EatClub, a dining app offering real-time discounts of up to 50% on food and drinks, is helping Cardiff diners save significantly at independent restaurants and bars. The app connects users with venues looking to fill empty tables during quieter periods, with savings typically ranging from 25% to 50% off the entire bill, including drinks.
Portia Jones, a senior journalist, tested the app across Cardiff and reported saving between 31-42% on meals. Her experiences included brunch in Pontcanna cafes, Indian dishes in Penarth, Italian food in Canton, and Mediterranean cuisine in Roath.
How the app works
EatClub updates offers throughout the day based on restaurant availability. Users can browse deals, book a table, and pay using EatClub Pay, a digital Mastercard linked to their bank card and added to smartphone wallets like Apple Pay or Google Pay. When paying, the app automatically applies the discount and charges the reduced amount to the linked bank account.
The app was founded by hospitality industry figures including CEO Pan Koutlakis and British chef Marco Pierre White. It launched in London in spring 2025 and has since expanded to over 1,500 venues across UK cities including Manchester, Liverpool, Bristol, and Leeds.
Cardiff venues and payment details
Cardiff venues on EatClub include Spitfire Barbecue, Salkaara, Little Kochi, La Dolce Vita, Mint & Mustard, Calabrisella, Mocka Lounge, Graze, V, Lab22, Uncommon Ground, and Bacareto, with more expected to join. According to the EatClub website, restaurants receive the full payment amount, and staff are unaware the app was used.
Jones noted that the EatClub Pay setup can be confusing initially but is worth mastering for the savings. A small service fee may apply to personal profiles. The app is available on iOS and Android.
