Tom Simmons' Brasserie in Cardiff, recently named one of the UK's top 100 Best Local Restaurants by the Good Food Guide, offers a two-course lunch for £25 or three courses for £30. The Good Food Guide described Simmons as having "hit a homerun" with his more affordable menu.
A Bargain Fine Dining Experience
The brasserie, located on Pontcanna Street in the Pontcanna area, provides a luxe yet comfortable setting. The menu changes monthly; July's choices include baked Cornish cod or ricotta gnudi for mains. The reviewer opted for an Iron Age pork croquette starter followed by Carmarthenshire lamb rump, both praised for their quality and execution.
Dish Highlights
The Iron Age pork croquette, named after the breed of pig, was described as "the size of a hockey puck" with a crunchy exterior and soft interior, complemented by pickled apple and celeriac. The Black Bomber and caramelised onion tartlet starter was noted for its daintiness and cheesy richness. The lamb rump main featured artfully arranged petit pois, gem lettuce, mint, and pancetta, with the meat cooked pink and tender.
Value for Money
The reviewer emphasized that the £25 two-course lunch offers exceptional value given the high-quality ingredients and expertise. Additional sides, such as Tom's chips (£8) and house fried chicken (£9), are available but not necessary for a satisfying meal. The set lunch menu or early bird option provides a Michelin Guide and Good Food Guide-approved experience for £50 for two people.
Summer Pop-Up in Pembrokeshire
For those interested in coastal dining, Simmons by the Sea will return to Newport, Pembrokeshire, taking over Tides Kitchen & Wine Bar on Market Street for four weeks in August. Launching on July 31, the pop-up will offer a five-course evening tasting menu celebrating Welsh produce. More information is available at thomas-pontcanna.co.uk.
