While it may not be open late, I think The Secret Garden is the perfect way to kick off date night. I personally love an evening stroll through Bute park, coconut matcha lattes and cake. Well, The Secret Garden offers all three. Many a time I have met my boyfriend there for a drink and a sweet treat and leisurely strolled through the park, before returning home to cook dinner together and watch a movie. Date night doesn’t always have to mean dressing up and dining out. Instead, we prefer the casual, friendly, and relaxed atmosphere of The Secret Garden. I would highly recommend this café to anyone going on a first date a well as a regular date. Being able to sit on a nearby bench in the park will definitely take away the awkward stress and formality of meeting a special someone for the first time. If you don’t fancy something sweet, share a potato-wedge box as your aperitif to your evening that follows. Some of my fondest memories with my boyfriend have been sitting on a park bench in the evening with my coconut matcha latte and enjoying the picturesque setting of The Secret Garden. There’s only one place in Cardiff I regularly return to for good food, good drinks, and the perfect date: The Secret Garden.
Words by Jessica Fotheringham
Last February, I visited Maison de Boeuf for the first time on a Valentine’s date night with my boyfriend. Tucked away in the Castle Arcade, it sits between Gin & Juice and Rum & Fizz—ideal spots for a pre-dinner cocktail. The moody, low-lit ambiance of all three makes for a perfect escape from student life, offering a chance to dress up, unwind, and soak in the cosy jazz music while sipping on something decadent.
Since that first visit, I’ve returned multiple times, and each experience transports me to a romantic evening in Paris. The combination of music, décor, and exquisite food creates an atmosphere that feels effortlessly chic and undeniably special. Maison de Boeuf offers a two- or three-course menu for around £30 per person, serving up authentic French flavours that never disappoint.
For starters, I’ve sampled both the Cheese Soufflé and French Onion Soup—both beautifully warm, rich, and undeniably Parisian, though satisfyingly filling. The main course is refreshingly simple yet indulgent: steak and frites, also available in a vegan version. One of the restaurant’s unique touches which I love is the offering of an extra serving of steak once you’ve finished— great if like me- your significant other has a bigger appetite! If you manage to save room for dessert, I highly recommend the hazelnut mousse-filled choux pastry. Just be prepared—you might need to loosen your jeans afterwards!
With its deliciously authentic cuisine, intimate jazz-infused ambiance, and exceptional value for money, Maison de Boeuf is an underrated gem and the ultimate romantic dining spot for your next date night – you won’t be disappointed!
Words by Lily Portch
Now, you should know reading this the date part is entirely hypothetical from me, however, the food part? Very real. My chosen restaurant is the Cardiff Townhouse, in the Coppa Club family. It’s just got a certain something about it that says luxury, while maintaining a reasonable price point for those loans.
From the moment you step inside, you’re welcomed by the warm, inviting décor that blends modern elegance with cosy charm. It really feels as though Art Deco has had a recent update. The soft lighting, plush seating, and beautifully designed interiors create an intimate atmosphere ideal for meaningful conversations and shared moments.
Start your evening at the bar downstairs, before climbing a lovely twisting staircase, that feels like a dress with a train can only do justice. If cocktails aren’t your thing, the extensive wine list and curated craft beers offer something for every taste, as well as multitudes of mocktails.
The menu at Coppa Club Cardiff Townhouse is designed to impress. Share a selection of small plates, such as crispy calamari or burrata with heritage tomatoes, or indulge in heartier dishes like the sirloin steak or truffle-infused pasta. The quality ingredients and beautifully presented dishes make for a truly special dining experience. My favourite was the sausage and fennel pasta I had in November, but the burgers give good competition.
Words by Poppy Adams
Featured image courtesy of Anthony Mucci via Unsplash. License found here.