Located in the heart of Cardiff, Honest Burgers has become a familiar and reliable fixture in the city’s ever evolving food scene.
Perfectly placed for shoppers, theatre goers and those simply looking for a relaxed meal in the centre of town, the restaurant feels well suited to its surroundings. It strikes that increasingly rare balance between being popular and still feeling approachable, making it a solid option for everything from casual lunches to family dinners and pre evening plans.
The Cardiff restaurant follows the brand’s signature look and feel. Two tone greens,, warm lighting and sturdy wooden tables create a laid back environment that feels comfortable rather than overly styled. There is a lively atmosphere, but it never feels overwhelming, and the layout allows for easy conversation without feeling on top of neighbouring tables.
Staff are friendly, knowledgeable and efficient, contributing to an overall experience that feels smooth and unpretentious. It is also worth noting that Honest Burgers Cardiff caters well to families, offering a dedicated children’s menu designed for smaller appetites, which makes it an accessible choice for diners of all ages.
Honest Burgers has long championed its commitment to quality. British beef sits at the heart of the menu, sourced from trusted farms, while potatoes grown in the UK are turned into their much loved rosemary salted chips. This transparent approach to ingredients has helped the brand build trust over the years, and the Cardiff restaurant reflects that ethos clearly. The menu remains focused and confident, combining well established favourites with a rotating selection of seasonal specials.
We began with the halloumi (£6.80, large), a popular starter choice. The cheese was cooked well, golden on the outside with a satisfying bite that avoided becoming rubbery. Rich and indulgent, it worked nicely as a sharer or a standalone starter. The accompanying chilli jam, however, leaned more towards sweetness than heat.
While pleasant enough, it lacked the punch that many would expect, feeling more like a traditional jam than a spicy counterbalance. A little extra chilli would have lifted the dish, cutting through the saltiness of the halloumi more effectively. Still, it was an enjoyable start and set the tone for the meal to come.
For mains, Honest Burgers Cardiff reminded us exactly why it remains such a popular destination. The Tribute (£13.95) is a firm favourite on the menu and arrived cooked medium rare, exactly as requested. Built around a single aged British beef patty, it is topped with bacon, cheese, onion, pickles and Honest’s signature burger sauce. The beef was juicy and full of flavour, clearly benefiting from both quality sourcing and careful cooking. Everything felt balanced, with no single element overpowering the rest. It is a classic burger done properly, and one that continues to justify its place as a staple on the menu.
Alongside this, we opted for the returning festive favourite, the double smash Camembert burger (£21.50 includes burger, chips, side and drink). This seasonal offering is unapologetically indulgent and leans fully into comfort food territory. Two smashed beef patties form the base, offering crisp, caramelised edges and a rich, meaty centre. These are layered with smoked bacon and a generous portion of deep fried Camembert, coated in a gluten free poppy seed crumb. The addition of cranberry sauce brings a welcome sweetness, while rocket adds a subtle peppery freshness that helps cut through the richness. Served in a toasted bun, it is a bold and satisfying burger that feels perfectly suited to the colder months. The smash style patties also provide a nice contrast to the thicker patty used in The Tribute, showcasing variety without straying from the brand’s core identity.
No visit to Honest Burgers would be complete without mentioning the rosemary chips, and the Cardiff restaurant delivers them just as well as expected. Crisp on the outside, fluffy in the middle and generously seasoned, they remain one of the standout sides on the high street. Simple but expertly executed, they pair effortlessly with both classic and seasonal burgers.
What truly stands out about Honest Burgers Cardiff is its consistency. In a city full of dining options, reliability is a strength. You know what you are getting, but it never feels dull or tired. Seasonal specials like the festive Camembert burger add excitement, while the core menu provides reassurance. The inclusion of a children’s menu further broadens its appeal, making it a genuinely inclusive place to eat.
Overall, our visit to Honest Burgers Cardiff was thoroughly enjoyable. While the halloumi starter could benefit from a little more heat in the chilli jam, the mains more than delivered. With well cooked burgers, quality ingredients, a relaxed atmosphere and thoughtful touches for families, this is a restaurant that continues to earn its place in the city centre. Honest Burgers Cardiff does exactly what it promises.
Honest food, done well, right in the heart of the Welsh capital.
