My Experience at Mesen: A Hidden Gem in Cardiff Suburb

I recently tried out this amazing restaurant in a Cardiff suburb called Mesen. It’s been open for about four months now and has quickly gained the support of the local community. I have to say, going there on a weeknight when it’s dark and the traffic is dying down was the perfect time to experience their unique cooking style. They use an open charcoal fire to transform fresh local ingredients into delicious dishes that are meant to be shared.

When I arrived at Mesen, I was greeted by a sleek and simple venue on Heol-Y-Deri. The menu, written on a scroll of brown paper nailed to the wall, changes weekly to keep things interesting. The staff recommended ordering five to six dishes for two people, and let me tell you, it was a tough choice. These were not your typical small plates; they were meant for sharing and they did not disappoint.

To start off, we ordered some cocktails. I went for the culross, which was a mix of rum, lemon, and apricot, while my partner chose the Chanel no. 5, made with vodka, elderflower, raspberry, and prosecco. Both cocktails were expertly crafted and perfectly balanced.

Next, we moved on to the main event. We ordered a variety of dishes including sourdough with charcoal butter, Italian sausage with tomato and parmesan, Welsh leeks with pistachio and romesco, mackerel with cucumber, dill, and capers, and a free-range pork chop with jus. Each dish was bursting with flavor and beautifully presented.

The sourdough arrived with a quinnell of charcoal butter, giving it a smoky and smooth taste. The mackerel was expertly deboned and had a charred skin that added a nice bitterness to the dish. The leeks were seared over the fire, resulting in a soft and subtle flavor, topped with a generous crumble of pistachio. But the real stars of the show were the Italian sausage and the pork chop.

The Italian sausage was handmade and packed with fennel and seasoning, reminiscent of Tuscan sausages. It was served on a bed of concentrated tomato sauce that was absolutely delicious. As for the pork chop, it was a revelation. Juicy, tender, and full of flavor, it was the best pork chop I’ve ever had. It was served with a sticky, meaty jus and a side of salted butter.

We couldn’t resist trying the basque cheesecake for dessert. With its burnt top, smooth filling, and rich vanilla flavor, it was the perfect end to a fantastic meal.

Overall, my experience at Mesen was incredible. The food was outstanding, the atmosphere was cozy, and the staff was friendly and knowledgeable. It’s definitely a hidden gem in the Cardiff suburb of Rhiwbina. While it may not be the most convenient choice for a weeknight dinner, it’s well worth the trip. Just make sure to bring your appetite because you won’t want to leave any room for leftovers. If you’re looking for a unique dining experience in Cardiff, I highly recommend giving Mesen a try.