdough.
Dirty Breakfast Butty
Smoked streaky bacon, Cumberland sausage, fried egg, vintage cheddar, hash brown, spinach, bacon jam, served in a brioche bun.
Eggs Benedict
Eggs Benedict with Spinach and Thyme Roasted Mushrooms
Eggs Royale
English muffin, free-range poached eggs, smoked salmon and hollandaise.
Vegan Dirty Breakfast Butty
Vegan sausages, avocado, spinach, hash brown, vegan cheese, chipotle chilli jam, served in a vegan brioche bun.
Smashed Avocado
On toasted sourdough.
American Pancakes Stack of 3
American Pancakes Stack of 6
Topped with smoked streaky bacon, blueberries and maple syrup.
Berry Pancakes Stack of 3
Berry Pancakes Stack of 6
Topped with Greek yoghurt, blueberries, berry compote and chai granola.
Chai Granola Bowl
With Greek yoghurt, blueberries, raspberries and berry compote.
Extras
Hash Browns
Free-range Poached Egg
British Cumberland Sausage
Mushrooms
Free-range Fried Egg
Roasted vine tomatoes
Wilted Spinach
Smoked Back Bacon
Halloumi
Avocado
Streaky Bacon
Smoked Salmon
Cocktails
Aperol Spritz
Aperol topped with soda and sparkling wine. A classic for all occasions.
Limoncello and Elderflower Spritz
Limoncello blended with elderflower, lemon, fresh mint, topped with soda and sparkling wine.
Peach and Pineapple Spritz
Montzi peach liqueur, pineapple, topped with Fever-Tree white grape & apricot soda and sparkling wine.
Bloody Mary
Vodka, tomato juice, spiced Bloody Mary mix, celery and black pepper.
Virgin Mary
Glass of Prosecco
Cosy Mimosa
Juices and Smoothies
Morning Cooler
Lemon, elderflower and mint, finished with soda & cucumber.
Watermelon and Basil Cooler
Watermelon, basil, pineapple juice & soda.
Pure Orange Juice
100% cold pressed oranges.
Wonder Greens Prebiotic Smoothie
Spinach, kale, and avocado whirl with mango, apple, and banana for a creamy, chlorophyll-rich sip, boosted by spirulina, gut-nourishing prebiotic fibre, and probiotics for all-round vitality.
Berry Bliss Prebiotic Smoothie
Bursting with blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries, blended with apple and banana, this antioxidant powerhouse will keep your gut in peak form.
Ginger Glow Prebiotic Smoothie
Orange and lemon juices meet warming ginger, turmeric, and a dash of black pepper, bolstering immunity and aiding digestion.
Giggling Squid – Cardiff Bay
Giggling Squid pairs Thai cooking with one of Mermaid Quay's most attractive waterfront positions. The colourful botanical room and terrace suit a date or lively group meal, while lunch tapas make the restaurant practical for diners who want several flavours without a long dinner. Its kitchen is strongest when the table balances crisp, spicy and aromatic dishes rather than ordering several sweet sauces in succession.
Salt and pepper squid is the natural opener, followed by sticky chicken for sweetness and a curry or stir-fry with more savoury depth. A Thai tapas set makes sense at lunch; at dinner, share starters and choose separate mains so that delicate seafood is not overwhelmed by richer dishes. Recent reviews praise the food and view but also show occasional service delays during busy celebrations, so allowing time before a show is a sensible precaution.
Address: Upper 9-10, Mermaid Quay, Cardiff CF10 5BZ, United Kingdom
Giggling Squid - Cardiff Bay Menu
Thai Tapas Lunch Sets
Available 12pm-4pm
Forager Set
Vegetable Green Curry, Crispy Fried Mushroom Salad with Cashews, Veg Spring Roll & Jasmine Rice.
Amber Honey Set
Crispy Honey Duck, Chicken Cashew Stir Fry, Veg Spring Roll & Jasmine Rice.
