Yakitori1 is a modern Japanese restaurant in Cardiff Bay, offering a diverse menu that includes sushi, grilled meats, fish, rice, and noodles. The restaurant emphasizes fresh, sustainable ingredients and communal dining, creating a welcoming atmosphere for guests. With an open kitchen design, diners can watch chefs prepare dishes like yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) and other traditional Japanese favorites. The interior features long wooden tables and quirky hanging lights, providing a trendy and casual setting for both lunch and dinner. Yakitori1 also offers takeout and delivery services through platforms like Deliveroo and Uber Eats, catering to a wide range of dining preferences.
What each source says
- Google 4.5 1,000
- Open Table 4.7 884
- Tripadvisor 4.5 646
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
- Delicious and Flavorful Cuisine The restaurant offers a diverse menu with flavorful dishes that cater to various tastes, including vegan options. Dishes like the ramen, katsu curry, and various sushi rolls receive high praise for their taste and quality.
- Excellent and Friendly Service Numerous reviews highlight the friendly, attentive, and efficient service provided by the staff. Servers are often described as welcoming and helpful, contributing to a positive atmosphere.
- Good Value for Money While some dishes may be pricier, many customers feel the restaurant offers excellent value, especially considering the quality of the ingredients and the overall dining experience. Lunch specials and other promotions enhance affordability.
- High-Quality, Fresh Food Many diners consistently praise the freshness and quality of the ingredients, particularly in the sushi and sashimi dishes. The food is also beautifully presented, enhancing the overall dining experience.
- Quick Service Many reviewers note the fast service, with food arriving promptly even when the restaurant is busy. This is ideal for those looking for a quick and efficient dining experience, especially before attending events nearby.
Criticised
- Inconsistent Atmosphere Some reviewers find the atmosphere too clinical or more akin to a cafe than a restaurant. The decor may lack the ambiance expected for a fine dining experience.
- Inconsistent Food Quality While most reviewers praise the food, a few have experienced inconsistencies, such as underwhelming sushi or tough meat in ramen dishes. Some found certain dishes overpriced for the quality received.
- Limited Drink Selection A few reviewers mentioned that the drink selection could be expanded, particularly for those seeking a wider variety of options.
- Location Near Door Can Be Uncomfortable Sitting near the entrance can be chilly and disruptive due to the frequent opening of the door, impacting the overall dining comfort for some customers.
- Service Can Be Inconsistent While generally praised, some reviewers experienced slow or inattentive service, particularly when the restaurant was busy. Others noted that staff could be more present and attentive after the initial food delivery.
The longer read
Yakitori1 is a popular Japanese restaurant located in Cardiff Bay, known for its fresh, flavorful food, efficient service, and pleasant atmosphere. Many reviewers praise the sushi, sashimi, and noodle dishes, particularly the ramen, yaki soba, and katsu curry. The restaurant is considered a great place for both lunch and dinner, with many patrons highlighting its convenience for pre-theater dining due to its proximity to the Millennium Centre. A significant number of reviewers describe the food as outstanding, delicious, and well-presented, emphasizing the freshness of the ingredients. Many customers specifically recommend the sushi and sashimi, noting the high quality of the fish. Others enjoy the chicken katsu curry, ramen, and various noodle dishes. Several reviewers also highlight the restaurant's ability to cater to different dietary needs, including vegan options. The service at Yakitori1 is frequently described as friendly, attentive, and efficient. Many reviewers appreciate the staff's attentiveness and willingness to accommodate requests. The speed of service is also a common point of praise, with many noting that food arrives quickly, even during busy periods. The restaurant's atmosphere is generally described as lively yet relaxed, making it suitable for various occasions. Some reviewers appreciate the modern and clean decor. While some find the ambiance more akin to a cafe than a restaurant, the cleanliness and spaciousness are generally well-received. Yakitori1 is considered a good value, especially when considering the quality of the food and service. Several reviewers mention that the prices are reasonable for sushi and Japanese cuisine. Some reviewers specifically point out the value of the lunch specials. Many reviewers express a strong intention to return, indicating a high level of satisfaction with their dining experience. The restaurant is frequently recommended to others, suggesting a positive reputation among its patrons. Several reviewers mention that Yakitori1 is their favorite Japanese restaurant in Cardiff, further reinforcing its popularity and quality. A number of reviewers appreciate the restaurant's COVID-safe measures, such as temperature checks and readily available hand sanitizer, indicating a commitment to customer safety and well-being. A few reviewers mention minor issues such as slow service during peak hours or limited dessert options but these concerns are outweighed by the overwhelmingly positive feedback regarding the food, service, and overall dining experience.
A synthesis of published third-party reviews. Not written by Breaks.
Getting there
- Phone
- 029 2049 5050
- Website
- yakitori1.co.uk
| Mon | 12:00 - 14:30, 17:30 - 22:00 |
|---|---|
| Tue | Closed |
| Wed | 12:00 - 14:30, 17:30 - 22:00 |
| Thu | 12:00 - 14:30, 17:30 - 22:00 |
| Fri | 12:00 - 22:00 |
| Sat | 12:00 - 22:00 |
| Sun | 12:00 - 22:00 |
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.
Booking
Still deciding?
- What are the most popular or recommended dishes to try at Yakitori1 in Cardiff?
- Does Yakitori1 offer vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free menu options for diners with dietary needs?
- What is the overall dining experience like at Yakitori1, including the atmosphere and service?
- Is it necessary to make a reservation at Yakitori1, or can you walk in and expect a table?
- What are the best ways to reach Yakitori1 in Cardiff, and is there convenient parking nearby?
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.