The Sultan Restaurant is a Turkish and Mediterranean restaurant located at The Big Windsor, Stuart Place, Cardiff CF10 5BU, United Kingdom. It is housed in a Grade II listed building dating back to 1882, offering a unique dining experience that blends history with culinary excellence. The menu features a variety of traditional dishes, including hot and cold mezes, grilled meats, and seafood, all prepared with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The restaurant is known for its generous portions and attentive service, providing a warm and inviting atmosphere for guests. The Sultan is open daily from 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
What each source says
- Google 4.8 1,048
- Open Table 4.5 60
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 Dietary Needs The restaurant is noted for its ability to accommodate dietary restrictions, including dairy allergies. This makes it a great option for diners with specific needs, ensuring everyone can enjoy their meal.
- Exceptional Food Quality The Sultan offers delicious, authentic Turkish cuisine made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Many reviewers highlighted the flavorful dishes and beautiful presentation, making it a standout dining experience.
- Generous Portions and Value Many reviewers found the portion sizes to be plentiful and the overall value for money to be excellent. The combination of quality food and generous portions makes for a satisfying dining experience.
- Outstanding Service The staff is consistently described as friendly, attentive, and accommodating. From warm welcomes to helpful service throughout the meal, the team creates a positive and memorable dining experience.
- Stylish Atmosphere The restaurant boasts a stylish ambiance, blending historic architecture with modern interiors. This creates a welcoming and enjoyable environment for various occasions, from family meals to date nights.
Criticised
- Can Be Noisy During Peak Hours Some reviewers noted that the restaurant can get quite noisy during busy periods. This might not be ideal for those seeking a quiet and intimate dining experience.
- Inconsistent Food Temperature One reviewer experienced issues with food being served at inconsistent temperatures. This resulted in a disappointing dining experience that the restaurant did not adequately address.
- Inconsistent Table Service A few reviewers experienced issues such as being pointed to their table instead of being seated or being offered tables near undesirable areas like restrooms.
- Initial Lack of Alcohol License The restaurant initially opened without an alcohol license, which was a disappointment for some diners. While BYOB was an option with a corkage fee, it may not appeal to everyone.
- Potential for Blandness One reviewer found the food to be a bit bland, suggesting that it may not meet the expectations of those seeking strong, traditional Turkish flavors.
The longer read
The Sultan Restaurant in Cardiff Bay is receiving high praise for its authentic Turkish cuisine, attentive service, and stylish atmosphere, blending historic architecture with modern interior design. Numerous reviewers highlight the exceptional quality and presentation of the food. The lamb dishes, including lamb ribs and pistachio-crusted lamb chops, are consistently mentioned as standouts, often described as some of the best lamb reviewers have ever tasted. The octopus is also frequently praised. The menu offers a wide variety of choices, from grilled meals to hot and cold mezes, with portion sizes that are often described as generous. Many reviewers found the food delicious and well-presented. The complimentary Turkish tea and balloon bread with cheese are appreciated touches. Staff attentiveness and friendliness are recurring themes, with specific mentions of staff members like Muhammad Mahfuz Alam, Aesmin, Surush, Mr. Murat, and Gulșen, and manager Aslan. Reviewers consistently felt welcomed and well-cared for. The service is often described as impeccable, easy, and quick. The atmosphere is lively and busy, contributing to a positive dining experience. The location near the sea adds a special touch. Several reviewers specifically recommend The Sultan for family experiences and celebrations. The restaurant is also noted for its ability to accommodate dietary restrictions, particularly dairy allergies, with many choices available. A few reviewers noted that the restaurant can be noisy during peak hours. Some mentioned the prices are slightly high and suggested more variety on the menu. A couple of reviews mentioned issues with food temperature and a lack of alcoholic beverages (though BYO is permitted with a corkage fee). Overall, the vast majority of reviewers express strong satisfaction and a desire to return, recommending The Sultan to family and friends. The restaurant is described as a fantastic find, offering a refreshing alternative to chain restaurants in the area. Many felt the quality of the ingredients and the skill in cooking are exceptional. The Sultan is considered a great place for a date or family celebration.
A synthesis of published third-party reviews. Not written by Breaks.
Getting there
- Phone
- 029 2049 7776 x44
- Website
- thesultancardiff.com
| Mon | 12:00 - 23:00 |
|---|---|
| Tue | 12:00 - 23:00 |
| Wed | 12:00 - 23:00 |
| Thu | 12:00 - 23:00 |
| Fri | 12:00 - 23:00 |
| Sat | 9:00 - 23:00 |
| Sun | 9:00 - 23:00 |
Against the neighbourhood
Rated 4.8 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?
- How does the grade‑2 listed building enhance the dining atmosphere at The Sultan Restaurant?
- What are the signature Turkish‑Mediterranean dishes that showcase the blend of tradition and innovation at The Sultan?
- In what ways does the restaurant honour the legacy of chef Abel Magnernon from the World War II era?
- When is the optimal season or time of day to experience the fullest flavors and ambience at The Sultan in Cardiff?
- What parking, public transport, and accessibility facilities are available for visitors to The Sultan Restaurant in Cardiff?
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.