The Michelin Guide has added Lofft, an intimate 12-seater restaurant hidden above a Cardiff brasserie, to its August list of recommended venues, praising the chefs' "skill, care and reverence" for ingredients.
Located on Pontcanna Street, Lofft sits upstairs at chef Tom Simmons' titular brasserie, Thomas. It opened as part of the venue's 2026 revamp, offering affordable, hearty and quality dishes downstairs while maintaining high-end fine dining above.
Michelin inspectors' verdict
In its August additions list, Michelin said: "Cardiff locals may already be familiar with Chef Tom Simmons from his Pontcanna brasserie, Thomas. Now, he’s unleashing his full talents at this immersive 12-seater counter hidden away above the brasserie."
The guide highlighted dishes such as Carmarthenshire lamb and a suet pudding filled with braised lamb shoulder, adding: "The chefs’ skill, care and reverence for their top-drawer ingredients shines through across delicious dishes... The service is equally impressive, ensuring the entire experience unfolds smoothly and with a smile."
The dining experience
Lofft offers an intimate dining experience where guests can watch the chef's every move, with kitchen skills led by Tom Peters. A visit shortly after the restaurant launched last March featured a 10-course dinner, starting with arrival snacks and ending with petit fours.
The menu that night included wild turbot, iron age pork pastilla and Orkney scallop. The review noted: "The dining experience itself was engaging - Tom took us through each plate's provenance and the tailored product sat there in front of us."
Described as exclusive yet friendly and cosy, the venue's atmosphere was enhanced by fellow diners, creating a welcoming vibe alongside the meal.
Seasonal pop-up in Pembrokeshire
For those further west, Simmons by the Sea is currently running in Newport, Pembrokeshire this summer, taking over Tides Kitchen & Wine Bar on Market Street for four weeks throughout August, including the bank holiday weekend. The seasonal pop-up offers a five-course evening tasting menu showcasing Tom Simmons' approach to Welsh cooking. More information on Lofft is available at thomas-pontcanna.co.uk.
