Casanova: Intimate Italian Dining in Cardiff’s Historic Quay Street
Authentic regional Italian cuisine in a cozy, intimate setting with exceptional service and an extensive Italian wine selection.
Casanova is a refined Italian restaurant nestled on Cardiff’s Quay Street, celebrated for its authentic regional Italian cuisine crafted with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The intimate two-floor venue offers a cozy, welcoming atmosphere complemented by attentive service and an extensive Italian wine list. With a concise, seasonally inspired menu featuring dishes like pappardelle with venison ragù and Welsh lamb rump, Casanova is a favored destination for special occasions and relaxed dining in the city center.
A brief summary to Casanova
- 13 Quay St., Cardiff, CF10 1EA, GB
- +442921400168
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 12 pm-2:30 pm
- Tuesday 12 pm-2:30 pm
- Wednesday 12 pm-2:30 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-2:30 pm
- Friday 12 pm-2:30 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-2:30 pm
Local tips
- Book ahead to secure a table, especially for dinner and weekends, as the restaurant is popular and intimate.
- Try the tasting menu for a full experience of the chef’s seasonal specialties paired with Italian wines.
- Inform staff of any dietary restrictions in advance to enjoy personalized menu adaptations.
- Consider the set lunch menu for excellent value with two or three courses at a moderate price.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Casanova location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Casanova
A Taste of Italy in the Heart of Cardiff
Located at 13 Quay Street, Casanova brings a slice of Italy to Cardiff’s vibrant city center. This unpretentious trattoria has been a cherished dining spot for over two decades, offering regional Italian gastronomy with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. The restaurant’s philosophy centers on simplicity and authenticity, blending premium Italian imports with local Welsh produce to create dishes that are both traditional and innovative.Atmosphere and Ambience
Spread over two discreet floors, Casanova exudes a warm and intimate ambiance. The cozy setting invites diners to unwind and savor their meals in a relaxed environment. Lighting is soft and welcoming, enhancing the convivial atmosphere that makes it a popular choice for date nights and celebratory dinners. Despite its intimate size, the restaurant maintains a friendly and attentive service style, with staff often adapting dishes to suit individual tastes and dietary needs.Menu Highlights and Culinary Craftsmanship
The menu at Casanova is deliberately concise, ensuring each dish is prepared fresh to order with meticulous attention to detail. Signature offerings include pasta dishes such as pappardelle with venison and pork ragù, fresh fish sourced from local markets, and Welsh lamb rump served with creamy Parmesan mash. The kitchen applies modern techniques to traditional recipes, resulting in complex flavors that remain true to Italian culinary heritage. Seasonal specials often feature slow-cooked meats and rich sauces, complemented by thoughtfully paired Italian wines.Wine and Dining Experience
Casanova boasts an extensive wine list focused exclusively on Italian selections, curated to harmonize with the menu’s diverse flavors. Knowledgeable staff guide guests through the options, ensuring perfect pairings that enhance the dining experience. For those seeking a comprehensive taste of the kitchen’s offerings, a tasting menu presents a curated five-course journey showcasing the chef’s talents.Value and Visitor Considerations
The restaurant offers excellent value, particularly through its well-regarded set lunch menu, which provides two or three courses at reasonable prices. While the tables are positioned close together, fostering a bustling yet intimate environment, this arrangement may limit privacy. Casanova is family friendly and accommodates various dietary preferences, including vegan and gluten-free options upon request.Legacy and Local Significance
Casanova stands out in Cardiff’s dining scene for its dedication to authentic Italian cuisine and consistent quality. It has earned a loyal following among locals and visitors alike, praised for its flavorful dishes, attentive service, and charming atmosphere. The restaurant’s blend of tradition and modernity, combined with its commitment to fresh, seasonal ingredients, secures its place as a culinary landmark in the city.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Historical Wales
0.1 km
Explore Historical Wales, a charming gift shop in Cardiff, offering unique souvenirs that embody the rich culture and heritage of Wales.
Cardiff Town Wall
0.2 km
Step back into medieval Cardiff with the ancient Town Wall, a striking relic offering history, architecture, and panoramic city views.
Fogo's Free Tours
0.3 km
Explore the vibrant history and culture of Cardiff with Fogo's Free Tours – an engaging experience for every traveler.
John Batchelor Statue
0.3 km
A Victorian radical immortalised in bronze, standing where Cardiff’s political battles once raged.
Nereid Statue
0.4 km
A bronze sea nymph offering mythological protection to Cardiff's maritime legacy
Cardiff Central Train Station Water Tower
0.5 km
A historic Grade II listed water tower overlooking Cardiff Central Station and the River Taff, symbolizing the city’s rich railway heritage.
