Dirty Gnocchi at Cardiff Market: A Taste of Authentic Italian Street Food
Savor authentic Italian gnocchi and pasta delights in the vibrant heart of Cardiff Market, where tradition meets street food charm.
Dirty Gnocchi, located in Cardiff Market on St Mary Street, is a celebrated eatery known for its fresh, authentic Italian gnocchi and pasta dishes. With a cozy atmosphere and friendly service, it offers a delightful culinary experience featuring specialties like gnocchi with pesto, ragu, and cheese wheel pasta. Open from Monday to Saturday during lunchtime hours, it’s a popular spot for locals and visitors seeking quality Italian street food in the heart of Cardiff.
A brief summary to Dirty gnocchi (Cardiff Market)
- 5-7 St Mary St, Cardiff, CF10 1AT, GB
- +447729253202
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-2 pm
- Tuesday 11 am-3:30 pm
- Wednesday 11 am-3:30 pm
- Thursday 11 am-3:30 pm
- Friday 11 am-3:30 pm
- Saturday 11 am-3:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit during lunchtime for daily specials offering great value and fresh seasonal dishes.
- Try signature dishes like the gnocchi with pesto or beef ragu and the cheese wheel pasta for an authentic taste.
- Arrive early or be prepared for a wait during peak hours, as the restaurant is popular and seating is limited.
- Check Dirty Gnocchi’s Instagram for updates on seasonal menus and special events.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Dirty gnocchi (Cardiff Market) 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 Dirty gnocchi (Cardiff Market)
A Culinary Gem in the Heart of Cardiff Market
Dirty Gnocchi is a standout restaurant nestled within the bustling Cardiff Market, renowned for bringing authentic Italian street food to the city center. Its specialty is fresh gnocchi, which is prepared daily and served with a variety of rich sauces such as pesto, ragu, and a unique cheese wheel pasta that adds a creamy, indulgent finish. The eatery’s location at 5-7 St Mary Street places it amidst the lively market atmosphere, making it a perfect stop for food lovers exploring the area.Signature Dishes and Flavor Profiles
The menu at Dirty Gnocchi focuses on quality and authenticity, with dishes that emphasize fresh ingredients and traditional Italian flavors. Highlights include the beef ragu, praised for its tender texture and depth of flavor, and the cheese wheel pasta, where the pasta is swirled inside a hollowed-out cheese wheel to impart a rich, cheesy coating. The gnocchi dishes are known for their delicate balance of crispy exteriors and soft, pillowy interiors. While some dishes feature smoky bacon and subtle spices, the overall flavor profile leans toward comforting and hearty Italian classics.Ambiance and Dining Experience
Though compact, Dirty Gnocchi offers a cozy and welcoming ambiance that complements its street food style. The staff are known for their friendly and attentive service, contributing to a relaxed dining experience. The eatery’s setting within Cardiff Market adds an element of vibrancy and local character, with the sounds and sights of the market enhancing the sensory experience of enjoying freshly made Italian food.Operational Hours and Visitor Tips
Dirty Gnocchi operates primarily during lunchtime hours, opening Monday from 10 am to 2 pm and Tuesday through Saturday from 11 am to 3:30 pm. Due to its popularity, especially during peak lunch hours, early arrival is recommended to avoid waiting. Visitors are encouraged to check Dirty Gnocchi’s social media for seasonal menu updates and special events, ensuring they experience the latest offerings. The restaurant’s reasonable prices and generous portions make it an excellent choice for a satisfying midday meal.Local Significance and Culinary Impact
As part of Cardiff Market’s evolving food scene, Dirty Gnocchi contributes a fresh, authentic Italian option that complements the diverse culinary offerings nearby. It has garnered a loyal following for its quality and value, helping to elevate the market’s reputation as a destination for food enthusiasts. The restaurant’s commitment to traditional recipes and fresh preparation reflects a broader trend toward artisanal and street food dining experiences in urban markets.Accessibility and Surrounding Attractions
Situated in the city center, Dirty Gnocchi is easily accessible by public transport and within walking distance of Cardiff’s key attractions. The market location places it near other notable eateries and shops, allowing visitors to combine their meal with exploration of Cardiff’s vibrant cultural and commercial hubs. The compact size and market setting mean that while seating is limited, the casual environment encourages a lively, social dining atmosphere.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Historical Wales
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Explore Historical Wales, a charming gift shop in Cardiff, offering unique souvenirs that embody the rich culture and heritage of Wales.
Fogo's Free Tours
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Explore the vibrant history and culture of Cardiff with Fogo's Free Tours – an engaging experience for every traveler.
