With a dining scene centred around locally sourced ingredients, wholesome dishes and good honest service, you can always count on Welsh eateries to bring their A-game. From terrace bars overlooking the seaside to award-winning haunts and the UK's favourite steakhouse, here are the top restaurants in Wales that you need in your life.
Last edited by Lauren Cole
A Welsh restaurant in Swansea that boasts views, brunch and cocktails? It can only be Oyster House. This charming spot with its stunning terrace bar is the ideal escape for foodies. Menu highlights include roasted lamb, duck croquettes and an epic surf 'n' turf.
If you're a fan of bar menus that consist of small plates and cocktails, you'll probably consider Ten Degrees to be one of the top restaurants in South Wales. Fill up on hearty dishes in the impressive main dining area, or opt for casual drinks and tapas in the cosy den-like lounge.
Flaunting daytime discounts and all your favourite Italian dishes, Llandudno's Wildwood is one of the best restaurants in North Wales. Satisfy your hunger and taste buds with calamari, beef ragu, a vegan lasagne or something else from the extensive menu.
It's no surprise that UK-renowned Gaucho is one of the best restaurants in Cardiff. This Argentinian steakhouse oozes luxury, from its world-class food to the sophisticated interiors. Sink your teeth into wagyu burgers, delicately marbled cuts of meat and some irresistible side plates – with a six-strong sauce selection that's ready to elevate any dish.
The Pod in Newport is a stylish cocktail bar boasting tasty street food and drinks worth raving about. From quirky burgers to bao buns and nachos, catch up with your fellow foodies either inside or in one of the fairy-lit private domes. Take note of their weekend happy hour and epic Sunday roast offering.
BrewStone is a rustic Swansea haunt fit for any occasion; whether you're in need of a hearty breakfast, a steak dinner or a cocktail-fuelled night on the town – this destination delivers. There's even a daytime deal on weekdays, where you can bag a dish and drink for under £10, making it one of the best restaurants in Wales for lunch.
Feel right at home with a comforting meal at family-owned eatery Ciliegino. Bringing an authentic taste of Italy to Cardiff, this place is single-handedly showing locals what real pizza and pasta looks like. Expect the perfect carbonara, bolognese done right and a margherita that will blow you away – plus lots of other lesser-known plates.
Hunker down at the cosy family-friendly pub, boasting a big ol' menu of grub that's guaranteed to make you drool. The Railway Hotel in Penarth is a quaint and relaxed place to enjoy a belly-warming meal, featuring anything from nachos to sticky pork burgers and flavour-packed pies.
Consider Mowgli the only place to go in Cardiff for Indian street food. Sit among fairy lights while tucking into unique plates like roti wraps, chilli cheese toasties and spiced chip butties. Make your meal even better thanks to classic cocktails with a twist; think masala espresso martinis and mango margaritas.
Award-winning Hanson at The Chelsea is hands down one of the best restaurants in West Wales. This Swansea knock-out champions sustainably-sourced seafood, served in chic interiors that will make any night feel like a special occasion. Their signature fish and chips is a must-try.
On the hunt for Michelin star restaurants in South Wales? With an honourable mention in the guide, Cardiff's Thomas comes extremely close. Combining French and British cuisine – created from the finest Welsh produce – this is one eatery you don't want to miss. From brunch to a stonking Sunday roast, there's always a reason to visit.
Asador 44 is doing justice to traditional northern Spanish cooking with a winning menu made from locally sourced ingredients. Chargrilled meat, fish and vegetables take centre stage, with a little help from the custom-built wood fire grill. They also have a dedicated wine room and cheese cave... just sayin'.
This neighbourhood restaurant is serving up epic seasonal plates in a relaxed setting. Heaneys' fine dining-esque tasting menu showcases a multitude of unique dishes, best paired with cocktails that also change throughout the year.
