Ludo has just opened a brand new bar in Cardiff with a big focus on sports, food and good times, so of course we had to check it out on opening weekend.
If you’re into sports, this is the kind of place you’re going to want to hang out. Everywhere you turn there’s a screen showing live action, and if you book one of the booths you can even request the game you want to watch. Perfect if you’ve got a group of mates who follow the same team.
The outdoor area really stood out for us. It’s got Cardiff’s biggest outdoor UHD screen, and it instantly gave us Tiger Yard vibes, but in the middle of St Mary’s Street. There’s even talk of outdoor heating, so it’ll work as an all-weather option too.
Drinks wise, there are stacks of beers on tap. A highlight for us was Ffresh, a juicy hoppy pale ale brewed just down the road by Glamorgan Brewery. The local touch is always nice to see.
The food menu is massive. We tried the Ludo cheeseburger, nachos and the steak sandwich, all of which were full of flavour.
For those looking for something a bit different, you’ll find things like a full kilo of chicken wings, wood-fired pizzas, steaks, sharing platters and even a Sunday roast.
If you’re bringing kids, they’re welcome too, with 50% off mains (excluding grill items).
It’s not just about sitting back and watching though. Outside there’s a basketball hoop and inside you’ll find electronic dart boards.
But really, the main focus here is watching wall-to-wall sport with friends and family. You won’t even miss the action if you nip to the toilet, thanks to the screens in there too.
The site itself will be familiar to many as The Alchemist, but while a few touches remain, the place has been completely transformed.
With room for over 700 people, it’s Ludo’s most ambitious venue yet, backed by St Austell Brewery and the ETM Group. Cardiff follows Bath and Exeter in their rollout, and it feels like the concept really fits here.
There’s table service, bar service and even QR codes to order straight from your seat, so however you like to do things, you’re covered. The outdoor bar also means you don’t need to wander far for a top-up.
There’s even a TV screen in the toilets, so you don’t miss your team score.
On top of the sport, Ludo is set to host live music and comedy nights, making it more than just a place to catch the match. I can easily see it being packed right through to the new year.
If you’re planning to go, I’d definitely recommend booking a table, especially if you want food or a good indoor spot to watch the game.
You’ll find Ludo Cardiff at 117 St Mary’s Street.
