Casanova, Cardiff Travel Guide

Tucked into a quiet corner of Quay Street, Casanova feels like a well-kept secret in Cardiff’s bustling city centre. For more than twenty years, this family-run trattoria has served authentic regional Italian cuisine with a quiet confidence that has earned it a loyal local following. Run by chef Antonio Cersosimo, originally from Calabria via Milan, and Neapolitan wine importer Luca Montuori, the restaurant channels the spirit of southern Italy while embracing the best of Welsh produce. The atmosphere is traditional and unpretentious, a deliberate contrast to fleeting food trends, making it a place where guests can truly relax and enjoy a meal that feels both generous and thoughtful.

The menu at Casanova is concise but deeply considered, changing regularly to reflect seasonal ingredients and regional Italian traditions. Antipasti might include spinach and ricotta gnudi, thick-cut bruschetta topped with stracciatella and blistered tomatoes, or cured meats and cheeses from Italy. Mains are anchored by rich pasta dishes such as pappardelle with venison and pork ragù, alongside fresh fish from the market and rosy-pink Welsh lamb rump served with Parmesan mash. The kitchen favours slow-cooked, deeply flavoured dishes that highlight quality ingredients rather than showy technique, resulting in food that is satisfying, balanced, and deeply Italian in character.

Casanova shines at lunch, where a good-value set menu offers two or three courses at a very reasonable price, making it a popular choice for city workers and visitors alike. In the evening, the dining room transforms into a more intimate space, softly lit and ideal for a relaxed dinner or special occasion. The wine list is a particular highlight: entirely Italian, extensive, and expertly curated, with staff who are happy to guide guests towards the perfect pairing. For those who want to explore, there is also a multi-course tasting menu that showcases the breadth of the kitchen’s skills and the depth of the wine selection.

The service at Casanova is consistently described as charming and attentive, with staff who are knowledgeable about both the food and the wine. The dining room is comfortable and convivial, with an upstairs area that can be used for private events. While the restaurant is compact, the tables are arranged to allow for conversation without feeling cramped. It is family-friendly and welcoming to couples and solo diners alike, and reservations are recommended, especially on weekends. The restaurant is closed on Sundays, with lunch and dinner services running from Monday to Saturday, making it a reliable choice for weekday business lunches or weekend dinners in the city.