Thomas by Tom Simmons: Elegant Welsh Cuisine in Pontcanna
Refined Welsh cuisine meets elegant design in Cardiff’s stylish Pontcanna district at Thomas by Tom Simmons.
Thomas by Tom Simmons is an acclaimed restaurant located at 3 & 5 Pontcanna Street in Cardiff’s stylish Pontcanna district. Celebrated for its refined yet relaxed atmosphere, it offers modern British cuisine with strong Welsh influences, crafted by chef Tom Simmons. The interior exudes sophistication with dark green wood paneling, parquet floors, and art deco touches. Diners enjoy seasonal menus featuring expertly prepared dishes like tea-brined fried chicken, Cornish brill, and lamb, alongside a well-curated wine list and attentive service.
A brief summary to Thomas by Tom Simmons
- 3 & 5 Pontcanna St, Cardiff, Pontcanna, CF11 9HQ, GB
- +442921167800
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Tuesday 5 pm-11 pm
- Wednesday 12 pm-11 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-11 pm
- Friday 12 pm-1 am
- Saturday 12 pm-1 am
Local tips
- Reserve in advance as tables are highly sought after, especially on weekends and evenings.
- Try the tea-brined fried chicken and Tom’s chips for standout flavors.
- Explore the bar area for art deco ambiance and a curated selection of wines and cocktails.
- Consider booking the private dining space upstairs for special events or group dinners.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Thomas by Tom Simmons location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Thomas by Tom Simmons
A Culinary Tribute to Welsh Ingredients
Thomas by Tom Simmons is a restaurant deeply rooted in Welsh culinary traditions, elevated by French technique and modern British influences. Chef Tom Simmons, inspired by his Pembrokeshire upbringing, showcases local produce with precision and elegance. The menu changes monthly to highlight the freshest seasonal ingredients, offering dishes such as citrus-cured salmon, mushroom croquettes dusted with Parmesan and truffle, and day boat fish like Cornish brill served with smoked butter sauce and caviar. The kitchen’s attention to detail ensures every plate balances flavor and presentation flawlessly.Atmosphere and Interior Design
Situated in the affluent Pontcanna suburb of Cardiff, Thomas boasts a dining space that is both sophisticated and inviting. The interior features dark green wood-paneled walls, cream accents, natural wood tones, and a herringbone parquet floor. Brass fittings and art deco elements in the bar area add a touch of 1930s Parisian charm. The ambiance strikes a balance between refined and relaxed, making it suitable for both intimate dinners and special occasions. The upper floor offers private dining spaces for events.Signature Dishes and Culinary Highlights
Signature offerings include the tea-brined fried chicken with a crispy, flavorful crumb and zingy lime mayo, widely praised for its juicy texture and balanced heat. The lamb cannon and slow-cooked shoulder come with black garlic purée and herb crusts, demonstrating the kitchen’s mastery of classic flavors with modern twists. Sides such as Tom’s chips—thinly sliced confit potatoes fried to golden perfection—and mac and cheese topped with mushrooms complement the mains. Desserts like peanut butter parfait with banana ice cream and yuzu gel provide a satisfying finish.Service and Dining Experience
The service at Thomas is polished, friendly, and attentive without being intrusive. The staff and sommeliers are knowledgeable and respectful, enhancing the overall dining experience. While the restaurant is considered a fine dining venue, it maintains a warm and casual atmosphere. Background noise levels can be lively but generally contribute to the vibrant setting. The wine list and cocktail offerings are carefully selected to pair well with the menu.Local Context and Community
Located in Pontcanna, a charming and leafy district known for its independent shops and elegant homes, Thomas fits seamlessly into the neighborhood’s character. The restaurant’s commitment to local sourcing supports Welsh producers, and its affiliation with Ground Bakery nearby ensures top-quality bread accompanies every meal. Pontcanna’s tranquil streets and cultural vibe make visiting Thomas part of a broader exploration of Cardiff’s creative and culinary scene.Overall Significance and Appeal
Thomas by Tom Simmons stands out as one of South Wales’ premier dining destinations, combining craftsmanship, seasonal Welsh ingredients, and a stylish setting. It caters to diners seeking sophisticated yet approachable British cuisine with a focus on quality and detail. The restaurant’s blend of elegance, comfort food classics, and innovative touches secures its reputation as a must-visit in Cardiff’s vibrant food landscape.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
South African War Memorial
1.5 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
1.5 km
Majestic Edwardian Baroque landmark and civic heart of Cardiff, crowned by a striking clock tower with a Welsh dragon.