Scrummy Set
Caramelised Pork Belly, Spring Roll, Chicken Thai Red Curry & Jasmine Rice.
Bangkok Chinatown Set
Chicken Pad Prik Sod, Garlic Stir Fry Prawns, Salt & Pepper Chilli Mushrooms & Yellow Garlic Noodles.
Melt in Mouth Set
Prawn Paneang Curry, Chicken Satay, Jicama Salad & Jasmine Rice.
Sea Breeze Set
Sea Bass with Spicy Green Sauce, Steamed Chicken & Prawn Dumplings, Morning Glory & Chickpea Salad.
Big Wallet Set
Lamb Massaman Curry, Yummy Duck Spring Rolls, Samui Zingy Prawns & Jasmine Rice.
Kids Tapas Set
Little ones are covered too. Gentle on the spice, big on the flavour! Build Your Own - Yummy Veg are standard on this Tapas
Kids Boiled Broccoli & Carrots
First Pick
Spring Rolls
Moo Ping Pork Skewers
Salt & Pepper Squid Bites
Sticky Chicken
Chicken Satay Skewers
Mild Chicken Massaman Curry
Kids Mild Massaman Veg Curry
Jasmine Rice
Egg Fried Rice
Stir Fry Yellow Noodles
Nibbles & Bar Snacks
Prawn Crackers
Shrimply the best. Served with sweet chilli sauce.
Crunchy Noodle Nests
Cracker bites with shattered noodles and zingy herbs.
Spicy Popcorn Chicken
A street food favourite. Thai style popcorn chicken.
Golden Flying Prawns
Crispy golden butterfly prawns with crispy garlic, lemongrass and dried shallot.
Thai Crispy Chicken Wings
Crispy Thai fried chicken wings with papaya salad.
Chilli Chickpeas
Crispy fried chickpeas, dusted with chilli seasoning.
Golden Money Bags
Crispy pastry parcels of Thai-spiced chicken, herbs and vegetables. Dunk in homemade sweet chilli sauce.
Sharing Platters
Street Food Sharer
Moo Ping Pork Skewers, Salt & Pepper Squid, Spring Rolls, Thai Crispy Chicken Wings.
Bangkok Bites
Yummy Duck Spring Rolls, Golden Money Bags, Crispy Slow-cooked Beef, Spicy Popcorn Chicken.
Satay Four Ways
A selection of marinated skewers - Moo Dang Pork, Chicken, Grilled Squid and Butterfly Prawn.
Sides & Starters
Grab a few for the table and get stuck in.
Salt & Pepper Squid
Juicy squid in a crunchy, golden coating.
Tall Husband's Favourite
Crispy-edged salmon with lemongrass, lime, ginger, toasted coconut flakes. Wrap it up and eat the whole thing.
Prawn & Squid Herb Lettuce Cups
Light and refreshing.
Caramelised Pork Belly
Wok fried with maple syrup, chilli and tamarind.
Classic Papaya Salad
A burst of sweet, sour, salty and spice in every mouthful.
Tamarind Mushrooms & Greens
Tossed in a sweet and tangy tamarind sauce.
Veg Spring Rolls
Served with homemade sweet chilli sauce.
Yummy Duck Spring Rolls
Served with a sweet spring roll sauce.
Moo Ping
Smoked, juicy, chargrilled pork skewers with a spicy tamarind dip.
Salt & Pepper Chilli Mushrooms
Served with sweet chilli sauce.
Samui Zingy Prawns
Drizzled with a fresh citrussy sauce.
Khao Mok Pla
A folded lotus leaf parcel packed with fragrant, wok-fried rice and curried fish. A recipe Persian traders brought to Southern Thailand centuries ago.
Khao Mok Moo
Same beautiful lotus leaf parcel, but with chilli pork instead of fish.
Chicken Satay
Served with pickled vegetables and peanut sauce.