South African War Memorial
0.5 km
A poignant bronze and stone tribute in Cardiff honoring Welsh soldiers who served in the Second Boer War, embodying peace, war, and grief.
City Hall
0.6 km
Majestic Edwardian Baroque landmark and civic heart of Cardiff, crowned by a striking clock tower with a Welsh dragon.
Capitol Cardiff
0.7 km
Discover the heart of Cardiff at Capitol Cardiff, a shopping center offering diverse retail options, dining experiences, and a taste of local culture.
The Gathering - Cardiff
0.7 km
Victorian Neogothic landmark and active faith community in the heart of Cardiff
Water Towers by Amber Hiscott & David Pearl
0.7 km
Iconic blue sculptural towers in Cardiff symbolizing water through innovative glass and metal artistry.
Mountain of Fire & Miracles Ministries Cardiff.
0.7 km
A dynamic Christian church in the Capitol Shopping Centre, offering daily worship, prayer, and community in the heart of Cardiff.
Alexandra Gardens
0.7 km
Discover the beauty and history of Alexandra Gardens in Cardiff, a peaceful retreat filled with stunning landscapes and rich cultural significance.
Wales National War Memorial
0.7 km
A solemn Gothic Revival monument in Cardiff honoring Welsh soldiers who sacrificed their lives in both World Wars.
Statue of The Second Marquess of Bute
0.7 km
Historic bronze statue in Cardiff honoring the visionary who transformed the city through the development of its docks and industrial growth.
Unmissable attractions to see
Blue Bell
0.1 km
Discover the charm of The Blue Bell, Cardiff's premier pub for traditional food, local ales, and a warm atmosphere in the heart of the city.
8 St Mary St
0.1 km
Historic Victorian commercial site in Cardiff’s Castle Quarter, blending rich heritage with vibrant city life.
High Street Arcade
0.1 km
A beautifully preserved Victorian shopping arcade in Cardiff’s Castle Quarter, filled with independent boutiques, vintage shops, cafés, and historic charm.
The Cardiff Market
0.1 km
Discover Cardiff Market’s vibrant Victorian charm, where fresh local produce and unique stalls create a lively city-centre shopping experience.
Cardiff Market
0.1 km
A bustling Victorian indoor market in Cardiff city centre, alive with fresh produce, street food, vintage finds and local character under a grand glass roof.
Firing Line Cardiff Castle Museum of the Welsh Soldier
0.2 km
Discover the rich military heritage of Wales beneath Cardiff Castle in this immersive museum dedicated to the Welsh soldier.
Cardiff Castle, Cardiff Castle
0.2 km
Discover Cardiff Castle, a majestic blend of Roman roots, Norman strength, and Victorian splendor in the heart of Wales’ vibrant capital.
Rummer Tavern
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and rich local culture at Rummer Tavern, a must-visit pub in the heart of Cardiff.
St John The Baptist City Parish Church
0.2 km
Cardiff’s oldest medieval church, blending historic grandeur with vibrant community spirit in the city centre.
Aneurin Bevan Statue by Robert Thomas (1987)
0.2 km
A powerful bronze tribute in Cardiff to Aneurin Bevan, visionary founder of the NHS, sculpted by Robert Thomas in 1987.
Animal Wall
0.2 km
A whimsical Victorian stone menagerie along Cardiff’s Bute Park, featuring 15 expressive animals carved into a historic wall near Cardiff Castle.
Museum of Cardiff
0.2 km
Explore Welsh art, natural history, and archaeology in Cardiff’s grand historic museum with free admission and rich cultural treasures.
Principality Stadium
0.2 km
Wales’ national stadium with a retractable roof, iconic rugby heritage, and world-class events in the heart of Cardiff.
Cardiff Castle Museum
0.2 km
Wales' capital castle where 2,000 years of Roman, Norman, and Victorian history converge in the heart of Cardiff.
Cardiff Castle
0.2 km
Discover nearly 2,000 years of history and stunning architecture at Cardiff Castle, the heart of Wales’ vibrant capital city.
Essential places to dine
Casanova
0.0 km
A long-standing Cardiff trattoria serving authentic regional Italian food with warm service and an excellent all-Italian wine list.
Asador 44 Spanish Grill & Wine House
0.0 km
Authentic Spanish charcoal grilling and fine wines in the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant city centre.
Bar 44 Cardiff
0.0 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and award-winning wines in Cardiff's vibrant Castle Quarter.
Maison de Bœuf
0.1 km
An intimate French steakhouse in Cardiff’s Castle Arcade, blending Parisian charm with live jazz and signature cuisine.
The Alchemist Cardiff
0.1 km
Experience the magic of mixology at The Alchemist Cardiff, where innovative cocktails meet exquisite dining in a vibrant atmosphere.