Historical Wales
1.5 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
1.5 km
Step back into medieval Cardiff with the ancient Town Wall, a striking relic offering history, architecture, and panoramic city views.
Nereid Statue
1.5 km
A bronze sea nymph offering mythological protection to Cardiff's maritime legacy
Cardiff Central Train Station Water Tower
1.7 km
A historic Grade II listed water tower overlooking Cardiff Central Station and the River Taff, symbolizing the city’s rich railway heritage.
Fogo's Free Tours
1.8 km
Explore the vibrant history and culture of Cardiff with Fogo's Free Tours – an engaging experience for every traveler.
John Batchelor Statue
1.8 km
A Victorian radical immortalised in bronze, standing where Cardiff’s political battles once raged.
Exitus Escape Rooms
1.9 km
Experience thrilling adventures and team-building fun at Exitus Escape Rooms in Cardiff, where every puzzle brings you closer to victory.
The Gathering - Cardiff
1.9 km
Victorian Neogothic landmark and active faith community in the heart of Cardiff
St David's Metropolitan Cathedral
1.9 km
Experience the architectural beauty and serene atmosphere of St David's Metropolitan Cathedral, a must-visit spiritual landmark in Cardiff.
Canal Quarter
1.9 km
Explore the scenic beauty and cultural richness of Canal Quarter, Cardiff's hidden gem for tourists seeking relaxation and adventure.
Capitol Cardiff
2.0 km
Discover the heart of Cardiff at Capitol Cardiff, a shopping center offering diverse retail options, dining experiences, and a taste of local culture.
RCCG Kingdom Of God Parish, Cardiff
2.0 km
Experience the warmth of community and spirituality at RCCG Kingdom Of God Parish, a welcoming Church of Christ in the heart of Cardiff.
Mountain of Fire & Miracles Ministries Cardiff.
2.1 km
A dynamic Christian church in the Capitol Shopping Centre, offering daily worship, prayer, and community in the heart of Cardiff.
Unmissable attractions to see
Sophia Gardens
0.7 km
A scenic riverside park and premier cricket stadium in Cardiff, blending natural beauty with vibrant sports and cultural events.
Bute Park Visitor Centre
0.8 km
A sustainable, community-focused hub in the heart of Cardiff’s historic Bute Park, perfect for learning, relaxing, and exploring the city’s green heart.
Bute Park
1.0 km
Cardiff's verdant 130-acre sanctuary where Victorian heritage meets modern celebration, beneath ancient trees and winter lights.
Queen Anne Square
1.1 km
A tranquil Edwardian square nestled in Cardiff’s Civic Centre, blending historic architecture with serene green space.
Coopers Field
1.1 km
A serene and spacious green oasis in Cardiff’s Bute Park, perfect for outdoor events, relaxation, and city escapes.
River Cruises
1.1 km
Explore Cardiff Bay’s stunning waterfront on a relaxing, eco-friendly Aquabus river cruise with accessible, modern catamarans.
Cambrian Way Plaque Cardiff
1.2 km
Discover the gateway to Wales’ epic mountain trail at the Cambrian Way Plaque in Cardiff’s historic Bute Park.
Charter for Trees Woods and People
1.2 km
A symbolic pole in Cardiff’s Bute Park celebrating the enduring bond between people, trees, and nature’s future.
Animal Wall
1.3 km
A whimsical Victorian stone menagerie along Cardiff’s Bute Park, featuring 15 expressive animals carved into a historic wall near Cardiff Castle.