Noodles
In Thailand, noodles belong to everyone. Order One as your or pile them in the middle for the table.
Yellow Noodle Tamarind Duck
Crispy duck leg served on a bed of turmeric noodles drizzled with tamarind ginger sauce.
Chicken & Prawn Glass Noodles
Large, flat glass noodles tossed in a spicy seafood sauce with cha plu leaf. An unusual noodle side dish, served chilled.
Pad Thai
Staple food for island hopping backpackers. Tastes best with a beer! Choose from: Giant Butterfly King Prawn, Chicken, Prawn, Chicken & Prawn, Vegetable, Vegan.
Drunken Noodles
Local name Pad Kee Mao. Legendary hangover cure. Flat noodles, coconut tips, chilli & green peppercorns. Quite a kick! Choose from: Chicken, Prawn, Chicken & Prawns, Vegetable.
Live Long Noodles
Traditional noodle dish from northeastern Thailand - fresh greens and yellow noodles tossed in the wok with sweet-tangy sauce. Garnished with sliced chillies and a drizzle of crushed chilli oil.
Garlic Steamed Noodles
The ideal noodle side. Think of it as your rice alternative.
Stir Fries
Thais usually have these as sharing dishes for the table.
Sticky Chicken
Bite-sized, sweet and sticky deliciousness. Impossible not to love.
Wholesome Cashew
Brimming with delicious flavour. Roasted cashew nuts, mushrooms, peppers, onions and chilli. Choose from: Chicken, Duck, Prawn, Vegetable.
Pak Choi & Tenderstems
Fresh greens stir-fried with sliced red chilli, crushed garlic and our house stir fry sauce.
Chilli & Basil Gra Pao
Thailand's everyday staple, eaten from street corners to home kitchens across the whole country. Fiery chillies, garlic, bamboo shoots and green beans. Choose from: Chicken, Prawn, Vegetable.
Big Appetites
Feisty Chicken Khua Kling
A dry stir fry from the kitchens of Southern Thailand. Minced chicken, bamboo shoots, holy basil and green aubergine. Light, fresh and full of heat.
Spicy Crispy Pork Belly
The pork belly that bites back. Seriously spicy pork tossed in Gra Pao sauce, shrimp paste and Thai red chilli paste.
Morning Glory
Leafy, long-stemmed greens, stir fried with garlic, red chilli and soya bean paste.
Lamb Shank Massaman
A Giggling original on our menu from day one. Lamb shank slow-cooked for 12 hours to melting perfection in a rich massaman sauce with potatoes, carrots and cashew.
Red Duck Rising Star
Rich red curry with roast duck, juicy star fruit, fresh pineapple and pea aubergines. Tall Husband's longtime favourite!
Tamarind Duck Confit
Lovely and crispy on the outside and served with sweet, tangy tamarind sauce. I made this for Tall Husband after we picked fresh tamarind along the Mekong River. Very romantic!
Thai Melting Beef
Tender beef slow-cooked for 9 hours. Served in a rich velvety red curry sauce with cha plu leaves, fresh green beans and sweetheart cabbage.
Seafood Specials
Sea Bass Samun Prai
Whole fish fried until crispy, skinned and served with a fresh salad to cut through the heat.
Prawn & Soft Shell Crab
One of Pranee's favourites. Butterfly prawns and battered soft shell crab with a coconut milk, yellow curry broth.
Whole Sea Bass Green Curry
The dish you'd find flying out of every local Thai restaurant. Whole sea bass in a classic Thai green curry sauce with aubergine, pea aubergine, krachai and bamboo strips.
Chilli Lime Sea Bass
Sea bass steamed to perfection and dressed to impress with fresh Thai herbs and a fiery, lime-infused sauce.
Steamed Seafood Feast
Order like a local. Squid, prawns and sea bass steamed with lemongrass, galangal and lime leaf.
Red Prawn Hot Pot
King-size prawns in a rich, red curry-infused broth with coconut milk, tamarind and lemongrass.
