Porro is a neighborhood eatery situated near the picturesque Llandaff Cathedral in Cardiff. The restaurant offers a menu that blends modern British cuisine with Italian influences, emphasizing simple, high-quality ingredients. Dishes are crafted using locally sourced Welsh produce, with some ingredients imported directly from Italy to maintain authenticity. The wine and drinks selection is carefully curated to complement the menu, featuring a range of independently sourced wines, bottled lagers, ales, and ciders. In addition to the main dining area, Porro provides a private dining room on the first floor, accommodating up to 22 guests, making it suitable for special occasions and gatherings.
What each source says
- Google 4.6 789
- Tripadvisor 4.5 645
Bar length is review volume, so you can see how much weight sits behind each score. Captured 2026-08-26.
What visitors single out
Liked
- Accommodating for Special Events Porro is an excellent choice for intimate gatherings and larger events. The staff are praised for their willingness to decorate the space, cater to dietary needs, and provide seamless service for weddings and parties.
- Delicious, High-Quality Food Porro consistently delivers outstanding Italian cuisine with fresh ingredients. Diners rave about dishes like the pork belly, sea bass, and homemade pasta, making it a standout dining experience.
- Excellent and Friendly Service Expect a warm welcome and attentive service from the staff. Many reviewers specifically mention individual staff members who go above and beyond to ensure a memorable dining experience.
- Good Value for the Quality While not the cheapest option, many find Porro reasonably priced, especially considering the high quality of the food and service. Set lunch menus offer an affordable way to experience their culinary offerings.
- Great Atmosphere Porro offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere, perfect for various occasions. Whether it's a romantic anniversary dinner or a large group celebration, the ambiance enhances the overall dining experience.
Criticised
- Can Be Pricey While some find it reasonable, others mention that a full meal with wine can be expensive. Be prepared for a higher price point compared to some other restaurants in the area.
- Inconsistent Pizza Quality Some reviewers have been disappointed with the pizza, citing a hard, dry crust. It might be best to stick to pasta dishes or other menu items if pizza quality is a concern.
- Potential for Blandness A few reviewers have noted that some dishes, especially starters and mains, can lack seasoning and strong flavors. Consider adding salt and pepper to taste.
- Sourdough Toast Can Be Hard Although mostly for breakfast, one reviewer mentions the sourdough toast can sometimes be harder than desired. They suggest asking for a steak knife as a workaround.
- Upstairs Atmosphere Less Desirable Some diners find the upstairs seating area less cozy and atmospheric than downstairs. If ambiance is a priority, request a table on the main floor.
The longer read
Porro is a well-regarded Italian restaurant in Llandaff, known for its consistently high-quality food, friendly and efficient service, and welcoming atmosphere, making it a popular choice for both special occasions and regular dining. Many reviewers highlight the excellent service, frequently mentioning specific staff members like Sim, Katalina, Lee, Fabio, Karolina and Simone for their attentiveness, friendliness, and knowledge of the menu. The staff are consistently praised for going above and beyond to accommodate guests, including those with dietary restrictions and special requests. The restaurant is particularly noted for accommodating large groups and private events, such as wedding receptions, anniversary celebrations, and Christmas parties, with reviewers consistently praising the staff's ability to handle these events efficiently and warmly. The food is a standout feature, with many reviewers describing it as delicious, outstanding, and cooked to perfection. The menu offers a wide variety of options, including Italian classics and modern dishes, with reviewers frequently highlighting the use of fresh, high-quality ingredients. Some specific dishes that receive repeated praise include the prawn cocktail, arancini, pork belly, sea bream, ravioli, tiramisu and Sunday lunch offerings, particularly the roast beef and pork belly. The restaurant also offers a well-regarded set lunch menu, providing affordable options with generous portions. While a few reviewers mention that the regular menu can be expensive, most feel that the quality of the food and service justifies the price. The atmosphere is generally described as warm, cozy, and inviting, with a mix of casual and formal dining experiences available. The upstairs dining area is noted as being suitable for private events, while the downstairs area is preferred by some for its more intimate ambiance. Several reviewers mention the restaurant's location on Llandaff High Street as a convenient and pleasant setting. Porro is also recognized as a small, independent restaurant, with many reviewers expressing their support for the establishment. Several reviewers specifically recommend Porro for special occasions, noting that the staff are adept at creating memorable and personalized experiences. The restaurant's attention to detail, high-quality food, and exceptional service make it a top choice for celebrations and gatherings of all sizes. Gluten-free options are available and well-received. Breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner services are all positively reviewed.
A synthesis of published third-party reviews. Not written by Breaks.
Getting there
- Phone
- +44 29 2056 5502
- Website
- porrocardiff.com
| Mon | 8:30 - 21:00 |
|---|---|
| Tue | 8:30 - 21:00 |
| Wed | 8:30 - 21:00 |
| Thu | 8:30 - 21:00 |
| Fri | 8:30 - 21:30 |
| Sat | 9:30 - 21:30 |
| Sun | 9:30 - 15:30 |
Against the neighbourhood
Rated 4.6 against a median of 4.5 across the 59 places to eat we hold for Cardiff, where the most-reviewed is The Ivy Cardiff.
Still deciding?
- What signature dishes showcase Porro’s blend of modern British and Italian flavors using locally sourced Welsh produce?
- Which wines from Porro’s curated, independently sourced list are recommended to complement the seasonal menu?
- Does Porro require advance booking for dinner service, and what is the typical wait time for walk‑in guests?
- Are there gluten‑free, vegetarian, or vegan choices available on Porro’s menu for diners with dietary restrictions?
- How does Porro’s proximity to Llandaff Cathedral influence its ambience and viewing options for a relaxed dining experience?
What this page cannot tell you
- Descriptions and review summaries are supplied by the source index and are reproduced as published; they are not independently verified by Breaks.
- Ratings and review counts are point-in-time snapshots and drift constantly. Check the venue's own site or the rating provider for the current figure.
- Opening hours change seasonally and at short notice. Confirm with the venue before travelling.
- Category labels come from the source index and are occasionally wrong — a venue may be filed under a type that does not match how it trades.
- Straight-line distances understate real walking distance, especially where a river or railway sits between two points.