Giovannis On The Hayes is a family-run Italian restaurant in Cardiff, established in 1983. Located opposite St David's Hall and the St David's 2 shopping centre, it offers traditional Italian dishes in an authentic atmosphere. The restaurant is popular for parties and events, with special menus for occasions like Christmas. It's an ideal spot to unwind after a theatre visit or a day of shopping.
What each source says
- Tripadvisor 4.0 2,062
- Google 4.0 1,333
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
- Authentic Italian Cuisine Giovanni's offers a wide selection of traditional Italian dishes, prepared with fresh ingredients and bursting with flavor. Diners can enjoy classic pasta dishes, pizzas, and other Italian specialties.
- Exceptional Customer Service The staff at Giovanni's are consistently praised for their friendliness, attentiveness, and willingness to go the extra mile. Many reviewers mention feeling welcomed and well-cared for during their dining experience.
- Generous Portions and Good Value Many reviewers comment on the generous portion sizes offered at Giovanni's, providing good value for the price. Diners can enjoy a satisfying meal without breaking the bank.
- Lively and Welcoming Atmosphere The restaurant is known for its warm and inviting atmosphere, often described as cozy, charming, and family-friendly. The ambiance is enhanced by decorations, music, and the energy of the staff and other diners.
- Swift Service Despite often being busy, Giovanni's is noted for its quick and efficient service. Diners can expect their orders to be taken and delivered promptly, even during peak hours.
Criticised
- Can Be Noisy Some diners have noted that the restaurant can get quite noisy, particularly when busy, which can make conversation difficult. The combination of music and chatter can be overwhelming for some.
- Extra Charges Some customers have experienced extra charges for minor alterations to dishes (eg: swapping pouring cream for ice cream), and not being informed of this charge when ordering.
- Inconsistent Experiences A few reviewers have reported inconsistent experiences, with some visits not living up to the high expectations set by previous ones. This suggests that the quality of food and service may vary.
- Potential for Cramped Seating A few reviewers have mentioned that the seating can be cramped, especially when the restaurant is full. This can make it difficult to move around or feel comfortable.
- Rushed Service While generally prompt, the service can sometimes feel rushed, especially during peak hours. This can detract from the overall dining experience for those looking for a more relaxed pace.
The longer read
Giovanni's on The Hayes is a popular Italian restaurant known for its lively atmosphere, friendly staff, and generous portions of authentic Italian cuisine. Many reviewers highlight the warm and welcoming service, with staff often going the extra mile to accommodate requests and create a memorable dining experience. Several reviewers specifically mention staff members by name, praising their attentiveness and helpfulness. The restaurant's ambiance is frequently described as cozy and charming, with many noting the decor and the collection of celebrity photos adding to the unique atmosphere. It can be busy, especially on weekends and event days, so booking in advance is recommended. The restaurant is praised for its traditional Italian dishes, with the lasagne, penne spezzatino, and various pasta dishes receiving high marks. Reviewers consistently commend the quality of the food and the generous portion sizes. The tiramisu is also a standout dessert, with one reviewer proclaiming it the best they've ever had. The restaurant is considered a good value for the money, with reasonable prices for the quality and quantity of food offered. However, some reviewers have noted occasional inconsistencies in service, particularly during peak hours, with a few mentioning feeling rushed. A couple of reviewers mentioned excessive noise levels due to music, making conversation difficult. Overall, Giovanni's on The Hayes is highly recommended for those seeking an authentic Italian dining experience with a vibrant atmosphere and friendly service. It's a popular choice for both casual meals and special occasions. The restaurant is family-friendly, but its smaller size can make it feel crowded at times. Despite some minor criticisms, the overwhelming majority of reviewers express their satisfaction and intention to return. It is considered a must-visit spot in Cardiff, providing a taste of Italy with a warm Welsh welcome.
A synthesis of published third-party reviews. Not written by Breaks.
Getting there
- Phone
- +44 29 2022 0077
- Website
- giovanniscardiff.co.uk
| 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 | 12:00 - 23:00 |
| Sun | 12:00 - 23:00 |
Against the neighbourhood
Rated 4.0 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 are the most popular dishes on the menu at Giovanni's on the Hayes?
- How would you describe the family-friendly atmosphere and service at Giovanni's on the Hayes?
- Does Giovanni's on the Hayes require reservations and what is the best way to book a table?
- What vegetarian or vegan options are available on the menu at Giovanni's on the Hayes?
- How convenient is the location of Giovanni's on the Hayes for visitors exploring Cardiff city centre and nearby attractions?
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.