Salmon Paneang
Salmon fillet in paneang curry sauce with stir fried tenderstem broccoli and pak choi.
Classic Curry
Choose from: Chicken, Slow-cooked Beef, Prawn, Vegetable.
Thai Green
The slightly more fiery cousin of the Thai Red Curry with green chillies, garlic and lemongrass in a silky coconut sauce.
Thai Red
An aromatic blend of iconic Thai spices. Red chillies, lemongrass, lime leaf, galangal simmered in rich coconut sauce. Despite its fiery colour, it's not so spicy.
Paneang
A type of red curry thickened with coconut milk and fragranced with roasted cumin and coriander seeds.
Massaman
A curry with mythical origins and legendary flavours! Simmered in coconut milk and perfumed with cardamom, cinnamon and star anise with cashew nuts.
Jungle Firepot
Slow cooked beef only. This one earns its name. Tender beef, aubergine, fine beans and pea aubergines simmered in a fiery, bold broth.
Rice & Roti
Jasmine rice
Sticky Rice
Egg Fried Rice
Fluffy jasmine rice wok fried with egg, peas, sweetcorn and carrots.
Coconut Rice
Roti
Light, golden brown roti - the perfect side for moping up Thai curries.
Desserts
Save room for afters!
Thai Apple Pie Spring Rolls
Crunchy pastry dusted in cinnamon sugar. Served with sweet coconut milk & vanilla ice cream.
Coconut Pudding with Mango Lime Sauce
Deliciously smooth and creamy panna cotta texture. The perfect cool ending after hot and spicy mains.
Mother in Law's Chocolate Mousse
Highlight of regular family trips to tall Husband's parents in Cornwall. I persuaded Mum to let me steal the recipe.
Lychee Yoghurt Ice Cream
Thai Salted Caramel Ice Cream
Cookies & Cream Ice Cream
Vanilla Ice Cream
Soft Drinks
Still Water 330ml
Pepsi Max
Diet Pepsi
Pineapple Banana Coconut Smoothie
Tastes too good to be healthy? Don’t be fooled - it’s packed with fruit, vitamins, minerals and a dash of coconut milk.
Still Water 750ml
Pepsi
Mango Passion Smoothie
Packed full of tropical flavours - mango, passion fruit, apple, banana, orange, peach and lime -this smoothie adds the exotic to the everyday!
7up Zero
Tea & Coffee
Jasmine Tea
Organic Sencha Green
Lemongrass Tea
Fresh Mint
Single Espresso
Double Espresso
Caffe Latte
Americano
Flat White
Beer & Cider
Chang Large 5% ABV (620ml)
Like normal. Just bigger.
Cobra Zero (330ml)
Delicate, malty and sweet - all the flavour but none of the potency in this most drinkable alcohol-free lager.
Chang 5% ABV (320ml)
A favourite Thai beer and the perfect companion to all things nice and spicy.
Cobra 4.5% ABV (330ml)
Exceptionally smooth, this lager is the perfect companion to any dish, especially those with spicy, complex flavours.
Orchard Pig Reveller Cider 4.5% ABV (500ml)
This gently sparkling vegan friendly cider has fewer bubbles, making it the perfect accompaniment to food.
Wine by the glass
Mount Rozier, Pinot Noir, South Africa
Lush, medium bodied red with a smooth, hint-of-sweetness finish.
Shiraz, Short Mile Bay, South Eastern Australia
Full-bodied with lots of rich berry fruit and a pinch of pepper spice so typical of Shiraz. Enjoy with big flavour dishes such as Spicy & Tasty Chicken.
Petal and Stem, Sauvignon Blanc, New Zealand
Zesty and balanced, with tropical notes of guava and passion fruit (and the prettiest floral label).
Picpoul De Pinet, Reserve Mirou, France
Light and full of zest, think Pinot Grigio, but better! Enjoy with Giggling favourites such as Salt & Pepper Squid and Sticky Chicken.
