The Best Indie Coffee Shops in Cardiff City Centre

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Discover 18 locally loved independent coffee shops in Cardiff city centre for artisan brews, irresistible cakes and hearty brunches, perfect for coworking or relaxing.

Dotted across Cardiff city centre’s historic arcades, Grade II-listed Victorian indoor market, and modern shopping centres, a collection of popular local independent coffee shops and cafés waiting to be discovered. Ditch the cappuccino chains, and support a local coffee shop instead. Not only does coffee taste better when it’s brewed by an experienced barista in a quality espresso machine, but you’ll be helping a small business to thrive too. Win-win!

Here are 18 of the most charming independent coffee shops in Cardiff city centre for relaxing, socialising or coworking.

18 of the best independent coffee shops in Cardiff city centre

1. bigmoose

A non-profit coffee shop tucked away just off Queen Street, Bigmoose has proudly held the title of Cardiff’s best coffee shop on Tripadvisor since 2021 – and it’s easy to see why, once you’ve paid them a visit. This welcoming, community-focused café is loved for its exceptional coffee and tempting brunch menu. Don’t miss the eggs Benedict – the hollandaise sauce is spot on!

What truly sets Bigmoose apart, however, is its dedication to mental health support. Through its charity, Bigmoose offers therapy sessions to individuals struggling with their mental health, aiming to provide access within a week – a vast improvement on the lengthy waiting times typically faced in Wales. Every cup of coffee sold helps fund this life-changing initiative, with all profits reinvested into the charity to help transform lives.

4-5 Frederick Street, Cardiff CF10 2DB | Monday – Saturday: 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM; Sunday 10am – 3.30pm

2. Brodie’s Coffee Co

Housed within a dainty hut in Gorsedd Gardens, Brodie’s is hidden from the hustle and bustle of the city centre. Don’t let its size fool you though; while it might be small, this iconic spot has more than made its mark on the Cardiff coffee scene.

Another coffee shop with a commitment to supporting the local community, Brodie’s is praised for helping the homeless with its thoughtful ‘pay it forward’ scheme. Brodie’s Coffee’s recognisable “You Got This” disposable cups are the perfect pick-me-up on a dreary day in Cardiff. Grab a cappuccino to go, and wander over to Cardiff’s impressive Edwardian civic centre to explore landmarks like the National Museum Cardiff and City Hall.

Gorsedd Gardens, Cardiff CF10 3NP | Monday – Sunday: 8am – 5.30pm

3. Coffee Barker

Located in Cardiff’s Edwardian Castle Arcade, Coffee Barker takes its name from the hip independent clothing store, Barker, which once stood in the same spot. Run by Stephen and Charlotte Barker, the coffee shop began as an extension of the clothing store but quickly grew into a standalone venture.

Indulge in a Nutella latte or hot chocolate – quite possibly the most Instagrammed hot drinks in Cardiff! Feeling hungry? The hearty full English breakfast comes highly recommended, while the doorstep sandwiches are great for filling up ahead of a busy day of shopping.

1-5 Castle Arcade, Cardiff CF10 1BU | Monday – Friday: 8.30am – 4pm; Saturday: 8.30am – 5.30pm; Sunday: 10am – 4.30pm

5. Coffi Clwb

Tucked away beneath Jacob’s Antique Centre at West Canal Wharf, Coffi Clwb is a central yet secluded spot offering an inviting space to pause for quality coffee, while exploring one of Cardiff’s most unique venues. Perfectly located for a quick coffee stop en route to Cardiff Central Station, this independent coffee shop is also an ideal starting point to browse the floors of antiques, vintage treasures, and collectibles housed above.

The café prides itself on serving sustainably sourced coffee, with beans roasted by local Cardiff roastery Hard Lines. From smooth lattes to rich espressos, their menu caters to a variety of tastes, with every cup crafted with care. Coffee aside, Coffi Clwb serves a selection of light bites and snacks, including freshly baked cakes and pastries.

6. Corner Coffee Co

Perched at the entrance to High Street Arcade, Corner Coffee is a snug nook serving up rich, energising cups of coffee brewed using quality beans from the likes of Triple Co Roast, Curve Coffee Roasters, Coffee Collective, and Morgon Coffee Roasters.

Go hungry, and treat yourself to a cooked breakfast; it even comes with grilled halloumi! The vegan breakfast looks decent too.

13 High St, Cardiff CF10 1AX | Monday – Friday: 8.30am – 5pm; Saturday & Sunday: 9am – 5pm

7. Coffee Spot

Sitting on Barrack Lane, Coffee Spot is hidden from mainstream Cardiff city centre life. If you don’t know it’s there, it’s very easy to miss. Once you’ve been, however, you’ll kick yourself for not finding it sooner. Serving hearty cups of coffee alongside an appealing array of cakes and bakes, this serene retreat offers a much-needed escape from the hustle and bustle of Queen Street and St. David’s 2.

