Top 10 Cardiff spots that shut down in 2025

Cardiff has experienced the loss of several beloved local businesses in 2025, marking a challenging year for the city's hospitality sector. Among those that have closed are The Grazing Shed, a long-standing burger spot in the city centre, Pieminister, known for its hearty pies, and Pitch Bar on Mill Lane. These closures highlight the difficulties faced by independent businesses, particularly during the traditionally tough months of January and February.

Supporting local businesses is more important than ever, and there are still many great places to visit in Cardiff. For instance, Bar 44 has reintroduced its 2002 pricing as part of its New Year sale, offering a nostalgic throwback to earlier days. In addition to these closures, 2025 also saw the opening of several new restaurants and venues that are worth exploring.

Michelin-Loved Welsh Restaurants with Reduced Prices

Several Michelin-loved Welsh restaurants have reduced their menu prices for January, making it an excellent time to enjoy high-quality dining. One such establishment, Fancy Cardiff Restaurant, has been slashing prices for the month, offering a unique opportunity for locals and visitors alike to experience its culinary offerings at a more affordable rate.

Notable Closures in 2025

1. The Grazing Shed
   The Grazing Shed operated in the city centre for 11 years, becoming a staple for burger lovers. It served a variety of chicken and beef burgers, fries, sides, and sodas. The closure announcement stated: "It’s with a heavy heart that we must announce the closure of our Barrack Lane site." The venue will close on January 26, 2025, but the team plans to continue serving burgers at festivals and events.

2. Twenty Six
   This popular café and bar in Canton's The Boneyard site closed after two years of operation. Owner Helen Gorman expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to support other independent businesses and wished the next occupant the best of luck.

3. Pitch Bar & Eatery
   Owners of Pitch Bar & Eatery on Mill Lane confirmed the closure due to financial challenges, including rising National Insurance costs and difficulty securing a new lease. The venue, which opened in 2015, was known for its innovative food and cocktails.

4. Jackson's
   Jackson's, an oyster and seafood bar, closed its doors by early 2025. The story behind the business and its sister restaurant, Cora, can be explored further.

5. Steak of the Art
   Located on Churchill Way, this steak restaurant combined fine dining with an art gallery. It entered insolvency in April 2025.

6. La Pantera
   La Pantera, a Mexican cantina and mezcal bar, closed after more than five years in operation. Its lease on Quay Street ended, prompting the decision to move on.

7. The New Moon
   The New Moon in Womanby Street, formerly known as The Moon, closed in October. The closure followed just eight months after the venue reopened with a grant from Cardiff Council.

8. Pieminister
   
   The popular pie restaurant in Cardiff city centre has closed after its owner went into administration. Pieminister, which had been on St Mary Street for over a decade, was a well-known fixture in the area.

9. Sticky Fingers
   Based on Richmond Road, Sticky Fingers was a bar and street food venue that hosted some of Wales' best vendors. It closed on December 21, citing the pressures of the hospitality industry.

10. The North Star
    The much-loved independent community pub announced its closure after New Year's Eve 2025. Rising costs and cost-of-living pressures forced the decision, described as "unavoidable" by owner Tom Edwards.

These closures reflect the ongoing challenges faced by the hospitality industry in Cardiff. However, there are still many exciting new places to explore, and supporting local businesses remains crucial for the city's vibrant food and drink scene.