Bill’s Restaurant feels like Cardiff’s go-to spot—a haven for after-work chillouts or weekend indulgence. And with Christmas just around the corner, there’s no better time to soak in the festive spirit by the bay. If you’re scouting for a place that’s both calm and buzzing with energy, let me tell you why Bill’s Cardiff Bay stole my heart.
Nestled in the historic Pilotage Building, this charming eatery greets you with its colourful interiors and a homey vibe. Whether it’s a laid-back breakfast, a satisfying lunch, or an evening fueled by cocktails, Bill’s has your back. Add twinkling Christmas decor, the crisp winter breeze by the bay, and you’ve got yourself the perfect seasonal escape. And that’s exactly what I found during my recent visit—a warm, intimate dining experience I’m still raving about.
As my friend Yash and I stepped in, we were welcomed by the inviting glow of candle lit tables, wooden furniture, and walls alive with vibrant hues. It was the perfect setting to unwind after a long day. The staff, radiating friendliness, took their time to explain the menu and even offered personal recommendations. Choosing what to eat felt like a deliciously tough challenge—everything sounded divine!
I started with my go-to espresso martini (£9.50). Its smooth and rich blend of coffee and alcohol was the perfect pick-me-up after a long day while my friend opted for a Raspberry & Pomegranate Lemonade (£4.50)—a refreshing twist that had me wishing I’d ordered it instead. Despite the restaurant being lively with diners, the service was impeccable, and our drinks arrived within minutes. The martini was a smooth caffeine kick which still didn’t help me decide on what I should be eating. I’ve always struggled with menu decisions—every dish always seems tempting—but the staff’s detailed recommendations made the process much easier, even as I debated internally over what to choose. After much deliberation (and my friend smirking at my indecision), I finally settled on Chicken & Sesame Dumplings and Bill’s Truffle Chicken Two Ways. Yash, ever the prepared one, went for Roast Squash Hummus & Flatbread and Chicken Shawarma. And because we couldn’t resist the sound of it, we also ordered a plate of Korean Loaded Fries.
Soon, the starters hit our table, piping hot and irresistible. The Chicken Dumplings (£7.50) were a revelation—crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and paired with Bill’s spicy chutney for that perfect zing. It was that accompanying spicy chutney which added a fiery kick, elevating the dish to a whole new level. For a moment, I forgot all about the rest of the menu, utterly immersed in how good the dumplings were. They were hands-down a 10/10! Yash’s Roast Squash Hummus & Flatbread, priced at £4.50, was a sharing platter worth its weight in gold. The flatbread was soft and well-cooked, the hummus rich and nutty, with a drizzle of olive oil and crunchy pumpkin seeds sealing the deal.
As we relished the starters, the atmosphere around us came alive with a burst of joy. A table nearby was celebrating a birthday, and before long, the entire restaurant joined in, singing “Happy Birthday” as the waitress carried a massive cake to their table. The communal cheer was infectious, creating a moment that felt as warm and vibrant as the food itself. Despite a steady stream of diners, the staff ensured we were never left waiting too long. With our plates cleared and appetites still intact, it was time for the mains—a true feast for the senses!
The mains arrived, and oh boy, we realized we had ordered a feast! My Truffle Chicken Two Ways (£16.50) was indulgence on a plate—a chargrilled chicken breast with truffle and red wine jus, accompanied by creamy mashed potatoes and crispy buttermilk fried chicken. The truffle mayo was a standout, though the portion size was so generous I had to enlist my friend’s help. Yash’s Chicken Shawarma (£14.50) was equally impressive—a delightful mix of garlic flatbread, pickles, mint yogurt, and hummus, all coming together in perfect harmony.
The Korean Loaded Fries (£6.50) – a dish we had added on impulse simply because it sounded intriguing, however, didn’t quite hit the mark for me—the spicy gochujang ketchup and crispy onions lacked the punch I was hoping for.
By the time dessert rolled around, we were almost too full to move, but there was no way we were leaving without indulging. We trusted our waitress and went with her recommendation: the Sticky Toffee Pudding (£7.50). It was pure magic! Served with vanilla ice cream, Biscoff sauce, and biscuit crumble, this dessert was the sweet, soul-satisfying finale we needed. The pudding itself was warm, soft, and sticky in all the right ways, a perfect balance of sweetness that left us both speechless. It was the kind of dessert that stays with you, a comforting hug for the soul. Perfect for sharing, it left us in a blissful sugar coma.
As the evening drew to a close, we couldn’t resist snapping a few Insta-worthy pictures by the dazzling Christmas tree backdrop. With hearts (and bellies) full, we thanked the wonderful staff for their stellar service and vowed to return soon. The Chicken Dumplings and Sticky Toffee Pudding alone are worth the trip back.
So, if you’re looking for a festive dining experience that combines great food, warm vibes, and impeccable service, Bill’s Cardiff Bay is your answer. Trust me—you’ll leave with a smile.
Reviewed by P.R. Gayathri
