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The Heathcock – Llandaff Gastropub & Beer Garden

A modern gastropub in Llandaff with a Michelin Bib Gourmand, serving seasonal British dishes and craft beer in a relaxed, stylish setting.

4.4

Tucked away in leafy Llandaff, The Heathcock is a modern gastropub with a Michelin Bib Gourmand, celebrated for its intelligent, seasonal British cooking and relaxed sophistication. Inside, bare wooden floors and white walls frame a menu of small plates, mains and tasting options, while a spacious beer garden offers a sun-dappled retreat. Expect bold flavours, warm service and a strong local beer list in a setting that feels both stylish and unpretentious.

A brief summary to The Heathcock

  • 58-60 Bridge St, Cardiff, CF5 2EN, GB
  • +442921152290
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Mixed
  • Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
  • Monday 5 pm-11 pm
  • Tuesday 5 pm-11 pm
  • Wednesday 4 pm-11:30 pm
  • Thursday 12 pm-11:30 pm
  • Friday 12 pm-12 am
  • Saturday 12 pm-12 am
  • Sunday 12 pm-11 pm

Local tips

  • Book ahead for dinner, especially on weekends, as the main restaurant fills quickly; the bar area often has space for walk-ins.
  • Try the tasting menu if you want the full experience, or explore the bar menu for small plates and snacks with a drink.
  • Visit in good weather to enjoy the spacious beer garden, a particularly pleasant spot for long lunches and early evenings.
  • Check the current opening hours before visiting, as the pub is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays and has limited lunch service on some days.
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The Heathcock location weather suitability

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  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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Discover more about The Heathcock

A Modern Gastropub with a Local Heart

Nestled in the quiet, green suburb of Llandaff, The Heathcock stands out as a contemporary take on the British pub. Far from a traditional, fussy establishment, it embraces a stripped-back, modern aesthetic: white walls, reclaimed wood, bare floors and a no-nonsense layout that puts the focus squarely on food and drink. Part of a small local group that includes the Hare & Hounds, it has earned a loyal following and a Michelin Bib Gourmand for good-quality, good-value cooking. The atmosphere is laid-back but attentive, the kind of place where you can linger over a long lunch or settle into a proper dinner without feeling rushed.

Seasonal, Thoughtful British Cooking

The kitchen’s strength lies in its intelligent, bistro-style approach to British ingredients. Game, offal, native fish and seasonal vegetables feature prominently, treated with care and a touch of modern flair. A typical menu might include a rich Welsh rarebit on thick sourdough, grilled asparagus with wild garlic purée and black truffle, or native mussels in a leek and cider sauce. Small plates encourage sharing and grazing, while the main restaurant offers a saver menu, a set menu and a multi-course tasting option for those wanting a more immersive experience. Desserts are a highlight, with soufflés and tarts that balance richness and precision.

From Bar to Beer Garden

The Heathcock works equally well as a bar, a restaurant and a garden retreat. The bar area serves an extensive menu of small plates, snacks and mains, perfect for a casual drink and bite. Upstairs, a Champagne and oyster bar adds a touch of indulgence. Outside, a generous beer garden provides a sunlit escape in warmer months, with tables under trees and a relaxed, convivial vibe. Inside, the space is open and airy, with large windows that connect the dining room to the garden, making it feel spacious even when busy.

Service and Vibe

Service is consistently described as warm, efficient and unobtrusive – the kind that knows when to check in and when to step back. Staff are knowledgeable about the menu and drinks, and the overall tone is friendly rather than formal. The pub attracts a mix of locals, food lovers and visitors, creating a lively but never overwhelming atmosphere. While the restaurant can get busy, especially at weekends, the layout and pacing generally keep things comfortable, and the bar area often remains accessible even when the main dining room is full.

Drinks and Practicalities

The drinks list leans heavily on well-chosen beers, including cask ales and craft options, alongside a solid selection of European wines by the glass and bottle. Prices are in line with a quality gastropub: reasonable for the quality, with a 15% service charge typically added. The pub is closed on Monday and Tuesday, opening from Wednesday through Sunday for lunch and dinner. It’s worth noting that while the food and service are highly regarded, some visitors have pointed out that the restrooms are dated and could benefit from refurbishment, a small contrast to the otherwise high standards elsewhere in the building.

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