Lab 22: Cardiff's Premier Experimental Cocktail Bar
Discover Cardiff’s award-winning Lab 22, where science meets cocktail artistry in a stylish, innovative, and immersive bar experience.
Lab 22, located on Caroline Street in Cardiff city centre, is a renowned cocktail bar celebrated for its innovative mixology and scientific approach to drinks. Established in 2012, it offers a unique and immersive experience with expertly crafted cocktails using local and foraged ingredients, blending contemporary style with a touch of elegance. Open late, it is a hotspot for cocktail enthusiasts seeking creative and thoughtful drinks in a lively yet intimate setting.
A brief summary to Lab 22
- 22 Caroline St, Cardiff, CF10 1FG, GB
- +442920399997
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Luxury
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 5 pm-2 am
- Tuesday 5 pm-2 am
- Wednesday 5 pm-2 am
- Thursday 5 pm-2 am
- Friday 5 pm-2 am
- Saturday 2 pm-3 am
- Sunday 5 pm-2 am
Local tips
- Try the tasting menu for a multi-course cocktail experience that explores Lab 22’s inventive mixology.
- Visit on a weekday evening for a more relaxed atmosphere and attentive service.
- Ask staff about the science behind your cocktail using the QR codes provided with each drink.
- Book in advance for larger groups, as the venue is intimate and popular.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Lab 22 location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Lab 22
A Hub of Cocktail Innovation and Science
Lab 22 has been a trailblazer in Cardiff’s cocktail scene since its inception in 2012. The bar is distinguished by its scientific approach to mixology, incorporating experimental techniques and theatrical elements such as fire and smoke into its cocktail preparation. This innovative spirit is reflected in their menus, which explore themes of invention, the environment, and future frontiers of cocktail creation. Each drink is crafted not only to delight the palate but also to provoke thought, often accompanied by QR codes explaining the science and inspiration behind the concoctions.Design and Atmosphere
The interior of Lab 22 strikes a balance between contemporary elegance and playful sophistication. The space is designed to feel intimate yet dynamic, with a stylish aesthetic that complements the bar’s cutting-edge cocktail philosophy. The ambiance is lively and engaging, making it an ideal venue for socializing while enjoying high-quality drinks. Friendly and knowledgeable staff contribute to a welcoming atmosphere that caters to both cocktail novices and connoisseurs alike.Locally Inspired and Sustainable Ingredients
Lab 22 places strong emphasis on local culture and sustainability. The bar incorporates locally foraged ingredients and urban farming products, such as rooftop honey, to create distinctive flavor profiles that connect guests to the region. This commitment to sustainability is woven into their menus, highlighting environmental themes and encouraging guests to consider the broader impact of their choices.Award-Winning Reputation
The bar’s dedication to quality and innovation has earned it prestigious accolades, including the Siete Misterios Best Cocktail Menu Award at the 2021 World’s 50 Best Bars. Lab 22 consistently ranks among the top cocktail bars in the UK and has been recognized for pushing the boundaries of mixology. Their tasting packages, offering multi-course cocktail experiences, provide an immersive journey through the bar’s creative ethos.Experience and Offerings
Visitors can enjoy a variety of options ranging from individual cocktails to curated tasting menus that showcase the bar’s inventive approach. The tasting experiences are ideal for groups and provide a comprehensive exploration of Lab 22’s unique cocktail philosophy. Whether seeking a casual drink or a special night out, the bar delivers an exceptional experience marked by creativity and craftsmanship.Location and Accessibility
Situated in the heart of Cardiff’s city centre on Caroline Street, Lab 22 is easily accessible and offers late-night hours, opening from mid-afternoon on weekends and early evening on weekdays until the early hours. This makes it a perfect destination for both after-work drinks and late-night socializing in a vibrant urban setting.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
John Batchelor Statue
0.1 km
A Victorian radical immortalised in bronze, standing where Cardiff’s political battles once raged.