Cardiff Arms Park
1.3 km
Historic rugby stadium in Cardiff, home to Cardiff Rugby and a cornerstone of Welsh sporting heritage since the 1870s.
Victoria Park
1.3 km
Historic Victorian park in Cardiff blending heritage charm with vibrant family-friendly recreation and green spaces.
Cardiff Castle Museum
1.3 km
Wales' capital castle where 2,000 years of Roman, Norman, and Victorian history converge in the heart of Cardiff.
Wales National War Memorial
1.4 km
A solemn and beautifully designed memorial in Cardiff’s Cathays Park honoring Welsh war heroes of the World Wars.
Alexandra Gardens
1.4 km
A serene Edwardian garden in Cardiff’s Civic Centre, rich with memorials and vibrant floral displays, offering a tranquil urban retreat.
Cardiff Castle
1.4 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
Thomas by Tom Simmons
0.0 km
Refined Welsh cuisine meets elegant design in Cardiff’s stylish Pontcanna district at Thomas by Tom Simmons.
Heaneys Restaurant
0.2 km
Discover Cardiff’s celebrated fine dining gem, Heaneys Restaurant, where innovative British tasting menus meet stylish comfort in Pontcanna.
Milkwood
0.2 km
Innovative Welsh brunch and vibrant evening pizzette bar in Cardiff’s lively Pontcanna neighborhood.
Elgano Italian Restaurant
0.5 km
Authentic Italian dining in a stylish, romantic setting on Cathedral Road – perfect for date nights, family meals, and special occasions in Cardiff.
Neighbourhood Kitchen & Cocktails
1.3 km
Intimate Riverside restaurant with rotating menus, exceptional seafood, and craft cocktails in Cardiff.
Nook
1.3 km
Cozy Cardiff eatery specializing in seasonal small plates and natural wines, perfect for intimate dining and wine lovers alike.
Calabrisella Cathays
1.5 km
Savor authentic Italian pizzas and pasta in a lively Cardiff setting with warm service and a vibrant atmosphere.
Maison de Bœuf
1.5 km
An intimate French steakhouse in Cardiff’s Castle Arcade, blending Parisian charm with live jazz and signature cuisine.
Bar 44 Cardiff
1.5 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and award-winning wines in Cardiff's vibrant Castle Quarter.
The Potted Pig
1.5 km
A stylish underground eatery in Cardiff serving seasonal Welsh-inspired modern British cuisine in a unique former bank vault setting.
The Welsh House Cardiff
1.5 km
Experience authentic Welsh flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant city centre.
Casanova
1.5 km
A long-standing Cardiff trattoria serving authentic regional Italian food with warm service and an excellent all-Italian wine list.
Pasture Restaurant Cardiff
1.5 km
Savor expertly crafted steaks and vibrant atmosphere at Pasture, Cardiff’s celebrated destination for premium meat dining.
Asador 44 Spanish Grill & Wine House
1.5 km
Authentic Spanish charcoal grilling and fine wines in the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant city centre.
Porro Llandaff
1.6 km
A stylish, modern Italian-inspired restaurant in Llandaff village, serving hearty breakfasts, pasta, grilled meats, and seasonal dishes in a relaxed, welcoming setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The SHO Gallery and Shop
0.5 km
A vibrant Cardiff hub offering art supplies, handmade gifts, and local creativity in a welcoming gallery and shop environment.
Castle Welsh Crafts Ltd
1.5 km
Discover authentic Welsh craftsmanship and personalized lovespoons opposite Cardiff Castle at Castle Welsh Crafts.
Great Welsh Gifts
1.5 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.
Hobos Vintage
1.6 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.
Rokit Cardiff
1.6 km
Discover unique vintage fashion and sustainable style at Rokit Cardiff, where retro charm meets eco-conscious shopping in the heart of the city.
The Works
1.6 km
Affordable books, crafts, toys, and stationery in the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant Queen Street shopping district.