Rebeland Chenin Blanc, South Africa
Beautiful pale lime colour with a lovely creamy texture and gorgeous aromas of guava, passion fruit and melon.
Rose Monsoon Valley, Thailand
Made from Colombard, Shiraz and Chenin Blanc grapes this delightful Thai rosé has notes of succulent strawberries and tropical fruits.
Rose de Cinsault, Granfort, Pays d'Oc, France
Deliciously light, dry, fruity rosé full of strawberries and raspberries. Pairs happily with all our dishes.
Pinot Grigio Rosato, Corte Vigna, delle Venezie, Italy
Delicate, medium-dry and prettily pink with a touch of strawberry and raspberry sweetness.
Hub Box Cardiff
Hub Box brings its Cornish burger-bar style to the edge of Mermaid Quay. Burgers, hand-cut fries, shakes and local drinks lead the menu, but plant-based and gluten-free choices make it more versatile than a simple meat-and-bun stop. The casual room and Bay views work well for families, dogs and groups who want bold food without the timing or formality of a full-service brasserie.
A classic beef burger is the benchmark, especially when paired with properly crisp fries, while fried chicken and a plant-based burger provide useful contrasts across a group. Loaded fries are best shared because they can dominate a meal on their own, and a salad or slaw brings needed freshness beside richer mains. Current feedback is particularly positive about friendly service and well-cooked burgers, making this a strong choice when appetite and informality matter most.
Address: Unit 23/23A, Mermaid Quay, Cardiff CF10 5BZ, United Kingdom
Hub Box Cardiff Menu
Sides
Small plates for you + your mates.
House Onion Rings
NGCI V VGA
Honey Mustard Slaw
Seasonal coleslaw mix, honey & mustard dressing, chives. NGCI V
Topped Tenders
KBBQ: Crispy chicken tenders, Korean BBQ glaze, gochujang mayo, pickled red chillies, crispy onions, coriander. CAESAR: Crispy chicken tenders, Caesar dressing, Parmesan, crispy onions, chives. PLAIN: Crispy chicken tenders. NGCIA. Choose a dip.
Mac Cheese
Cheese sauce, Monterey Jack, garlic crumb, veggie parm. V
Halloumi Fries
NGCIA V. Choose a dip.
Caesar Side Salad
Gem lettuce, caesar dressing, garlic crumb, veggie parm.
Sauces/Dips
Garlic Mayo
NGCI V
Burger Sauce
NGCI V
BBQ Sauce
NGCI VE
Gochujang Mayo
V
Korean BBQ
VE
Marty's Hot Sauce
NGCI VE
Desserts
Brownie
Warm chocolate brownie, vanilla ice cream. V
Churros
Crispy churros, cinnamon sugar, chocolate dip. VE
Hub Tub
Vanilla ice cream, fudge, chocolate sauce, Cadbury's flake. NGCI, V
Burgers
All our burgers come served in a regenerative flour bun made just for us. All our beef burgers can be double smashed or thick + juicy. Our crispy fried chicken can be griddled on request.
All Star
Dry-aged beef, burger cheese, ketchup, mustard, diced onion & house pickles, shred lettuce. NGCIA VGA
Cheeseburger
Dry-aged beef, westcountry cheddar, burger sauce, slow-cooked onion, shred lettuce. NGCIA
Bacon Double
Dry-aged beef, crispy bacon, burger cheese, BBQ sauce, baconnaise, shred lettuce. NGCIA
Char Siu BBQ
Dry-aged beef, char siu pork, burger cheese, hoisin BBQ sauce, chilli crisp mayo, house pickles, spring onion, shred lettuce. CONTAINS SESAME
Chick 'n Mayo
Crispy fried chicken breast, mayo, shred lettuce. NGCIA VGA
Garlic Butty
Crispy fried chicken breast, Parmesan, garlic mayo, garlic butter, shred lettuce. NGCIA
Chicken Shop
Crispy fried chicken breast, burger cheese, burger sauce, house pickles, shred lettuce. NGCIA
Kim Yum
Crispy fried chicken breast, Korean BBQ glaze, gochujang mayo, kimchi, shred lettuce.