John Batchelor Statue
0.2 km
A Victorian radical immortalised in bronze, standing where Cardiff’s political battles once raged.
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.
Nereid Statue
0.4 km
A bronze sea nymph offering mythological protection to Cardiff's maritime legacy
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.
Capitol Cardiff
0.5 km
Discover the heart of Cardiff at Capitol Cardiff, a shopping center offering diverse retail options, dining experiences, and a taste of local culture.
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.
The Gathering - Cardiff
0.5 km
Victorian Neogothic landmark and active faith community in the heart of Cardiff
Mountain of Fire & Miracles Ministries Cardiff.
0.5 km
A dynamic Christian church in the Capitol Shopping Centre, offering daily worship, prayer, and community in the heart of Cardiff.
City Hall
0.6 km
Majestic Edwardian Baroque landmark and civic heart of Cardiff, crowned by a striking clock tower with a Welsh dragon.
Water Towers by Amber Hiscott & David Pearl
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Iconic blue sculptural towers in Cardiff symbolizing water through innovative glass and metal artistry.
Bute Park
0.7 km
Discover the beauty and tranquility of Bute Park, Cardiff's premier urban park and a hub of culture and nature in the heart of the city.
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.
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.
Unmissable attractions to see
Cardiff Market
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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.
St John The Baptist City Parish Church
0.0 km
Cardiff’s oldest medieval church, blending historic grandeur with vibrant community spirit in the city centre.
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.
Museum of Cardiff
0.1 km
Explore Welsh art, natural history, and archaeology in Cardiff’s grand historic museum with free admission and rich cultural treasures.
Rummer Tavern
0.1 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and rich local culture at Rummer Tavern, a must-visit pub in the heart of Cardiff.
St David's Hall
0.1 km
Experience world-class acoustics and bold brutalist design at Cardiff’s iconic St David’s Hall, a vibrant cultural landmark in the city centre.
Aneurin Bevan Statue by Robert Thomas (1987)
0.1 km
A powerful bronze tribute in Cardiff to Aneurin Bevan, visionary founder of the NHS, sculpted by Robert Thomas in 1987.
Blue Bell
0.2 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.
Castle Quarter Arcades
0.2 km
Explore Cardiff’s historic Castle Quarter Arcades—Victorian charm, independent shops, and vibrant dining in the city’s heart.
Morgan Arcade
0.2 km
Step into Morgan Arcade, Cardiff’s enchanting Victorian shopping arcade where historic charm meets modern boutiques and cozy cafes.
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.
Cardiff Antique Centre
0.2 km
Discover timeless treasures and vintage charm in Cardiff’s historic Royal Arcade at the Cardiff Antique Centre.
Royal Arcade
0.2 km
Step into Cardiff’s oldest shopping arcade, where Victorian charm meets unique independent shops in a beautifully preserved historic setting.
Essential places to dine
Dirty gnocchi (Cardiff Market)
0.0 km
Savor authentic Italian gnocchi and pasta delights in the vibrant heart of Cardiff Market, where tradition meets street food charm.
The Botanist Cardiff
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A vibrant gastropub in Cardiff city centre where botanical décor, creative cocktails, and live music bloom together.
Cafe Citta
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Cozy Italian eatery in Cardiff city center serving authentic wood-fired pizzas and pasta in an intimate, stylish setting.
The Alchemist Cardiff
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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.
Pasture Restaurant Cardiff
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Savor expertly crafted steaks and vibrant atmosphere at Pasture, Cardiff’s celebrated destination for premium meat dining.
Lezzet Turkish Kitchen
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Experience authentic Turkish cuisine with vibrant flavours and warm hospitality in the heart of Cardiff city centre.
The Welsh House Cardiff
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Experience authentic Welsh flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant city centre.
The Potted Pig
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A stylish underground eatery in Cardiff serving seasonal Welsh-inspired modern British cuisine in a unique former bank vault setting.
Asador 44 Spanish Grill & Wine House
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Authentic Spanish charcoal grilling and fine wines in the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant city centre.
Casanova
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A long-standing Cardiff trattoria serving authentic regional Italian food with warm service and an excellent all-Italian wine list.
Maison de Bœuf
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An intimate French steakhouse in Cardiff’s Castle Arcade, blending Parisian charm with live jazz and signature cuisine.
The Sorting Room Restaurant
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Elegant modern European dining in Cardiff’s city centre, celebrated for Welsh beef specialties and refined brasserie ambiance.
Tŷ Madeira Restaurant
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Award-winning Portuguese dining in Cardiff's city centre, blending authentic tradition with modern culinary excellence.
