Porto's is a family-run Italian and Mediterranean restaurant and bar situated in the heart of Cardiff city centre. Established over 20 years ago, it offers a diverse menu that blends traditional Italian and Portuguese cuisines with modern and fusion dishes. The restaurant is known for its authentic flavors, using the finest ingredients and time-honored recipes. Guests can enjoy a variety of dishes, including Espetada Skewers, Bolo De Caco Italia, and Homemade Linguini Pesto. The ambiance is warm and welcoming, making it an ideal spot for both casual dining and special occasions.
What each source says
- Tripadvisor 4.5 774
- Google 4.2 678
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
- Convenient Central Location Situated in the Brewery Quarter of Cardiff, the restaurant is easily accessible and conveniently located near popular attractions like the Principality Stadium. This makes it an ideal spot for pre-event meals or a break during shopping trips.
- Cozy and Inviting Atmosphere The restaurant is often described as cozy, intimate, and having a lovely atmosphere. The ambiance makes it a great place for both casual lunches and special occasion dinners.
- Delicious and High-Quality Food Reviewers rave about the food quality, with mentions of perfectly cooked steaks, flavorful seafood linguine, and authentic Portuguese and Italian dishes. Many praise the use of fresh ingredients and expertly prepared meals.
- Exceptional and Friendly Service The staff is consistently described as friendly, welcoming, and attentive, with many reviewers highlighting personalized interactions and a genuine family-run atmosphere. They go above and beyond to ensure a pleasant dining experience.
- Extensive and Varied Menu The menu offers a diverse selection of Portuguese and Italian dishes, catering to a wide range of tastes. There are also specials and an extensive wine list.
Criticised
- Inconsistent Food Quality While most reviewers praise the food, a few noted inconsistencies in food quality, such as overcooked pasta or cold starters. These experiences can be disappointing compared to the overwhelmingly positive feedback.
- Manager/Owner Interactions A small number of reviewers found the manager or owner to be abrupt or unfriendly, which contrasted sharply with the overwhelmingly positive feedback about other staff members. This inconsistency in service could be off-putting.
- Potential for Slow Service During Peak Hours Some reviewers mentioned slow service, particularly when the restaurant is busy with only a few waitresses. This can impact the overall dining experience, especially during lunch or event days.
- Service Charge An obligatory service charge may be added to the bill.
- Small Portion Sizes A few reviewers mentioned that portion sizes could be larger, particularly considering the price point. This could leave some diners feeling unsatisfied, especially with certain dishes.
The longer read
Mia Porto Due is an independent restaurant located in Cardiff's Brewery Quarter, offering a mix of Portuguese and Italian cuisine. Many reviewers describe the restaurant as a "hidden gem" with a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. The service is consistently praised as friendly, attentive, and efficient, with staff frequently going above and beyond to accommodate customer needs. Several reviewers specifically mentioned the owner and other staff members by name, highlighting their exceptional hospitality and personalized service.
Food quality is a major highlight, with many dishes receiving high praise. The steaks, especially the fillet steak served on a hot stone, are frequently mentioned as being tender, flavorful, and perfectly cooked. Skewers, including the chicken and lamb options, are also popular and generously portioned. Seafood dishes, such as the seafood linguine, monkfish and mussels, and grilled sardines, are often described as fresh and delicious. The pizzas are also recommended, with reviewers praising the quality of the crust and toppings. The garlic mushrooms are a popular starter, as is the garlic pizza. Several reviewers complimented the homemade chips, sauces and desserts like the nata and tiramisu.
The restaurant is noted for its convenient location in the city center, making it easily accessible for shoppers, event attendees (especially those going to rugby matches at Cardiff Principality Stadium), and tourists. The ambiance is often described as lively and fun, especially during peak hours and special events. Many reviewers appreciate that it is not a chain restaurant and offers something different from the typical dining options in the area. The restaurant is considered suitable for various occasions, including family meals, celebrations, and casual lunches or dinners. Reviewers often mention their intention to return, with some being regular customers for years. The restaurant is noted as being accommodating to large groups and is a popular venue for special occasions, such as hen weekends and birthday celebrations. The prices are considered reasonable, offering good value for the quality of food and service. Although some reviewers mentioned occasional slow service during busy periods, the overall consensus is that the positive aspects of the restaurant far outweigh any minor drawbacks.
A synthesis of published third-party reviews. Not written by Breaks.
Getting there
- Phone
- +44 29 2022 7147
- Website
- miaportodue.co.uk
| Mon | 12:00 - 22:00 |
|---|---|
| Tue | 12:00 - 22:00 |
| Wed | 12:00 - 22:00 |
| Thu | 12:00 - 22:00 |
| Fri | 12:00 - 22:00 |
| Sat | 12:00 - 22:00 |
| Sun | 12:00 - 22:00 |
Against the neighbourhood
Rated 4.4 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?
- Which signature dishes at Porto's showcase its Italian and Portuguese fusion?
- What is the typical price range for a main course at Porto's in Cardiff?
- Is Porto's suitable for families with children, and does it offer kid‑friendly menu options?
- When is the ideal time of day or week to dine at Porto's to avoid crowds and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere?
- Does Porto's require reservations for peak hours, and what is their cancellation policy?
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.