6 Barrack Ln, St Davids Centre, Cardiff CF10 2FR | Monday – Friday: 8.30am – 6pm; Saturday: 9.30am – 6pm; Sunday: 9.30am – 4.30pm

8. Da Coffee

Located on the ground floor of One Central Square, Da Coffee is a hit among local office workers, although it’s well worth venturing into the building yourself to see what all the fuss is about.

Besides brilliant coffee, the team serves a range of locally sourced food and drink. Fuel up for the day by building your own breakfast, nibble on a a homemade sandwich, or indulge in a steaming hot bowl of traditional Welsh lamb cawl.

Part of the Tramshed Community, Da Coffee has another location at Tramshed Tech coworking space in Grangetown, with another site in Swansea and a new location coming soon to Newport.

One Central Square, Wood St, Cardiff , CF10 1FS | Monday – Friday: 7.30am – 3.30pm

9. Hard Lines

Head to Cardiff’s iconic indoor market to taste some of the best coffee you’ll find in the Welsh capital. Here, local coffee connoisseurs make a beeline for the distinctive pink neon lights of Hard Lines, known for their ethical sourcing and attention to detail with roasting techniques.

For those looking for a more relaxed café vibe, Hard Lines also operates a dedicated, slightly more spacious site in Canton, equally famous for its coffee (not to mention its show-stopping brunches!) Whether you visit their Cardiff Market stall or Canton café, Hard Lines continues to set the standard for specialty coffee in Cardiff.

Unit 25, Cardiff Central Market, CF10 1AU. | Monday – Saturday: 8am – 5pm

10. KIN+ILK

Since opening its first branch on Cathedral Road, Pontcanna, in 2016, KIN+ILK has become a cornerstone of Cardiff’s independent coffee scene, now boasting six locations, including two in the city centre.

Named after ‘family’ (kin) and ‘your kind’ (ilk), KIN+ILK offers a welcoming space for all, serving directly traded specialty coffee like the signature Finca El Corozo from El Salvador, alongside rotating guest blends.

A personal favourite of mine, the St. Davids branch is a popular coworking spot, with its minimalist decor providing a calming environment for work or relaxation

1 Hills St, St Davids Centre, Cardiff CF10 2EW | Monday – Friday: 8am – 7pm; Saturday: 9pm – 7am; Sunday: 10am – 6pm

11. Little Man Coffee

Located on Bridge Street, Little Man Coffee is a haven for coffee enthusiasts and creatives alike, boasting Wales’ most extensive roster of rotating roasters. With ample coworking space and a licensed bar featuring an impressive selection of wines—also available to buy by the bottle—it’s a vibrant spot for work or leisure.

Renowned for its community-focused ethos, Little Man regularly hosts events, including restaurant pop-ups, live music, art exhibitions, and workshops, making it far more than just a coffee shop.

You can also visit Little Man at its Riverside location on Tudor Lane or at Founders & Co in Swansea.

Ivor House, Bridge St, Cardiff CF10 2EE | Monday to Saturday: 7.45am – 6pm; Sunday: 8.30am – 4pm

12. Nata and Co

Popular Portuguese bakery, Nata & Co has grown from humble beginnings at Splott Market into a cherished Cardiff institution, now boasting locations in the city centre and Cardiff Bay. Famous for its signature pastéis de nata – flaky, custard-filled tarts that are the pride of Portuguese baking – it pairs perfectly with a frothy flat white or creamy latte, brewed with rich, aromatic coffee sourced from high-quality beans.

Beyond its iconic pastries, Nata & Co also sells its own freshly baked bread, indulgent cakes, savoury treats and comforting Portuguese soups, like the creamy caldo verde made with fresh greens and salty chorizo.

3-7 Castle Street, Cardiff CF10 1BS | Monday – Saturday: 7am – 6pm; Sunday: 8am – 5pm

13. Pettigrew Tea Rooms and Pettigrew Bakes

Celebrating its 8th birthday this year, Pettigrew Tea Rooms has become a standout name in Cardiff, offering a quintessentially British tearoom experience across several locations. From its original setting at the entrance to Bute Park to its elegant Castle Arcade branch in the city centre, Pettigrew’s venues combine charm with a focus on high-quality food and drink.

Famed for their afternoon teas, they also serve an array of sweet treats, including indulgent pastries like their crème brûlée croissant and tiramisu danish, alongside loose-leaf teas and expertly brewed coffee. Beyond the city centre, find them in Canton and Roath, alongside weekly farmers’ markets.

