Once a lovely old chapel dating back to – you guessed it – 1877, this space has been extravagantly converted into a stylish restaurant and bar spread across three floors. Situated in Cardiff city centre, just a short walk from the train station, Chapel 1877 offers a unique drinking and dining experience that’s proved popular with locals and visitors alike.
The ground floor houses an informal gastro bar where guests can drop in for anything from a cup of coffee in the morning to a glass of Champagne or a meal from the bar menu in the afternoon or evening. The kitchen here serves up bistro fare, such as sandwiches, burgers, and fish and chips alongside snacks, desserts and a well-stocked bar.
If you’re after something a little more formal, book a table in the mezzanine dining area with its open kitchen, curtained booths and views of the bar. The surroundings are striking yet cosy thanks to chandeliers and modern furnishings juxtaposed with the original stained glass and soaring arches designed by the architect Henry C Harris.
The food has more of a sense of occasion here, without being overly fussy – expect a trendy take on classics such as red onion tarte Tatin with Pant-Ysgawn goats’ cheese and rocket or confit and roasted free-range pork belly with bubble and squeak, cider jus and crackling. There are grills too, served up with homemade coleslaw or chips. Vegetarian and vegan guests are well catered for as well, with the likes of butternut squash, sage and amaretto tart, and roast root vegetable and wild mushroom nut roast with rosemary roast potatoes and spiced tomato sauce. For dessert, maybe chocolate and peanut butter torte with peanut brittle and Chantilly cream or a selection of vegan ice creams and sorbets. Prices are higher than in neighbouring restaurants, but well worth paying.