Karaage Kid
Crispy fried oyster mushrooms, takeout curry sauce, miso garlic mayo, spring onion, shred lettuce. NGCIA VE
Big 'Bab
Crispy fried halloumi, tzatziki, Marty's hot sauce, slaw, tomato salsa, pink pickled onion, shred lettuce. NGCIA V
Fries
Seasoned with Cornish sea salt. Upgrade your fries: SPICY VE NGCI +0.50 (Add our cajun spice mix), dIRTY V NGCI +1.50 (Add Hub sauce, diced onion, jalapeños), CHEESY V NGCI +2.00 (Cheese sauce, Monterey Jack, chives).
Skin-on
VE
Sweet Potato
Dirty Fries
Have a good time. Top your fries.
Garlic & Parm Fries
Garlic butter, veggie parm, chives. NGCI V
Chilli Cheese Fries
Beef chilli, cheese sauce, Marty's hot sauce, sour cream, diced onion & candied jalapeños, pickled red chillies, coriander. NGCI
Mother Cluckers
Crispy fried chicken, Korean BBQ sauce, gochujang mayo, cheese sauce, sour cream, pickled red chillies, coriander. VA
Canton Fries
Char siu pork, hoisin BBQ sauce, chilli crisp mayo, cheese sauce, spring onion, coriander. CONTAINS SESAME
Dogs
Big Dog
Free-range beef frank, Heinz ketchup, American mustard, slow-cooked onion.
Chilli Dog
Free-range beef frank, beef chilli, Monterey Jack, American mustard, diced onion & candied jalapeños.
Salad
Caesar Salad
Crispy fried chicken breast, Parmesan, Caesar dressing, garlic crumb, gem lettuce. NGCIA VA
Burger Add-ons
Crispy Bacon
NGCI
Extra Cheese
NGCI V VGA
Candied Jalapenos
NGCI VE
Slow-Cooked Onion
NGCI VE
House Pickles
NGCI VE
Coffee
Our coffee is hand-roasted by Extract Coffee Roasters; a team on a mission to Make Coffee Better. Better for growers, for the community, for the planet + for you. Decaf available – just ask your server.
Americano
Flat White
Latte
Cappuccino
Tea
ALL | 2.85. Loose-leaf pyramid bags from Canton Tea Co. served in a pot.
English Breakfast
Green
Earl Grey
Red Berry
Hot Chocolate
Made with Fair Trade drinking chocolate.
Hot Chocolate
Hot Chocolate with cream + marshmallows
Shakes
5.25. Indulgent, American-style shakes, hand-crafted using fresh whole milk and ice cream.
Biscoff
CONTAINS GLUTEN
Strawberry
Chocolate
Oreo
CONTAINS GLUTEN
House Sodas + Coolers
Made fresh with house-squeezed lemon and lime juice.
Nude-Julep
A softer take on our signature julep - minty fresh with bright fruit notes.
Elder Highball
Crisp apple paited with fragrant elderflower, lifted by fresh citrus.
House Lemonade
Fresh, zingy and made in-house.
House Raspberryade
Tangy, bright and berry-packed.
Softs
Draught | 3.95: Coke, Diet Coke, Lemonade, Fanta. Bottles | 3.95: COKE, DIET COKE, COKE ZERO, FANTA, SPRITE ZERO, APPLETISER.
Coke (Draught)
Diet Coke (Draught)
Lemonade (Draught)
Fanta (Draught)
Wine
175ML • 250ML • BOTTLE. All wines by the glass are also available in a 125ml measure.
