The restaurant will reopen as Thomas The Brasserie, which the Pembrokeshire-born chef says reflects new dining trends in Cardiff.
While the restaurant will remain at its home in Pontcanna, diners can expect a new food offer that will include a fixed menu alongside daily specials that celebrate the best of the season. The menu will continue Simmons’ commitment to premium local produce and seasonal ingredients.
It will serve fixed-day specials such as fish and chips on a Friday and a classic Sunday roast.
“We are so proud of what we have achieved in the last six years at Thomas, but we feel ready for a new chapter,” says Simmons, who ran popular restaurant Tom Simmons, Tower Bridge in London before returning to Wales
“This is a reinvention on our original concept, as I’ve noticed that diners are looking for good, honest food without the high prices. We love being part of the Pontcanna neighbourhood and we’re hopeful The Brasserie will be a go-to for everyone who wants to enjoy good local food at reasonable prices.
“I want everyone to be able to enjoy what we create, without compromising on quality. Our goal at The Brasserie is to make exceptional food accessible to the local community, without ever sacrificing standards,” Tom added.
As well as The Brasserie, which will open on 12 January, Simmons is launching Lofft - an intimate chef’s table dining experience with customers able to watch and taste dishes being made first-hand.
Lofft will be located upstairs at The Brasserie and will launch on 14 February. It will be open on Wednesdays and Thursdays for lunch and Fridays and Saturdays for lunch and dinner and be headed up by Adam Day, general manager of Thomas by Tom Simmons, and Tom Peters, executive chef, formerly of Maaemo and Roux at Parliament Square.
Last month Simmons also revealed details of what he says will be his biggest project to date. Called Park House and overlooking Cardiff City Hall and the National Museum Cardiff, his new venue will comprise an all-day brasserie on the first floor, an events space on the ground floor and a late-night wine and cocktail bar called Paper Plane in the cellar.
