Bridgend’s Hidden Culinary Gems: 17 Must-Try Dishes

A new guide — Bite into Bridgend — is set to put Bridgend’s burgeoning food scene on the map, as Visit Bridgend reveals 17 of the area’s best independently owned culinary experiences.

At a time when the UK’s independent restaurant sector faces continued economic challenges, Bridgend town centre is bucking the trend — with more than 30 independent restaurants, cafés, and bars, it is fast earning a reputation as a vibrant food and drink destination.

From long-standing Welsh-Italian restaurants and bistros to innovative culinary hotspots, the Bite into Bridgend list highlights the town’s diverse offer. Visitors may be surprised to see the likes of Gin & Sake’s sashimi platter, Fusion’s katsu chicken croquettes and Taqueria’s carnita pork tacos among the standout dishes.

And on Saturday 1st March, Bridgend will be buzzing with St David’s Day celebrations, featuring a military parade through the town centre and exclusive discounts at several local independent restaurants. With a thriving food scene and a packed day of festivities, it’s the perfect time to visit — and start ticking off the list.

Cllr Neelo Farr, Bridgend County Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Economic Development, and Housing, said: “Bridgend is home to a thriving independent food scene, with innovative chefs and restaurateurs serving up everything from classic Welsh dishes to bold, modern flavours. The Bite into Bridgend list is the perfect way for residents and wider members of the public to explore everything that’s on offer.

“We are proud to have played a part in supporting many of these businesses with the regeneration of their buildings by securing Welsh Government funding through schemes such as the Townscape Heritage Initiative and Transforming Towns grants. I would also encourage anybody who has not yet sampled any of the delicious cuisine that’s on offer to pay a visit.”

17 unmissable foodie experiences

1. A taste of Mexico with the Carnita Pork Taco trio at Taqueria.
2. Bridgend’s go-to Italian classic — Colosseo’s calzone.
3. The ultimate smashed BRGR.
4. A taste of Welsh culture with Bakestone’s legendary Welsh cakes.
5. A next-level sashimi platter at Gin & Sake.
6. An Insta-worthy moment with The Almighty Almond croissant at BEAT.
7. The seriously stacked sharing Bucket of Nachos at Clwb Mexicana.
8. A trendy twist on pan-Asian cuisine: the Katsu Chicken Croquettes at Fusion.
9. Gin & Sangria’s plant-based take on a Spanish classic, the Paella Verduras.
10. The dreamiest tiramisu from IL Vecchio Ristorante.
11. The crispy aubergine chips, drizzled with orange blossom honey, at La Cocina Tapas.
12. A boujee Sunday roast at Marble Steakhouse.
13. The escargot in garlic butter at Morgan Bistro — a Bridgend institution.
14. The *best* patatas bravas at Poco Poco.
15. The ultimate sweet treat of Biscoff Cookie Bar at POGO Bakery.
16. The go-to for Greek comfort food — beef stifado at Tholos.
17. The perfect Italian pairing — Sicilian crispy arancini with a Zia Nina Spritz.