Parini Pinot Grigio Italy
Fresh + lively with notes of ripe pear
Waipara Hills Marlborough Sauv Blanc New Zealand
Fresh citrus, grapefruit + melon notes
Vita Sangiovese Italy
Soft + subtle with red fruit flavours, a hint of violet + smooth finish
Santa Rita 8km Merlot Chile
Dominated by plum + blackberries, with a subtle spice + vanilla notes
Beer + Cider
Draught: LIKE THE GREAT BRITISH WEATHER, OUR TAPS CHANGE OFTEN. PLEASE ASK OUR SERVERS OR SIMPLY HAVE A BUTCHERS AT OUR TAPS TO SEE WOSSON! Bottles:
Corona Lager 4.5%
Corona Cero Lager 0%
Bristol Beer Factory Clear Head 0.5%
Sheppy's Elderflower Cider 4%
Merola's
Merola's has served Grangetown since 1986 and feels completely different from the newer waterfront restaurants. This compact, family-run room looks to Campania and the Amalfi Coast for its cues, with homemade pizzas, pasta, calzone, fish and old-school sauces delivered in a warm neighbourhood setting. It opens on a limited weekly schedule, so it is a restaurant to plan for rather than an impulsive fallback.
The make-your-own calzone is a house speciality and suits diners who want something generous, while minestrone, seafood pasta and chicken in lemon, garlic or tomato-based sauces show the kitchen's traditional range. Grilled fish and tiramisu offer a lighter path through the menu. Regulars praise the welcome and consistency, although extras and alterations can change the final bill, so clarify any off-menu request before ordering and keep the meal focused on the classics.
Address: 181 Clare Road, Cardiff CF11 6QS, United Kingdom
Merola's Menu
Hot Starters
Garlic Bread with Mozzarella Cheese
Vegetarian
Homemade Minestrone
Vegetarian
Lasagna
Spaghetti with Garlic, Spiced Olive Oil and Anchovies
Spaghetti Bolognese with Garlic, Spiced Olive Oil and Anchovies
Bruschetta
Vegetarian
King Prawns in Garlic Sauce
Scampi
White Bait
Spare Ribs in Barbecue Sauce
Fried Squid
Corn on the Cob
Vegetarian
Italian Pepper Sausage in Spicy Napolitana Sauce
Mushrooms in Garlic Sauce
Vegetarian
Cold Starters
Fruit Juices
Avocado Vinaigrette
Vegetarian
Avocado Prawns
Vegetarian
Tossed Feta Salad with Black Olives
Vegetarian
Prawn Cocktail
Salami, Olives & Feta
Italian Pasta Dishes
Make your own pasta dish - ask for more details.
Spaghetti Bolognese
Mince Meat Sauce
Spaghetti Sorrento
Cockles, Mussels, Prawns & Plum Tomatoes
Spaghetti Carbonara
Bacon, Egg Yolk, & Fresh Cream
Spaghetti Napoletana
Plum Tomatoes, Garlic, Onions, Oregano. Vegetarian
Tagliatelle Alfredo
Fresh Cream, Mushrooms & Ham
Tagliatelle Alla Matriciana
Peppers, Plum Tomatoes & Bacon
Tagliatelle Bolognese
Mince Meat Sauce
Tagliatelle Merola’s
Plum Tomatoes, Fresh Cream, Mushrooms & Ham
Penne All’ Arrabbiata
Fresh Chilli, Garlic & Plum Tomatoes. Vegetarian
Penne Vegetarian
Onions, Mushrooms, Peppers, Fresh Cream, & Plum Tomatoes. Vegetarian
Lasagna
Mince Meat Sauce
Gnocchi
With any Pasta sauce from the above
Pizza (Home Made)
Make your own pizza, choose your own ingredients, vegetarian options available. 10” Standard Pizza with Plum Tomato Sauce £12.95. Toppings: Mushrooms £1.25, Chicken £1.35, Black Olives £1.05, Onions £1.05, Peppers £1.35, Artichokes £1.55, Oregano £0.75, Garlic £1.15, Tuna £1.75, Mussells £1.45, Pineapple £1.35, Sweetcorn £1.25, Fresh Tomatoes £1.15, Ham £1.45, Anchovies £1.55, Pepper Sausage £1.95, Prawns £1.95, Egg £1.15, Mince Meat £1.95, Bacon £1.75, Spinach(fresh) £1.65, Cockles £1.95, Salami £1.95, Fresh Chillies £1.05, Extra Mozzarella(100%) £2.45.
