Echoing a true Texan-style Barbecue with high quality meats, Spitfire Barbecue opened its new restaurant in Cardiff on St Mary’s Street at the end of September. Since the opening, the restaurant has gained huge traction due to its fresh, authentic Texan, with South African influence, dishes. Eager to try this hugely anticipated restaurant, my partner and I headed over on a drizzly November evening and we were met with a rustic, cowboy-inspired atmosphere; instantly warming us.
This two-level restaurant and bar flawlessly encapsulates the sensation of a Texan joint; half saloon, half smokehouse humming with light chatter and the clink of plates. The inspiration of Spitfire Barbecue is to cook low and slow on authentic smokers over charcoal to deliver succulent, rich flavours.
Seated in a booth upstairs with a view over one of Cardiff’s busiest streets, the waitress kindly directed us to some of Spitfire Barbecue’s well-loved dishes on the menu, all to the soundtrack of country tunes drifting in the air. Diving straight in, we ordered the Brisket Burnt Ends, the Spitfire St Louis Rib, the Mac and Cheese and the Dirty Fries. The dishes arrived in no time at all, along with a side of the Pit Beans to complete our banquet.
The Brisket Burnt Ends were a total showstopper. Smoked then grilled and tossed in Spitfire Barbecue’s signature BBQ sauce, these tender pieces fell apart and melted in the mouth. The rugged smoky flavours poured out of the meat, becoming a truly divine experience. However, the Spitfire St Louis Rib was a competitive contender for the top spot. The bone in pork belly rib was smothered in Spitfire Barbecue’s homemade rib rub then drizzled with a smoky glaze. Chunks of pork tumbled off the bone and it was lusciously moreish.
Turning to the sides, the Dirty Fries continued the smoky cuts crusade with pulled pork resting on the crispy fries, adorned with spicy jalapeño cheese. Alongside the meat feast, the creamy, indulgent Mac and Cheese balanced the fire-kissed flavours. The Pit Beans were drenched in a spicy tomato sauce, complementing the char-grill notes.
Every mouthful felt heavenly and sumptuous and with the plentiful portion sizes, I can only recommend that you come hungry. We agreed that we were totally stuffed, until we were tempted with desserts…
Taunted by the thought of the classic chocolate brownie, we suddenly had room for more! A warm, gooey and silky brownie paired with a scoop of velvety vanilla ice cream : the dessert of dreams.
As well as the classic chocolate brownie, we had the chance to try the Biscoff Sundae. Under the layers of whipped cream and ice cream were bits of caramelised banoffee, a crunchy contrast to the buttery cream.
Our evening at Spitfire Barbecue was a divine experience of rich meats and indulgent sides, ending on a sweet note. All the dishes are very well priced for the generous portions; I cannot recommend Spitfire Barbecue enough!
Reviewed by Helen Turnbull
Spitfire Barbecue Cardiff
39-41 St Mary St, Cardiff CF10 1AD
