Banana Tree, the vibrant Southeast Asian restaurant brand, has just opened the doors to its biggest venue yet – and it’s landed right in the centre of Cardiff. Taking over the former Gin Ne Sais Quoi (or Carluccio’s, if you go back far enough) on Mill Lane at St David’s, the restaurant brings a fresh burst of flavour and colour to the city’s dining scene.
Spread across two floors, the space has undergone a total transformation. With banana leaf plants, bird sounds at the entrance, and Southeast Asian-inspired decor, it’s like stepping into a tropical escape. Dark mahogany-style tables, wicker light fittings, and lush greenery create a warm, bohemian tropical rainforest vibe – a world away from the street just outside.
Banana Tree is well-known for its crowd-pleasing Pad Thai, fragrant katsu dishes, their beef rendang and a vast vegan and vegetarian offering that caters to all kinds of diners. Their bold, punchy flavours are inspired by street food from Malaysia but also from areas of Thailand, Vietnam, and beyond.
Adding to the atmosphere is a dedicated bar area, ideal for laid-back cocktails, and an open hatch kitchen where you can see the chefs in action.
Whether you’re popping in for a casual lunch after a shopping trip to the city, a group night out, or a full-on Southeast Asian feast, Banana Tree offers a relaxed yet immersive setting that delivers on both taste and experience.
Opening officially on Monday 2nd June, Banana Tree will be giving away 2,000 free curries to the first guests through the door! It’s first come, first served – so get down early, if you want to bag yourself a free lunch.
Location – Mill Lane, St David’s Cardiff
