First opening its doors 137 years ago, The Corner House has long been a much-loved spot, standing proudly on the corner of Cardiff’s iconic Caroline Street. Whether you’re after a drink to soak up the city’s atmosphere, a screen to catch the live sport, or a hearty sit-down meal, The Corner House has always been a staple choice for both locals and visitors alike.
This year, the venue has undergone a stylish renovation, breathing fresh life into the familiar favourite. The transformation was clear the moment we stepped inside and made our way upstairs to the restaurant, where we were greeted with a burst of bright colours, bold wallpaper and the backdrop of upbeat pop music.
However, the restaurant offers more than new décor, but also new flavours. The first to catch my eye was the Banana Mai Tai from the all-new drinks menu and it certainly didn’t disappoint. Topped with dried pineapple, the cocktail struck the perfect balance of sweetness and punch, with just the right hint of banana. It quickly stole the show as my favourite drink of the evening and honestly, I’d go back just for it!
starter
Refreshed by our drinks, we turned our attention to starters, choosing the chef’s recommended Slow-Cooked Beef Croquettes and the Chicken Yakiniku Skewers suggested by our lovely server, Jorja.
The chicken skewers were perfectly chargrilled, complemented by a bed of slaw and a squeeze of lime that created a delicious flavour combination. Yet the real highlight was the accompanying satay sauce which elevated the dish and kept us coming back for more. Of the two starters, the croquettes were by far our favourite, with tender beef that melted in the mouth, encased in a golden, crisp coating. The beef dripping sauce was a subtle addition, but the croquettes were already so delicious that they shone perfectly on their own.
With the starters cleared almost as quickly as they arrived, we were ready to dive into the main courses, eager to see if they could live up to the high standard already set. I was tempted by the Crispy Duck & Pineapple Salad, but when the pineapple salad was no longer available, the staff were very accommodating and suggested the super green salad with duck instead. The salad featured more unusual ingredients, including samphire, red chicory, avocado and apple, creating an intriguing, sophisticated blend of sweet and savoury flavours. The duck was a lovely addition to the dish, adding a richness without overpowering the balance of flavours.
main course
Opting for a classic choice, the Dirty Burger came stacked with streaky bacon, melted cheese, salad, relish and pickles, served alongside skin-on fries and a beef dripping sauce. The seeded bun and high-quality ingredients enhanced it beyond your average burger, while the dipping sauce added an extra layer of flavour. We also couldn’t resist trying the Billionaire’s Fries, garnished with parmesan, prosciutto and truffle mayonnaise. The toppings on these were incredible and left us wishing there was even more to smother over the fries!
Feeling pleasantly full after our mains, I couldn’t resist another glance at the cocktail menu and opted for the Raspberry Ripple, recommended by Jorja to satisfy my sweet tooth. Truly living up to its name, the cocktail was like a dessert in a glass, with the drink’s rich flavours beautifully contrasted by the sharpness of the dried raspberry garnish, adding to the indulgence.
dessert
As if one dessert weren’t enough, I took one look at the Toffee Crème Brûlée and knew I needed to try it. Golden-brown and caramelised on the outside yet gorgeously gooey in the middle, the classic dessert was executed perfectly, with the notes of toffee making it even more decadent. I was equally impressed by the side of sable biscuits, the spongey, fresh texture clearly showing they were homemade.
To finish with a showstopper, we selected the highly recommended Chocolate Bomb. Decorated with an Oreo, meringue and dried raspberry soil, the bomb concealed a brownie, Amarena cherries and vanilla ice cream, ready to be revealed with a generous pour of thick chocolate sauce. The dessert tasted as amazing as it looked and the melting of the bomb made the dining experience extra special.
As we made our way out, the bar buzzed with energy while the outdoor seating area was filled with people sipping drinks and soaking up the last of the evening sun.
It was the perfect end to a dining experience that served a relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere and exceeded our expectations on all fronts. The staff were friendly, attentive and knowledgeable, regularly checking in to ensure we were satisfied. The service was prompt and the food beautifully presented, with flavours that truly impressed. While the prices reflect the presentation and quality of ingredients, the experience feels worth it for a special treat. The transformation has left us thoroughly impressed and The Corner House is a spot we’d happily recommend to anyone looking for a stylish place to catch up with friends over dinner and drinks.
To book a table visit: cornerhousecardiff.co.uk
Reviewed by Katie Bowen
