Best restaurants in Mermaid Quay

Cardiff was recently named one of the top ten cities to live in Europe, and it’s not hard to see why. From the historic Cardiff Castle in the heart of the city to natural attractions like Flat Holm Island, you’ll never be short of things to do. There are plenty of indoor activities for colder months like museums, cathedrals and churches, cosy pubs and cafés and excellent restaurants, plus when it's warm, the wetlands reserve and Aqua Park are a must.

Updated on 11 December 2023

The completion of Cardiff Bay in 1999 was one of the largest engineering projects in Europe. The project created a 500-acre freshwater lake with eight miles of waterfront. This waterfront is now home to Mermaid Quay, a shopping and dining centre overlooking the bay.

Mermaid Quay, like Cardiff, has a lot to offer. Stop in at The Glee, Cardiff’s first comedy club, or visit the Everyman to catch a film. Those who are visiting can stock up on gifts to take home at Zia Boutique or Fabulous Welshcakes, or get pampered at the award-winning Ken Picton Salon.

Mermaid Quay also has an Aquabus waterbus tour, offering trips around the bay and beyond. The centre is always being added to and updated, making it one of the best spots to visit for food and drink by the waterside. Some of the restaurants on the upper level even have terraces where the spectacular views of the bay can be enjoyed over an Aperol Spritz…

We’ve scoped out the best restaurants in Mermaid Quay, from fancy French brasseries and secret gin gardens through to places for a quick bite and restaurants you’ll want to enjoy all day. All you have to do is peruse the list and decide what you like the look of. From brunch to burgers, tempura to tacos, pulled pork to pints, we’ve got you covered.

Yakitori1

Yakitori1

Unit 10, Mermaid Quay, Cardiff, Cardiff, CF10 5BZ

Yakitori1 focuses on three things: quality, locality and sharing. This relaxed Japanese eatery turns out a huge range of dishes, each carefully prepared to embody those three values. Choose from yakitori, starters like gyoza or edamame, tempura, sashimi, stir fry dishes, curries or ramen - truly something for everyone. We recommend going as a group to cover as much ground as possible.

£30 - £49
Sushi
Japanese
Signor Valentino

Signor Valentino

Mermaid Quay, Unit Upper 15, Cardiff, CF10 5BZ

Up on the first floor of Mermaid Quay, you’ll find Signor Valentino, which arguably has the prime spot. While many Mermaid Quay restaurants offer amazing views, Signor Valentino has a secret weapon - a terrace for al fresco dining. From this outdoor vantage point, diners can enjoy traditional Italian dishes like calamari, lasagne and pizza.

£30 - £49
Italian
Las Iguanas - Mermaid Quay

Las Iguanas - Mermaid Quay

Ground Floor, Mermaid Quay, Cardiff Bay, Cardiff, Cardiff, CF10 5BZ

With over 30 years worth of experience of serving boldly spiced Latin American food to delighted diners, Las Iguanas is a chain that knows what it’s doing. Ideal for a quick lunch or evening feast, this branch boasts an extensive menu and happy hour cocktails every day.

Under £30
South American
Cosy Club Cardiff Bay

Cosy Club Cardiff Bay

Unit 24 - Mermaid Quay, Cardiff, Cardiff, CF10 5BZ

What better way to enjoy the excellent waterside views Mermaid Quay has to offer than with brunch and a mimosa? Well, that dream can become a reality at Cosy Club, where brunch can be bottomless for those who so wish. Choose from classic dishes like a full English, huevos rancheros, or buttermilk pancakes, then enjoy unlimited Bloody Mary’s, Mimosas or Prosecco.

Under £30
North American
The Dock

The Dock

Mermaid Quay, Unit 1 & U1, Cardiff, CF10 5BZ

Keeping in the relaxed theme, The Dock is a casual bar and kitchen offering a huge selection of global dishes and drinks. Small plates include the likes of tacos and buttermilk chicken sliders, while burgers, steaks and salads are typical mains. Wash it all down with a house cocktail or pint while looking out over the bay.

Under £30
Gastropub
Bill

Bill's Restaurant & Bar - Cardiff Bay

Pilotage Building, Cardiff, Cardiff, CF10 5BW

Bill's brings a crowd wherever it's located, and that's no different at Mermaid Quay. Known for it's failsafe breakfast options and settings perfect for large groups, this is perfect anything from big celebrations to friendly reunions.

£30 - £49
British
Chans Noodle Bar

Chans Noodle Bar

Unit 20, Cardiff Bay, Cardiff, CF10 5BZ

Chans Noodle Bar is a combination of super quick service, bold flavours and pared back dining - what's not to love? Tuck into anything from comforting noodle soups to sweet and sour chicken, or share a selection of dumplings and bao buns with friends.

£30 - £49
Chinese
Demiros

Demiros

Unit 26, Mermaid Quay, Cardiff, CF10 5BZ

Demiro’s has been a staple of Mermaid Quay for over 15 years, and it’s not hard to see why. This friendly Italian restaurant with classically trained singing waiters has a fun atmosphere, and with 200 covers, it’s great for bigger gatherings like birthdays. 

£30 - £49
Italian
Hub Box

Hub Box

Unit 23/23A, Mermaid Quay, Cardiff, Cardiff, CF10 5BZ

When it comes to burgers by the bay, head to Hub Box. The menu here covers all the bases, with plenty of beef and chicken burgers, veggie burgers, and vegan options too (which feature the super-popular Beyond patties). Hub Box also has some playful British twists on classic cocktails like the Cornish Colada.

Under £30
Burgers
Wagamama Cardiff Mermaid Quay

Wagamama Cardiff Mermaid Quay

Upper Level, Mermaid Quay, Cardiff, Cardiff, CF10 5BZ

Of course, no food guide to a place like Mermaid Quay would be complete without mentioning Wags. It’s rare to find a chain that’s so consistent with such a large menu. Choose from much-loved classics like chilli squid, gyoza, katsu, donburi bowls or noodle dishes like yakisoba. Plus, there is now an entirely separate vegan and gluten-free menu.

Under £30
Pan Asian
Japanese

If you're looking to spread your wings and explore the food scene beyond Mermaid Quay, then you'll want to check out our list of best restaurants in Cardiff. This combines everything from waterside eateries to vegetarian Indian cuisine, and for those hoping to really splash the cash, Cardiff boasts it's own Michelin star restaurant Home at Penarth. Whatever you're in the mood for, this Welsh capital offers something for everyone with it's globetrotting list of restaurants and varying budgets.

Join SquareMeal Rewards

Collect points, worth at least £1, every time you book online and dine at a participating restaurant.

Start Collecting Points

Already a member? Sign in