Fogo's Free Tours
0.1 km
Explore the vibrant history and culture of Cardiff with Fogo's Free Tours – an engaging experience for every traveler.
Water Towers by Amber Hiscott & David Pearl
0.4 km
Iconic blue sculptural towers in Cardiff symbolizing water through innovative glass and metal artistry.
Statue of The Second Marquess of Bute
0.4 km
Historic bronze statue in Cardiff honoring the visionary who transformed the city through the development of its docks and industrial growth.
Historical Wales
0.4 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
0.5 km
Step back into medieval Cardiff with the ancient Town Wall, a striking relic offering history, architecture, and panoramic city views.
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.
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.
Mountain of Fire & Miracles Ministries Cardiff.
0.6 km
A dynamic Christian church in the Capitol Shopping Centre, offering daily worship, prayer, and community in the heart of Cardiff.
Nereid Statue
0.6 km
A bronze sea nymph offering mythological protection to Cardiff's maritime legacy
HMP Cardiff
0.6 km
Discover the rich history and architectural significance of HMP Cardiff, a landmark prison reflecting the evolution of the UK's justice system.
The Gathering - Cardiff
0.6 km
Victorian Neogothic landmark and active faith community in the heart of Cardiff
South African War Memorial
0.7 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
0.8 km
Majestic Edwardian Baroque landmark and civic heart of Cardiff, crowned by a striking clock tower with a Welsh dragon.
James Howell's House
0.9 km
Historic landmark in Cardiff celebrating James Howell’s retail legacy and Cardiff’s commercial heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Cardiff Central Library
0.1 km
A sustainable cultural hub in Cardiff’s heart, blending modern design with rich community resources and vibrant public spaces.
Royal Arcade
0.1 km
Step into Cardiff’s oldest shopping arcade, where Victorian charm meets unique independent shops in a beautifully preserved historic setting.
Alcotraz Cardiff: Cell Block Nine-One
0.1 km
Step into a 1920s prison experience at Alcotraz Cardiff, where cocktails are crafted behind bars in a captivating immersive environment.
Cardiff Antique Centre
0.1 km
Discover timeless treasures and vintage charm in Cardiff’s historic Royal Arcade at the Cardiff Antique Centre.
Royal Arcade, Cardiff
0.1 km
Step into Cardiff’s oldest Victorian shopping arcade, where historic charm meets unique independent shops and delightful eateries.
Morgan Arcade
0.1 km
Step into Morgan Arcade, Cardiff’s enchanting Victorian shopping arcade where historic charm meets modern boutiques and cozy cafes.
Walkabout - Cardiff
0.2 km
Cardiff’s vibrant sports bar and nightclub with massive screens, live entertainment, and a lively party atmosphere on St Mary Street.
St David's Hall
0.2 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.
Lightning Bolt
0.2 km
A towering modern art beacon energizing Cardiff’s vibrant St David’s Centre with bold design and urban flair.
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.
8 St Mary St
0.3 km
Historic Victorian commercial site in Cardiff’s Castle Quarter, blending rich heritage with vibrant city life.
St David’s Dewi Sant
0.3 km
Cardiff’s largest shopping centre with over 160 shops, dining, and entertainment all under one roof in the city centre.
Cardiff Market
0.3 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.
The Cardiff Market
0.3 km
Discover Cardiff Market’s vibrant Victorian charm, where fresh local produce and unique stalls create a lively city-centre shopping experience.
Jacobs Antique Centre
0.3 km
Explore Cardiff’s vibrant multi-floor antiques market with vintage finds, art galleries, and a rooftop café overlooking the waterfront.
Essential places to dine
Cornerhouse Cardiff
0.0 km
Elevated British gastropub cuisine in Cardiff's city centre, where gourmet sensibility meets welcoming warmth.
Bill's Cardiff Central Restaurant
0.0 km
All-day British dining in Cardiff's vibrant arcade—fresh, seasonal, and genuinely welcoming to families and their four-legged friends.