Turtle Bay Cardiff
0.1 km
Caribbean soul meets Welsh hospitality—bold jerk, tropical cocktails, and island warmth in Cardiff city centre.
The Potted Pig
0.1 km
A stylish underground eatery in Cardiff serving seasonal Welsh-inspired modern British cuisine in a unique former bank vault setting.
Pasture Restaurant Cardiff
0.1 km
Savor expertly crafted steaks and vibrant atmosphere at Pasture, Cardiff’s celebrated destination for premium meat dining.
The Welsh House Cardiff
0.1 km
Experience authentic Welsh flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant city centre.
Cafe Citta
0.1 km
Cozy Italian eatery in Cardiff city center serving authentic wood-fired pizzas and pasta in an intimate, stylish setting.
The Botanist Cardiff
0.1 km
A vibrant gastropub in Cardiff city centre where botanical décor, creative cocktails, and live music bloom together.
Dirty gnocchi (Cardiff Market)
0.2 km
Savor authentic Italian gnocchi and pasta delights in the vibrant heart of Cardiff Market, where tradition meets street food charm.
The Sorting Room Restaurant
0.2 km
Elegant modern European dining in Cardiff’s city centre, celebrated for Welsh beef specialties and refined brasserie ambiance.
Lezzet Turkish Kitchen
0.2 km
Experience authentic Turkish cuisine with vibrant flavours and warm hospitality in the heart of Cardiff city centre.
Tŷ Madeira Restaurant
0.3 km
Award-winning Portuguese dining in Cardiff's city centre, blending authentic tradition with modern culinary excellence.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Great Welsh Gifts
0.1 km
Unearth authentic Welsh crafts, treats, and treasures on Cardiff's High Street—a delightful dive into Cymru's cultural heart at Great Welsh Gifts.
Castle Welsh Crafts Ltd
0.1 km
Discover authentic Welsh craftsmanship and personalized lovespoons opposite Cardiff Castle at Castle Welsh Crafts.
Mojo King
0.1 km
Discover smart, affordable Mod and Northern Soul-inspired men's fashion at Mojo King, a unique gem in Cardiff Indoor Market.
Knight Vintage
0.1 km
Discover unique vintage fashion treasures and exclusive KV collections in the heart of Cardiff Market’s vibrant historic setting.
Hobos Vintage
0.2 km
A vibrant Cardiff vintage shop packed with retro fashion, trainers, and accessories from the 1950s to today – perfect for throwback style and bargain finds.
Little Welsh Company
0.2 km
Discover Cardiff's premier independent shop for authentic Welsh gifts, blending tradition with modern charm since 2003 on lively St John Street.
The Works
0.2 km
Affordable books, crafts, toys, and stationery in the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant Queen Street shopping district.
Morgan Quarter
0.3 km
Discover Cardiff’s charming Morgan Quarter, a historic Victorian arcade blending unique shops, cozy cafes, and timeless architecture in the city centre.
Rokit Cardiff
0.3 km
Discover unique vintage fashion and sustainable style at Rokit Cardiff, where retro charm meets eco-conscious shopping in the heart of the city.
Cardiff Creative Shop
0.3 km
Handcrafted Welsh wonders from 45+ local artisans await in Queens Arcade's creative gem—unique gifts that sparkle with personality and heritage.
Driftwood Designs Cardiff
0.3 km
Bright, bold Welsh art and homewares in the heart of Cardiff’s Royal Arcade – perfect for souvenirs, gifts, and a splash of contemporary Welsh culture.
elephants and flowres
0.3 km
Artisan gifts and local crafts in Cardiff's charming Victorian arcade.
Welcome Things
0.3 km
Discover whimsical treasures in Cardiff's historic Royal Arcade at this eclectic gift shop, where unique Welsh-inspired finds meet global curiosities in Victorian splendor.
Ganesha Handicrafts
0.3 km
Ethical elegance from India and Nepal: jewelry, textiles, and handicrafts in Cardiff's iconic Royal Arcade.
Joie de Vivre Boutique and Vintage Store
0.3 km
Independent boutique treasure trove in historic Royal Arcade, celebrating curated vintage and artisanal finds.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Tiny Rebel Cardiff
0.0 km
Discover Cardiff’s vibrant craft beer scene and lively pub culture at Tiny Rebel, a hub for award-winning brews and eclectic events.
Penny
0.1 km
Discover Cardiff’s intimate cocktail haven with innovative drinks, expert bartenders, and a stylish, welcoming atmosphere at Penny.
Rum & Fizz
0.1 km
Discover Cardiff’s rum haven with over 200 rums, crafted cocktails, cozy elegance, and live jazz every Friday in Castle Arcade.
