Welcome to Merola's
Merola's, nestled in Cardiff, is a charming Italian restaurant celebrated for its warm, family-oriented atmosphere and exceptional service. With over 40 years of culinary expertise, the menu showcases traditional Italian dishes that delight the palate, such as mouth-watering lasagna, calzones, and the acclaimed garlic bread. Guests rave about the generous portions and memorable flavors, often likening the experience to dining at a beloved family establishment. The attentive and personable staff foster a welcoming environment, making every visit feel special. Whether for a casual meal or a celebration, Merola's promises a taste of Italy right in the heart of Cardiff.
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181 Clare Rd, Cardiff CF11 6QS, United Kingdom Hotline: +44 29 2039 8803
Welcome to the charming world of Merola's, a beloved Italian restaurant nestled in the heart of Cardiff at 181 Clare Rd, CF11 6QS. With a rich history spanning over four decades, Merola's has earned a reputation as a hidden gem for both locals and visitors alike. The moment you step inside, you're enveloped by an atmosphere that is both warm and welcoming—attributes that are reflected in the personal service offered by a team that treats you like family.
At Merola's, the magic begins not just with the food but with the exceptional service. As one satisfied guest, David L, aptly described, the waitstaff's friendly demeanor transforms a simple meal into a memorable experience. The attentiveness he received, marked by the casual yet affectionate use of his first name 'Dave', truly encapsulates the familial vibe that Merola's strives to provide. It's clear that customers feel more like cherished guests than just patrons in a restaurant.
The cuisine is a celebration of Italian flavors and traditions, serving up an array of dishes that consistently impress. From the *mini lasagna* that David couldn't stop raving about to the perfectly crafted *Calzone*, you can taste the care and expertise that goes into each dish. Feedback from patrons reiterates the sentiment; whether it’s the rich *tagliatelle Alfredo* or the award-winning *garlic bread*, every bite aims to evoke the essence of Italy right in the heart of Cardiff.
But it’s not just about the food; the experience at Merola's is heightened by the charming atmosphere. The restaurant embodies the lively spirit of family dining, making it an ideal spot for special occasions or a casual night out. Simon Payne, a repeat visitor, applauds it as the go-to venue for anniversaries and “date nights,” praising the atmosphere as well as the fantastic fare.
Merola's is not merely a place to eat; it’s a culinary journey that pulls at the heartstrings. Recent feedback highlighted the generosity of the portions, often regarded as great value for money, making it a favorite among those seeking hearty, delicious meals. Couples and families alike sing the praises of their outstanding service, quality food, and the sense of belonging they foster.
In short, whether you are a long-time native or a first-time visitor, Merola’s offers a slice of Italy that is hard to resist. This is more than just dining; it’s an experience that marries authenticity with warmth, making it a must-visit destination in Cardiff. Prepare your taste buds for a delightful journey, and don't be surprised if you find yourself becoming a regular!
Merola's is one of the geographically closest restaurants to me. Somehow, I had never been previous to this project, so I kept it till last. I wanted a classic restaurant vibes. I was hunting for something similar to what I experienced at an old place in London - Bar 61 in Streatham - a Spanish place with old men servers who've run the place for over 17 years. I got that. I was greeted by the waiter who immediately started calling me 'Dave'. He'd seen the booking and just went straight from David to Dave. That's a family vibe. He continued to call me that throughout the evening. He took away the formality and made me feel at home. The waitress was also wonderful, again a bit older, and full of Cardiff charm. When you asked for something, it was brought immediately. Pasta is often had as a starter in Italy, so I thought if I had a Lasagna starter, I could have a pizza main! That starter puts so many other starters i've had over the years to shame. It's a mini lasagna, a really damn tasty mini lasagna. You'd of course hope for this, given the fact they've had 40 years to perfect their tomato sauces! I opted for the Calzone instead of pizza, simply because it's been over 8 years since I'd had a Calzone. It was huge. Absolutely stuffed, and delicious. In hindsight, I shouldn't have ordered the spinach and ham one as it was a bit wet. I'll go back and try others, and of course a normal pizza. Ice cream was simple but a generous portion. It's hard to believe how different the vibes are to Merola's neighbouring restaurant - Matsudai Ramen. Merola's felt like a place local families have been coming for generations. Overall it was reasonably priced and tasty. The highlight for me is the service. I enjoyed the confidence and cheekiness of the waiter. I feel as though his style and approach is of his generation, and I'm happy that I've found somewhere in Cardiff that's comparable with one of my favourite 'classic' restaurants. I did observe the waitress sit down to discuss steak options with a family after she told them the steak they wanted was sold out. I enjoyed watching that interaction. Absolute personability. First Class. Don't underestimate how much a server adds/takes away from an experience of eating out.
I ordered the different dishes of starters, the portion was great value for money. Everything so testy and a good service. I enjoyed it very much. Will definitely be back again soon.
Been here several times now never had a bad meal , service, atmosphere, food and wine awesome keep it up you wonderful people , can’t wait to get back there
First time I've been here and won't be the last . A hidden gem of a family orientated Italian restaurant in grangetown Cardiff. The food was stunning . Tried the tagitelle Alfredo . One thing I'd advise you is to try their garlic bread, best I've ever tasted . The staff and management are so helpful and friendly . Deffinetly 10/10 from me . Try it you won't be disappointed 2nd visit on 19/3/2022 was just as good . Service was top notch. Food was amazing . Went for the meatballs with pasta in a arrabiatta sauce . With garlic bread and cauliflower in batter . Beautiful. If it's a small piece of Italy in Cardiff your after this is the place . Our 3rd visit on the 25-3-23 was just as memorable, went for the pollo alla crema . Huge breast of chicken in a white wine, cream and mushroom sauce with chipolata potatoes, onion rings, side salad and their award winning garlic bread . Massive praise to the owners who are the chef and waiting staff . Put it on your to do list
Excellent service, amazing food and lovely people. The pasta is for 12 but the quantity is huge. I had a really good time here. Well deserved 5 stars
Phoned late in the week and they were so kind fitting us in,it was for a 60th birthday,food was amazing as always,staff make you feel so welcome,only complaint is you can only give 5 stars I would give 100
First class, Italian. Out of the whole of South Wales. This is where we come for special occasions, ‘date night’ ‘anniversaries’ atmosphere .Fantastic stuff / owners. A true Italian family restaurant. Six stars is more correct evaluation for the food.
Been going here since a child and it’s the best Italian around by far. Spiro and his wife Ange are angels down to earth... Nick the chef is outstanding always loved this place boobs take while you can as it’s always busy and that’s a good sign... Reading some of the bad reviews just sounds like Karen and Kevin’s to be honest Love this place