The group has taken over the site previously occupied by bar brand Gin Ne Sais Quoi on Mill Lane for what will be Banana Tree’s biggest restaurant to date with 249 covers inside and a further 38 outside.
Featuring a ‘bold interior design’ and an open-plan kitchen, the restaurant will serve Banana Tree’s signature menu, which is inspired by dishes from countries across Southeast Asia including Thailand, Singapore, Vietnam, Indonesia, and Malaysia.
“We couldn’t be more excited to open in Cardiff.,” says Tom Patrick, Banana Tree’s marketing director.
“It’s our very first site in Wales and our biggest restaurant to date right in the heart of one of the UK’s most exciting food destinations.
“Whether you’re joining us for a pre-night-out dinner, a chilled lunch or just to experience something new, we can’t wait to welcome you to the Banana Tree family.”
Banana Tree was originally founded in Maida Vale, London, more than 30 years ago.
Expansion for the brand was slow until it was acquired by Las Iguanas and Café Rouge operator The Big Table Group in 2022.
At the time the group had nine sites, but now has an estate of 21 restaurants across the UK with recent openings in locations such as Manchester, Bath and Birmingham.
Cardiff, the group’s 22nd location, will officially open on Monday 2 June with soft launch offering 50% off all meals running between 30 May and 1 June.