14. Quantum Roasters

Quantum Coffee Roasters has quickly made a name for itself in Cardiff’s coffee scene, transforming the former Caffè Nero on Duke Street into a quirky indie space. As the latest addition to their growing presence in the city, following original sites in Grangetown and Cardiff Bay, this branch highlights Quantum’s ability to breathe new life into familiar spaces while maintaining their signature creativity and quality.

Known for its impressive range of coffee, Quantum sources beans from some of the world’s finest coffee-growing regions, roasting them in-house to perfection. But it’s their hot chocolate menu that sets them apart for me, featuring indulgent options like the Marimba Venezuela 43% Milk Hot Chocolate and the Kokoa Collection Madagascar 82% Darkest Hot Chocolate. Pair your drink with a slice of their delicious cake, or opt for one of their fresh sandwiches or wraps for a satisfying bite.

6-7 Duke Street, Cardiff CF11 6AJ | Sunday – Monday: 9am – 5pm; Sunday: 10am – 5pm

15. Scaredy Cats

Scaredy Cats Café Bar is a cosy Cardiff coffee shop come lively bar, transitioning seamlessly from daytime coffee meet-ups and remote working to evening drinks and socialising. Enjoy expertly brewed coffees, craft beers, cocktails, and indulgent cakes.

Notably, Scaredy Cats is fully vegetarian, with vegan alternatives available for most menu items.

16 Working St, St Davids Centre, Cardiff CF10 1GN | Monday – Friday: 9am – 9pm

16. Uncommon Ground

Contrary to what the name might suggest, Uncommon Ground has been familiar territory for Cardiff coffee lovers since 2015. Nestled in the charming Royal Arcade, this trendy family-run gem combines dim lighting, eclectic vibes, and edgy décor.

The menu features a diverse selection of coffees, all roasted in-house to ensure impeccable freshness and coffee flavour. For hot chocolate enthusiasts, Uncommon Ground offers a range of indulgent options to satisfy any sweet tooth. Pair your drink with one of their irresistible cakes, like the Lotus Biscoff cruffin – a heavenly croissant-muffin hybrid. If you’re after something savoury, the flatbreads, sandwiches, and brunch dishes come highly recommended too.

Whether you’re catching up with friends or planning a low-key date, Uncommon Ground is a fantastic choice. The laptop policy is worth bearing in mind if you’re looking for a place to cowork in Cardiff – you’re welcome to stay for an hour if working (or longer, as long as you keep ordering coffee!).

10 Royal Arcade, Cardiff CF10 1AE | Monday – Saturday: 8am – 6pm; Sunday: 9am – 5pm

17. Waterloo Tea

After laying its foundations as a humble teahouse in Waterloo Gardens, Penylan over 15 years ago, Waterloo Tea now boasts four locations, including a Cardiff city centre branch in Wyndham Arcade.

While tea steals the limelight – with over 50 different kinds of teas and infusions to choose from including single farm, unadulterated and blends – coffee also plays a starring role. In fact, most of Waterloo Tea’s awards have been for its coffee: a house blend of 60% Ethiopian and 40% Columbian. 

Go with an empty belly to make the most of the all-day brunch menu, a diverse mix of British classics including hunger-busting full breakfasts and Welsh rarebit, alongside internationally inspired dishes like Turkish eggs with Merguez sausage and Moroccan-spiced chicken brioche.

21-25 Wyndham Arcade, Cardiff CF10 1FH | Monday – Friday: 8.30am – 4pm; Saturday: 9am – 5pm; Sunday: 9am – 4pm

18. Whocult Coffee and Donuts

Located in Cardiff’s Royal Arcade, WhoCult Coffee + Donuts has become a go-to spot for indulgent treats and quality coffee. Famous, for their handmade, artisan donuts, each is crafted from scratch with high-quality ingredients, resulting in both visually striking and delicious creations.

Established in 2019 by Scott Magill, WhoCult began as an offshoot of the clothing brand ‘WhoClo’ and quickly gained a loyal following. Today, the Cardiff store is one of several locations across Wales, including Bridgend, Porthcawl, Barry, Newport, and Swansea, all sharing the same dedication to flavour and quality.

Whether you’re after a classic coffee or one of their signature donuts, WhoCult Coffee + Donuts is a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth in Cardiff.

20 Royal Arcade, Cardiff CF10 1AE | Monday to Friday: 10am – 6pm; Sunday: 11am – 5pm

Can you think of any other lovely independent Cardiff coffee shops I haven’t mentioned? Let me know about them by leaving a comment, and I may end up adding them to my list!

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