A New Chapter for Sophia Gardens: Roos to Take Over the Former Kindle Site
There’s something new cooking in Sophia Gardens, and it looks set to give Cardiff’s food scene a fresh lift. The restaurant once known as Kindle has officially been taken over by two well-known figures from Pembrokeshire’s dining scene, and they’re bringing plenty of experience with them.
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Roos is named after the British architect Alexandre Roos, who worked on several buildings within the Bute estate, including the West Lodge in Bute Park.
The new eatery, called Roos, will be led by Josh Peniket of The Boars Head in Templeton and Daron Paish of The Golden Lion in Newport. Both pubs have strong reputations for good food and warm hospitality, so their move into Cardiff will spark some interest. The pair say they’re excited to breathe new life into the Warden’s House, keeping the spirit of the site while shaping it into something new.
Work on the building is already underway, with plans to open before the end of the year. While full details are still under wraps, the team is aiming for relaxed, quality dining with a real focus on atmosphere. They’ve built loyal followings back home through dishes that focus on good produce and honest cooking, and they’re hoping to bring the same approach to the capital.
For anyone who loved Kindle’s charm, Roos promises to keep the setting special while adding its own personality. With its leafy location, the Warden’s House has always felt like a bit of a hideaway, and the new operators want to build on that a place where people can drop in for great food without any fuss.
If the success of The Boars Head and The Golden Lion is anything to go by, Roos could become one of the city’s most talked-about new openings. More details are expected in the coming months, but for now, it’s fair to say this is one to keep on the radar.