Bar 44 Cardiff
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Authentic Spanish tapas and award-winning wines in Cardiff's vibrant Castle Quarter.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Knight Vintage
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Discover unique vintage fashion treasures and exclusive KV collections in the heart of Cardiff Market’s vibrant historic setting.
Mojo King
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Discover smart, affordable Mod and Northern Soul-inspired men's fashion at Mojo King, a unique gem in Cardiff Indoor Market.
Hobos Vintage
0.1 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
0.1 km
Discover Cardiff's premier independent shop for authentic Welsh gifts, blending tradition with modern charm since 2003 on lively St John Street.
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.
The Works
0.1 km
Affordable books, crafts, toys, and stationery in the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant Queen Street shopping district.
Cardiff Creative Shop
0.2 km
Handcrafted Welsh wonders from 45+ local artisans await in Queens Arcade's creative gem—unique gifts that sparkle with personality and heritage.
Castle Welsh Crafts Ltd
0.2 km
Discover authentic Welsh craftsmanship and personalized lovespoons opposite Cardiff Castle at Castle Welsh Crafts.
Morgan Quarter
0.2 km
Discover Cardiff’s charming Morgan Quarter, a historic Victorian arcade blending unique shops, cozy cafes, and timeless architecture in the city centre.
Urban Outfitters
0.2 km
Curated lifestyle retail celebrating creativity, fashion, and cultural expression in Cardiff's city centre.
Rokit Cardiff
0.2 km
Discover unique vintage fashion and sustainable style at Rokit Cardiff, where retro charm meets eco-conscious shopping in the heart of the city.
Flying Tiger
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Discover quirky Scandinavian gifts and creative everyday essentials at Flying Tiger in Cardiff’s St David's Centre.
Beyond Retro Cardiff
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Discover unique vintage fashion and sustainable style at Beyond Retro Cardiff, nestled in the vibrant St David's Centre.
Sobeys Vintage Clothing
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Discover unique reworked vintage fashion in Cardiff’s historic Royal Arcade at Sobeys Vintage Clothing, where creativity meets sustainability.
Welcome Things
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Flight Club Cardiff
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Experience the thrill of Social Darts® and vibrant city nightlife at Flight Club Cardiff’s unique multi-level bar and rooftop terrace.
Glassworks
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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.
Penny
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Discover Cardiff’s intimate cocktail haven with innovative drinks, expert bartenders, and a stylish, welcoming atmosphere at Penny.
Rum & Fizz
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Discover Cardiff’s rum haven with over 200 rums, crafted cocktails, cozy elegance, and live jazz every Friday in Castle Arcade.
Main Stage
0.1 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.
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.
Tiny Rebel Cardiff
0.2 km
Discover Cardiff’s vibrant craft beer scene and lively pub culture at Tiny Rebel, a hub for award-winning brews and eclectic events.
Revolution Cardiff
0.2 km
A multi‑level cocktail bar and late‑night club opposite Cardiff Castle, built for groups, events and colourful cocktail theatre.
The Bootlegger
0.2 km
A vintage-flavoured Cardiff speakeasy serving expertly crafted cocktails and late-night live music on cobbled Womanby Street.
The Live Lounge Cardiff
0.2 km
Cardiff’s lively hotspot for live music, affordable eats, and vibrant nightlife until 4am every day.
Mary's Cardiff
0.2 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
0.2 km
Vibrant Cardiff cocktail bar on St Mary Street, famed for bottomless brunches, creative mixes, and lively nights in the city heart.
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.
Slug & Lettuce - The Friary Cardiff
0.3 km
A lively, multi-level cocktail bar and casual-restaurant on The Friary — made for groups, brunch and evening drinks in central Cardiff.
Lab 22
0.3 km
Discover Cardiff’s award-winning Lab 22, where science meets cocktail artistry in a stylish, innovative, and immersive bar experience.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
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.
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.
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.
Clwb Ifor Bach
0.2 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
0.2 km
Cardiff's unyielding rock fortress on Womanby Street: live metal mayhem, cheap drinks, and a beer garden for the faithful.
The CUBE
0.3 km
Cardiff’s vibrant nightclub hotspot offering dynamic music, dancing, and an electric atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Tiger Tiger Cardiff
0.3 km
A dynamic nightclub with themed rooms and diverse bars offering a vibrant nightlife experience in the heart of Cardiff.
CIRCUIT Cardiff
0.4 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
0.4 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 Globe
1.8 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.
The Vaults
1.8 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.
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
11.5 km
Experience the vibrant weekend nightlife and energetic dance scene at Coco Cubanas, Barry’s premier late-night club on Broad Street.
Bar Cocoa
11.5 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
15.8 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
- Casual
- Lively
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