10” Standard Pizza with Plum Tomato Sauce
Merola’s Special
Make your own calzone, choose your own ingredients, vegetarian options available.
Calzone Spinach & Ham
Calzone with Mushrooms
Calzone Seafood
Calzone Mince Meat & Cheese
Calzone Vegetarian
Vegetarian
Steak Dishes
Sirloin
Meatballs
with spaghetti or chips
Fillet (When available)
T Bone
Spare Ribs
House Sauces
Garlic Sauce
Red Wine Sauce
Demiglase, Red Wine & Brandy
Pizzaiola
Olives, Capers, Anchovies, Plum Tomatoes, Oregano & Wine
Chef’s Special
Fresh Garlic, Demiglase, Fresh Cream & Wine
Pepper Corn Sauce
Brandy, Wine, Crushed Black Pepper, Fresh Cream & Demiglase
The House Sauce
Mushrooms, Peppers, Fresh Cream, Wine, Plum Tomatoes & French Mustard
Fish Dishes
Grilled Trout
Grilled Fillet of Lemon Sole
Sole Seafood
Cockles, Mussels, Prawns, Wine & Fresh Cream
King Prawns with Garlic and Lemon Sauce
Sole Merola’s
Wine, Fresh Cream & Plum Tomatoes
Scampi (Breaded)
Mussels
With Garlic & Lemon or Arrabbiata Sauce
Grilled Salmon
Fillet of Sea Bass
Chicken Dishes
Pollo Cesare
Sliced Ham, Sliced Cheddar Cheese, Wine & Plum Tomatoes
Pollo Merola’s
Mushrooms, Onions, Peppers, Wine, Plum Tomatoes & Fresh Cream
Pollo Aglio Limone
Fresh Lemon, Fresh Garlic & Wine
Pollo Alla Crema
Fresh Cream, Mushrooms & Wine
Pollo Cacciatore
Mushrooms, Olives, Onions, Plum Tomatoes & Wine
Pollo Alla Diavola
Plum Tomatoes, Fresh Chilli & Garlic
Pollo in Pepper Corn sauce
Extras
Salad
Cauliflower in Batter
Peppers
Garlic Bread
Chips
Spicy Chips
Kalamata Olives
Mushrooms
Fried Onion Rings
Dessert
Chocolate Fudge Cake
Ice Cream
Profiteroles
Italian Cheese Cake
Homemade Tiramisu
Hot Drinks
Coffee
Espresso
Coffee Cream
Cappuccino
Tea with Milk or Lemon
Coffee with Liquor
Final Thoughts
The strength of this part of Cardiff is its range within a short distance. Mermaid Quay can move from Japanese sushi to Thai small plates, French classics, pizza, burgers and Latin American sharing food without losing sight of the water. Grangetown and Dumballs Road add the deeper local character: Vegetarian Food Studio's regional Indian cooking, The Classroom's seasonal ambition and Merola's decades-old Italian identity.
For the most distinctive meal, start with Yakitori1, The Classroom or Vegetarian Food Studio. Choose Giggling Squid, Côte or Cosy Club when the view and the occasion matter equally, and head to Hub Box, Las Iguanas or Zizzi when a mixed group needs breadth and an easy pace. Merola's is the rewarding counterpoint: smaller, more personal and best approached with a booking and an appetite for traditional favourites.