The Bootlegger
0.1 km
A vintage-flavoured Cardiff speakeasy serving expertly crafted cocktails and late-night live music on cobbled Womanby Street.
The Libertine Cocktail Bar
0.1 km
A stylish Cardiff cocktail bar blending gothic charm with expertly crafted drinks and a lively city center vibe.
Flight Club Cardiff
0.1 km
Experience the thrill of Social Darts® and vibrant city nightlife at Flight Club Cardiff’s unique multi-level bar and rooftop terrace.
Revolution Cardiff
0.1 km
A multi‑level cocktail bar and late‑night club opposite Cardiff Castle, built for groups, events and colourful cocktail theatre.
Main Stage
0.2 km
Cardiff's vibrant gay bar and cabaret club with lively drag shows, DJs, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of the city centre.
Glassworks
0.2 km
Lively Cardiff pub pouring Greene King ales, serving pub classics, and screening sports in the heart of the city center—perfect for meals, pints, and pre-event vibes.
Mary's Cardiff
0.3 km
Experience Cardiff’s vibrant nightlife at Mary’s, a lively bar and nightclub blending modern lounge vibes with energetic party spirit.
Slug & Lettuce - St Mary St Cardiff
0.3 km
Vibrant Cardiff cocktail bar on St Mary Street, famed for bottomless brunches, creative mixes, and lively nights in the city heart.
The Live Lounge Cardiff
0.3 km
Cardiff’s lively hotspot for live music, affordable eats, and vibrant nightlife until 4am every day.
Boom Battle Bar Cardiff
0.3 km
Cardiff’s ultimate bar for games, street food, cocktails, and late-night fun in a lively, interactive setting.
Brewhouse
0.3 km
Experience Cardiff’s vibrant live music scene with great food, drinks, and a lively atmosphere at Brewhouse in the Old Brewery Quarter.
Kapu
0.4 km
Experience Cardiff’s vibrant tiki cocktail bar and nightclub with expertly crafted drinks and a lively tropical atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Clwb Ifor Bach
0.1 km
Cardiff's gritty Welsh club heart: live music legends, late-night dances, and cultural rebellion on historic Womanby Street since 1983.
Fuel Rock Club
0.1 km
Cardiff's unyielding rock fortress on Womanby Street: live metal mayhem, cheap drinks, and a beer garden for the faithful.
For Your Eyes Only
0.1 km
Elegant and vibrant dance club in Cardiff’s city centre offering stylish interiors, live entertainment, and a lively nightlife atmosphere.
Popworld - Cardiff
0.2 km
Dive into cheesy pop heaven at Popworld Cardiff—karaoke, half-price drinks, and dance floor anthems until 3am on vibrant St Mary Street.
Metros
0.2 km
Cardiff's alternative nightclub haven: cheap drinks, eclectic DJs, and non-stop rock, ska, and indie beats fueling wild weekends till 4am.
The CUBE
0.4 km
Cardiff’s vibrant nightclub hotspot offering dynamic music, dancing, and an electric atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Tiger Tiger Cardiff
0.4 km
A dynamic nightclub with themed rooms and diverse bars offering a vibrant nightlife experience in the heart of Cardiff.
CIRCUIT Cardiff
0.5 km
Cardiff's largest nightclub ignites Greyfriars Road with 1,500-capacity energy, state-of-the-art production across themed rooms, and epic nights from club beats to private spectacles.
Pulse
0.6 km
A city-centre LGBTQ+-friendly bar that becomes a neon-lit nightclub after dark, blending casual daytime dining with late-night DJs and themed club nights.
The Vaults
1.9 km
Dive into Cardiff’s iconic underground club housed in a historic former bank, where techno beats and vibrant nightlife come alive beneath the city streets.
The Globe
1.9 km
A compact Grade II-listed former cinema turned lively live-music venue and nightclub, famed for intimate gigs and energetic club nights on Albany Road.
Cabaret at Wales Millennium Centre
2.1 km
Dive into Cardiff Bay's sizzling hub of drag, burlesque, comedy, and live music at Cabaret – where inclusive performances sparkle with pop culture magic and high-energy fun.
Coco Cubanas
11.4 km
Experience the vibrant weekend nightlife and energetic dance scene at Coco Cubanas, Barry’s premier late-night club on Broad Street.
Bar Cocoa
11.4 km
Experience Barry’s vibrant weekend nightlife at Bar Cocoa, a lively nightclub where music and dancing keep the party going until the early morning.
Eclipse Nightclub
15.7 km
Experience Pontypridd’s vibrant midweek nightlife at Eclipse Nightclub, where music, dancing, and community come alive every Wednesday night.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Cozy
- Intimate
- Relaxing
- Lively
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