Little Welsh Company
1.6 km
Discover Cardiff's premier independent shop for authentic Welsh gifts, blending tradition with modern charm since 2003 on lively St John Street.
Mojo King
1.6 km
Discover smart, affordable Mod and Northern Soul-inspired men's fashion at Mojo King, a unique gem in Cardiff Indoor Market.
Knight Vintage
1.6 km
Discover unique vintage fashion treasures and exclusive KV collections in the heart of Cardiff Market’s vibrant historic setting.
Cardiff Creative Shop
1.7 km
Handcrafted Welsh wonders from 45+ local artisans await in Queens Arcade's creative gem—unique gifts that sparkle with personality and heritage.
Morgan Quarter
1.8 km
Discover Cardiff’s charming Morgan Quarter, a historic Victorian arcade blending unique shops, cozy cafes, and timeless architecture in the city centre.
Flying Tiger
1.8 km
Discover quirky Scandinavian gifts and creative everyday essentials at Flying Tiger in Cardiff’s St David's Centre.
Cathays High Store
1.8 km
Discover the convenience of Cathays High Store in Cardiff, your local supermarket offering a wide range of groceries and local specialties.
Driftwood Designs Cardiff
1.8 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.
Royal Arcade, Cardiff
1.8 km
Experience Cardiff's Royal Arcade: A Victorian gem blending unique shopping, charming cafes, and rich history in the heart of the city.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Bar
0.9 km
A stylish cocktail bar and restaurant in Cardiff’s Canton, offering craft drinks, live music, and a welcoming vibe for all occasions.
The Woodville
1.4 km
Cathays' go-to pub for burgers, brews, sports screens, and unbeatable student specials in a lively, welcoming spot.
The Bootlegger
1.4 km
A vintage-flavoured Cardiff speakeasy serving expertly crafted cocktails and late-night live music on cobbled Womanby Street.
Revolution Cardiff
1.4 km
A multi‑level cocktail bar and late‑night club opposite Cardiff Castle, built for groups, events and colourful cocktail theatre.
The Libertine Cocktail Bar
1.5 km
A stylish Cardiff cocktail bar blending gothic charm with expertly crafted drinks and a lively city center vibe.
Tiny Rebel Cardiff
1.5 km
Discover Cardiff’s vibrant craft beer scene and lively pub culture at Tiny Rebel, a hub for award-winning brews and eclectic events.
Rum & Fizz
1.5 km
Discover Cardiff’s rum haven with over 200 rums, crafted cocktails, cozy elegance, and live jazz every Friday in Castle Arcade.
Penny
1.5 km
Discover Cardiff’s intimate cocktail haven with innovative drinks, expert bartenders, and a stylish, welcoming atmosphere at Penny.
Bar 105
1.5 km
Intimate Cardiff cocktail haven with killer drinks, DJ nights, and pop-up feasts in student-fueled Cathays.
The Flora
1.5 km
Cozy Cathays pub pouring pints, roasts, and community spirit in a quirky, welcoming haven—Cardiff's go-to for hearty Sundays and everyday cheer.
Slug & Lettuce - The Friary Cardiff
1.6 km
A lively, multi-level cocktail bar and casual-restaurant on The Friary — made for groups, brunch and evening drinks in central Cardiff.
Cathays Sports & Social Club
1.6 km
Cardiff's unpretentious social hub: cheap pints, games galore, live tunes, and community vibes in student-favorite Cathays.
Flight Club Cardiff
1.6 km
Experience the thrill of Social Darts® and vibrant city nightlife at Flight Club Cardiff’s unique multi-level bar and rooftop terrace.
The Live Lounge Cardiff
1.6 km
Cardiff’s lively hotspot for live music, affordable eats, and vibrant nightlife until 4am every day.
Yates - Cardiff
1.7 km
Lively sports bar and nightclub in Cardiff city centre with unbeatable sports coverage, great drinks, and a unique dancing doorman.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Boutique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Art Deco Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Art & Design
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Weekend Getaway
- Day Trip
- Photowalk
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
