The Dragonfly pub in Coedkernew, Newport, has been given a full transformation, and after hearing so much about the changes, we decided it was time to see what all the fuss was about.
The Dragonfly has been a familiar sight for the past 20 years, sitting neatly between Newport and Cardiff on the A48. Its location makes it an easy spot for both cities, whether for a midweek lunch, weekend escape or relaxed evening meal.
Walking inside, the difference is clear straight away. Although it’s a modern building, the refurbishment has given it a country farmhouse feel, with rustic beams, deep greens, rich reds and a mix of cosy corners and smart finishes. It has a welcoming warmth to it, but with an upmarket edge that feels like a step up from your average pub dining experience.
The team made us feel at home from the start. You could tell they were genuinely glad to be back after the refurbishment, and just as amazed by the transformation as we were.
They were also really knowledgeable when it came to taking us through the new menu. We had our nine-month-old with us, and nothing was too much trouble. The restaurant even had its own baby cutlery ready, just in case we had forgotten ours, which was a thoughtful touch that made the whole experience easier.
The menu itself has had just as much attention as the décor, and it took us longer than usual to make our minds up. There’s plenty of choice, from steaks and fish to signature burgers, but what caught our attention were the new skewers.
After a quick recommendation from the team (not that we needed persuading), we went with the Moroccan-spiced chicken breast. At £19.25, it was packed with flavour and had just the right kick of heat without losing its taste.
The portion size was generous, especially with the triple-cooked chips and slaw we chose on the side, but next time we’d be tempted to add a second skewer for £8.95 – it was that good.
From the pub classics section, we went for the slow-cooked pork belly, served with a pulled pork and apple bon bon, creamy chive mash, green beans and crisp crackling (£19.95). It was a hearty dish, the kind of comfort food you want on a cooler evening. We also added scallops for an extra £4, which made it feel even more like a treat.
To share, we ordered halloumi fries with chipotle chilli relish (£4.25 each). The portions were far bigger than we expected, and very reasonably priced too. To wash it down, it was nice to see local brewery Tiny Rebel represented on draft, alongside a wide range of beers, wines and spirits.
Dessert wasn’t an afterthought either. There’s a strong selection of sweet treats and after-dinner bites, including mini puddings paired with hot drinks if you prefer something lighter. We opted for the double chocolate brownie with ice cream and the trio of ice creams, both the perfect way to round off the meal.
The outside area has also been given a makeover. Although we stayed indoors on this visit, the beer garden now has a mix of wooden tables and stylish rattan seating, which will no doubt come into its own in the warmer months. Families are also well catered for, with a children’s menu available, and dogs haven’t been forgotten either, with water bowls and treats on hand.
General Manager Mark Rayner and his team have clearly worked hard to give The Dragonfly a new lease of life. The pub can now host over 100 covers inside and out, with a new private meeting room that seats up to 20, making it a handy choice for businesses in the area as well as family gatherings.
With Christmas on the horizon, The Dragonfly is already taking bookings, including a three-course meal on Christmas Day itself for £93 per person. For corporate lunches and festive catch-ups, it’s likely to be a popular option given its location.
Our visit showed us that The Dragonfly is more than just another pub on the edge of town. It has a fresh look, a menu that balances hearty classics with modern flavours, a friendly team who go out of their way to help, and a welcoming atmosphere that makes it worth the trip whether you’re local or coming from Cardiff. We’ll certainly be back, and next time, an extra skewer might just be on the cards.
To book a table, visit: The Dragonfly Newport.
