I went to the hidden underground café in Cardiff which you can’t find on Google maps

People sometimes say they wish there were more independent coffee shops around Central square in Cardiff, or say there should be more variety around the train station area. But sometimes it’s just a case of exploring new streets or wandering a little bit further to discover something you’ve never come across before. For me, recently it was Coffi Clwb, underneath Jacob’s Antiques which is nestled between the towering offices of Callaghan Square at the back of the train station.

Even after two years living in Cardiff I regularly come across hidden gems in the city that make me feel like I’m constantly re-discovering my local area. I’m a self-confessed coffee lover, and one of the first things I do when I move to a new place is look at what coffee shops show up on Google maps, but this one never showed up in a general café search, so coming across it naturally was definitely a bonus. For the latest restaurant reviews, sign up to our food and drink newsletter here Located in the same building as Jacob’s Antiques, which also has a rooftop bar and a yoga studio on one level, the whole place is pretty underrated from my perspective.



But it wasn’t until my second visit to the building itself that I spotted Coffi Clwb and went in to shield from some classic Cardiff weather one afternoon. You order your bar on the ground floor, and then can take it to the seating area downstairs, which kind of gives indie film studio vibes to some extent. The atmosphere is laid back, relaxed and a ‘proper’ coffee shop vibe.

The staff are friendly without being overbearing and make you feel like you could spend hours downstairs, enjoying some peace and quiet away from the crowds further into town. It’s also an ideal spot, being just around the corner from the train station and the perfect place to pop into before a long journey. Downstairs, it’s really spacious and has a cool, off beat feel which I think most Gen Z's and millennials would adore if they popped inside.

It’s places like this which remind you how much independents add to a city centre, or any area for that matter. And honestly, I am so over chain coffee shops which charge you ridiculous amounts of money for a hectic atmosphere. You almost forget that you’re in the middle of Cardiff as it’s so quiet down there, so it would be the perfect place to catch up with friends if you want somewhere that’s got an easy, welcoming feel.

With it being underground, there are also no windows so you really could be anywhere. They serve sustainably sourced coffee, which I can confirm tastes great. Breakfast options include overnight oats, a granola & berry pot and a selection of cakes and pastries.

They also offer a range of bagels, as well different wraps, which I am yet to try but look amazing and will definitely be checking out soon..