Terra Mare, a restaurant that promises to bring the authentic flavours of Puglia, Southern Italy, to the Welsh capital’s vibrant dining scene – will open its doors for the first time this Friday.
Set in a former cocktail bar on High Street, just steps from Cardiff Castle, Terra Mare has transformed the space, which now boasts a stunning fifty cover dining room with additional seating in the bar area at the front, and on its outdoor terrace.
In the main dining area, opulent dark green panelling creates a warm and sophisticated ambience, whilst cosy booth seating with soft lighting offers a more intimate dining experience. The palette reflects an undertone of Mediterranean influence, with bespoke detailing throughout the feature bar and wine display cabinets.
At the heart of Terra Mare is a menu steeped in tradition, crafted to reflect the vibrant flavours and rich culinary heritage of Puglia – including daily handmade pastas, a signature of Chef Francesco Germinario, whose Puglian roots are evident in every dish.
Chef Francesco’s culinary journey draws from his roots, and his work in top London kitchens. Now, he’s blending tradition with innovation to bring the taste of Italy to the menu at Terra Mare.
Whether indulging in a few small plates, trying the set menu or indulging in the full seven-course taster experience, Terra Mare’s menus are a journey through the classic Italian way of dining. From cicchetti to antipasti, primi piatti, secondi piatti, and finally dolce, guests can choose to indulge in a few plates – or the full seven courses.
Signature dishes include Colombaccio alla cacciatora – wood pigeon breast & leg, with squash, burnt leek, shaved cacao; Zuppa di pesce alla gallipolina – Cuttlefish, mussel & langoustine stew with sea herbs and croutons; Aubergine Parmigiana with roasted tomatoes, mozzarella and spenwood; and Polpo alla griglia – grilled octopus with nduja and cannellini beans.
A set menu will also offer two courses for £25 or three courses for £30. Meanwhile in the bar area, a range of crafted cocktails, draught beer and premium wines are complimented by a short bar ‘snacks’ menu – which includes dishes like Fritto Misto – deep fried fish with Pembrokeshire seaweed and olive & caper mayo; Bruschetta – with Stracciatella, tomatoes and anchovies; and Ragu Orecchiette – slow cooked feather blade of beef with parsley pistou and a cheese crisp.
To browse Terra Mare’s sample menus, click here.
“We’re incredibly excited to bring the essence of Puglia to Cardiff,” said Daf Andrews, Co-Founder of A&M Hospitality Group. “Whether people are booking in with us for the full seven course experience – or just walking into our bar area for a quick glass and a bite to eat – we hope to offer something for everyone.”
Terra Mare will open on the 11th October (tomorrow) and bookings are now open at https://terramare-amh.com. You can also follow the restaurant on Instagram at instagram.com/terramarerestaurant.