The Ivy Cardiff
0.0 km
Experience elegant British dining in a stunning 1920s-inspired botanical setting at The Ivy Cardiff, a vibrant city-centre brasserie and cocktail bar.
The Ivy Asia Cardiff
0.0 km
Experience exquisite Asian flavours and glamorous dining in the heart of Cardiff at The Ivy Asia, where culinary artistry meets stunning design.
Giovanni's Restaurant
0.1 km
Authentic Italian cuisine in Cardiff's heart, where tradition meets warm hospitality.
Côte Cardiff Central
0.1 km
Experience modern French cuisine with free-flow frites in a stylish brasserie setting at the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant Mill Lane.
Las Iguanas - Cardiff
0.1 km
Experience bold Latin American flavours and vibrant cocktails in the heart of Cardiff’s lively Mill Lane.
Gaucho Cardiff
0.1 km
Savor premium Argentine steaks and vibrant South American flavors in Cardiff’s sleek, modern steakhouse at St Davids Centre.
Pitch Bar & Eatery
0.1 km
Experience the best of Cardiff at Pitch Bar & Eatery – where delicious breakfasts meet exquisite cocktails in a lively setting.
Tŷ Madeira Restaurant
0.1 km
Award-winning Portuguese dining in Cardiff's city centre, blending authentic tradition with modern culinary excellence.
Cosy Club
0.1 km
Chic British dining and all-day drinks in Cardiff’s St David’s Dewi Sant, blending timeless glamour with a welcoming atmosphere.
Le Monde Restaurant Cardiff
0.1 km
Experience authentic Galician brasserie dining in Cardiff’s city centre, with fresh seafood, premium meats, and an award-winning wine cellar.
Ciliegino Restaurant
0.2 km
Authentic Sicilian pizza and pasta in Cardiff's premier shopping destination.
The Smoke Haus
0.2 km
Experience bold American barbecue flavors and hearty portions in the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant St Davids Centre.
Viva Brazil Cardiff
0.2 km
Experience authentic Brazilian rodizio and vibrant flavors in the heart of Cardiff’s city centre, perfect for groups and special occasions.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Sobeys Vintage Clothing
0.1 km
Discover unique reworked vintage fashion in Cardiff’s historic Royal Arcade at Sobeys Vintage Clothing, where creativity meets sustainability.
Joie de Vivre Boutique and Vintage Store
0.1 km
Independent boutique treasure trove in historic Royal Arcade, celebrating curated vintage and artisanal finds.
Welcome Things
0.1 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.
elephants and flowres
0.1 km
Artisan gifts and local crafts in Cardiff's charming Victorian arcade.
Beyond Retro Cardiff
0.1 km
Discover unique vintage fashion and sustainable style at Beyond Retro Cardiff, nestled in the vibrant St David's Centre.
Ganesha Handicrafts
0.1 km
Ethical elegance from India and Nepal: jewelry, textiles, and handicrafts in Cardiff's iconic Royal Arcade.
Driftwood Designs Cardiff
0.1 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.
Urban Outfitters
0.1 km
Curated lifestyle retail celebrating creativity, fashion, and cultural expression in Cardiff's city centre.
Menkind
0.1 km
Discover quirky gadgets and unique gifts for men at Menkind Cardiff, nestled in the vibrant St David's Shopping Centre.
Morgan Quarter
0.1 km
Discover Cardiff’s charming Morgan Quarter, a historic Victorian arcade blending unique shops, cozy cafes, and timeless architecture in the city centre.
Great Welsh Gifts
0.2 km
Discover authentic Welsh crafts, artisanal foods, and unique souvenirs in the heart of Cardiff at Great Welsh Gifts.
Knight Vintage
0.3 km
Discover unique vintage fashion treasures and exclusive KV collections in the heart of Cardiff Market’s vibrant historic setting.
Flying Tiger
0.3 km
Discover quirky Scandinavian gifts and creative everyday essentials at Flying Tiger in Cardiff’s St David's Centre.
