Where to Eat in Swansea: Waterfront Restaurants
Wondering where to eat in Swansea? Well, the good news is that you won’t be going hungry. From local inns to Italian restaurants and even a converted seaside horsebox, these waterfront restaurants in Swansea Bay serve up some stunning scenery alongside their delicious meals. Head in for a cup of coffee after a sea swim, a refreshing post-hike drink, or a scrumptious evening meal.
Waterfront restaurants in Swansea
The River House
The River House has a lively bar and restaurant in the SA1 waterfront development, giving you scenic views across the river. Pop in for a delicious Sunday roast and people watch the comings and goings in the harbour, or grab a drink in the cocktail bar and terrace area where you can overlook the marina.
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Seasonal menus are produced using fresh local ingredients, and there’s a fixed price menu option from Monday to Friday 12 – 5 pm or Saturday 12 – 4 pm. This is a great choice if you’re on the hunt for a more budget-friendly – but still delicious – dining option. They also have six individual apartments located within The Ice House too, if you’re after accommodation for a weekend break.
Gower Seafood Hut
No, it’s not technically a Swansea Bay restaurant, but you can rest assured that this little horsebox serves up some delicious food.
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Gower Seafood Hut offers stunning views across the bay and serves up seafood alongside some unique local produce. Menu items are constantly changing as the fish is so fresh, but will tend to include dishes like whitebait, calamari, crispy chilli prawns, and cold options like dressed crab or cockles.
The Mermaid Café, Bar & Restaurant
The Mermaid Café, Bar & Restaurant has a dog-friendly area – perfect for when you’ve returned with a four-legged friend from a long hike and are ravenous for a good meal. There’s also a children’s menu to add to their a la carte menu – and the lunch set menu is pretty yummy, too.
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This Swansea Bay restaurant was a finalist for The 2018 Food Awards Wales, so you know you’re in for a good meal, and the menu is diverse but unpretentious – you’ll be sure to find plenty of fresh fish here.
West Cross Inn
It’s hard to find more scenic views across the bay than those you’ll find at the West Cross Inn, which has long been listed amongst the best Swansea waterfront restaurants for this very reason. Stop in at the beer garden for a refreshing drink – particularly if you’re walking the path between the Mumbles and Swansea itself – or head in for a delicious meal.
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Their Sunday lunch is always of a great standard, and there’s fresh food made daily from a delightful menu. Plus, if you have a sweet tooth, don’t forget to try their excellent homemade cheesecake!
Langland’s Brasserie
Langland’s Brasserie has been crowned with a Travellers’ Choice 2021 award from TripAdvisor, so you can rest assured that you’re dining at one of the best Swansea Bay restaurants.
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You’ll find local produce made into a variety of great dishes at this beachfront restaurant. Drink a glass of delicious wine on the terrace and admire the sunset, or share a seafood platter with friends. There’s also a breakfast menu for early birds.
The Secret Beach Bar & Kitchen
The secret’s out and The Secret Beach Bar & Kitchen is definitely one to add to your list of places to eat in Swansea.
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You’ll have views across the beach as you enjoy meals that are freshly prepared by talented chefs combining British and Welsh cuisine. Dogs are welcome and there’s a breakfast, day, evening, and kid’s menu depending on when you plan your visit.
Diablo’s
Another restaurant on the SA1 development, Diablo’s serves up small plates of British cuisine.
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On Saturdays, they host a barbecue on the patio (weather permitting), from which you can relax and survey the water, and takeaway food is available from Tuesday to Friday. For fuss-free food with a side of live music, head to Diablo’s.
Castellamare Restaurant
Popular with families and fans of Italian cooking, Castellamare is both a restaurant and café bar. The latter has around 140 seats inside and 200 outside, so is perfect for a post-hike drink in the sun, and has a menu that most kids will be happy to eat, including pizzas and fish and chips.
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The café bar can’t be booked, whereas the restaurant takes 120 for an a la carte menu. There’s also an outdoor seating area for the restaurant, if you want to enjoy a post-dinner aperitif and watch the sunset.
The Bay View
Try a taste of authentic Thai food at The Bay View and look out to Mumbles lighthouse.
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The food is consistently excellent and you can often find nifty deals if you’re looking to save on spending – think ‘three starters for a tenner’ and more! Service is also excellent and you can even enjoy some of their Corona on tap with your meal. Want to make a night of it? You should definitely give one of their yummy cocktails a try!
Grape & Olive Swansea
Modern cuisine and contemporary style combine at the Grape and Olive Swansea, which is another restaurant in the SA1 development.
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You’ll get great views across Swansea Bay and the marina here thanks to the restaurant’s location on the top floors of the Meridian Tower. Food is classic but unfussy, and you’ll find fish a-plenty.
The Oxwich Bay Hotel
Though technically not in Swansea, we thought we’d sneak The Oxwich Bay Hotel into this list nonetheless as it’s a waterfront restaurant that’s been delighting visitors for years.
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Located at Oxwich Bay, one of Gower Peninsula’s best beaches, this popular eatery is just a 30-minute drive from Swansea. You’ll find a terraced garden where you can enjoy afternoon tea with friends, or you may prefer to explore their seasonal a la carte menu. Head here for a filling meal after a long day splashing in the sea, walking local trails, or wildlife spotting.
Looking for things to do in the area during your trip? Discover Swansea’s best family attractions and nearby golf courses on our blog. Or explore more places to eat in Wales in our food and drink section to find your ideal restaurant!
Nick, your trusted guide to Wales travel and exploration, shares a deep passion for this enchanting land. With years of exploration, Nick offers expert insights into the best of Wales. Join him on a journey through its captivating history, culture, and hidden gems, as he inspires you to create unforgettable Wales travel experiences.