Mojo King
0.3 km
Discover smart, affordable Mod and Northern Soul-inspired men's fashion at Mojo King, a unique gem in Cardiff Indoor Market.
Little Welsh Company
0.3 km
Discover Cardiff's premier independent shop for authentic Welsh gifts, blending tradition with modern charm since 2003 on lively St John Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Lab 22
0.0 km
Discover Cardiff’s award-winning Lab 22, where science meets cocktail artistry in a stylish, innovative, and immersive bar experience.
Boom Battle Bar Cardiff
0.1 km
Cardiff’s ultimate bar for games, street food, cocktails, and late-night fun in a lively, interactive setting.
Tonight Josephine - Cardiff
0.1 km
A vibrant, pink-hued cocktail bar in Cardiff known for creative drinks, themed brunches, and a lively party atmosphere.
Retro
0.1 km
A lively multi-floor nightclub in Cardiff celebrating retro hits, wild parties, and unforgettable nights until the early morning.
Kapu
0.1 km
Experience Cardiff’s vibrant tiki cocktail bar and nightclub with expertly crafted drinks and a lively tropical atmosphere.
Brewhouse
0.1 km
Experience Cardiff’s vibrant live music scene with great food, drinks, and a lively atmosphere at Brewhouse in the Old Brewery Quarter.
Heidis Bier Bar Cardiff
0.1 km
Experience authentic Bavarian fun and lively nightlife at Heidi's Bier Bar, Cardiff’s quirky hotspot on Mill Lane open late every day.
Mocka Lounge
0.1 km
Lively cocktail bar and nightclub in Cardiff’s Mill Lane with great drinks, friendly service, and a vibrant social scene day and night.
Coyote Ugly Saloon Cardiff
0.1 km
Neon-lit, party-first American saloon on St Mary Street — loud music, bar-top dancing and grill fare for groups and celebrations.
Be At One - Cardiff
0.1 km
Lively cocktail bar in Cardiff city centre with 100+ drinks, happy hours, masterclasses, and a buzzing party atmosphere.
Slug & Lettuce - St Mary St Cardiff
0.1 km
Vibrant Cardiff cocktail bar on St Mary Street, famed for bottomless brunches, creative mixes, and lively nights in the city heart.
The Philharmonic
0.2 km
A bustling multilevel pub and nightclub in Cardiff city centre, offering cocktails, brunches, rooftop vibes, and lively entertainment.
Peppermint Bar
0.2 km
Sophisticated cocktails, vibrant atmosphere, and a heated outdoor terrace in the heart of Cardiff city centre.
The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar in Cardiff
0.2 km
A dynamic three-floor cocktail bar in Cardiff offering inventive drinks, lively music, and unforgettable nights out.
Dirty Martini - Cocktail Bar in Cardiff
0.2 km
Sophisticated cocktails and vibrant nightlife meet in the heart of Cardiff’s city centre at Dirty Martini.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Metros
0.1 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.
For Your Eyes Only
0.3 km
Elegant and vibrant dance club in Cardiff’s city centre offering stylish interiors, live entertainment, and a lively nightlife atmosphere.
Clwb Ifor Bach
0.5 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
0.5 km
Cardiff's unyielding rock fortress on Womanby Street: live metal mayhem, cheap drinks, and a beer garden for the faithful.
Pulse
0.5 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 CUBE
0.5 km
Cardiff’s vibrant nightclub hotspot offering dynamic music, dancing, and an electric atmosphere in the heart of the city.
CIRCUIT Cardiff
0.6 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.
Tiger Tiger Cardiff
0.6 km
A dynamic nightclub with themed rooms and diverse bars offering a vibrant nightlife experience in the heart of Cardiff.
The Vaults
1.6 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
1.8 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.
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.
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
16.1 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
- Lively
- Unique
- Fun-filled
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Reel-Friendly
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Adults Only
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
