Places to eat in Newport

Known for its industrial heritage and Chartist connections, Newport is fast becoming a Welsh foodie mecca, fuelled by the transformation of the Grade II listed Newport Market and a flourishing restaurant and fine dining scene.

With so many places to eat, choosing where to start can be a challenge. Browse our ideas for inspiration, or jump straight to the section that appeals to you most. Whether it’s discovering the best Newport restaurants and bars, exploring foodie hotspots like Newport Market, or sampling international cuisine, here’s where to eat in Newport.

Newport is making its mark on the Welsh culinary map, driven by independent restaurants, bars and cafés showcasing the finest local produce, served with a side of warm Welsh hospitality.

For local food fanatics, the words “Gem 42” need no introduction. Based on the bridge opposite the train station, this aptly-named three AA Rosette-awarded fine dining restaurant is the most precious jewel in Newport’s culinary crown. Awarded Outstanding Restaurant of the Year in the Food Awards Wales, Gem 42 is garnering attention far beyond the city.

Run by Italian brothers, Chef Sergio and Pasquale Cinotti (who also run the popular local dessert business, Gemelli), the restaurant’s pièce de résistance lies in its “art cuisine”, with each dish presented as a sensory masterpiece.

Crafted using locally sourced artisanal produce, the daily-changing modern European tasting menu prioritises seasonality and sustainability. Opt for wine pairing or order by the glass from an endless selection of wines commended on the AA’s Notable Wine List for 2024, including Welsh wines from nearby White Castle Vineyard and The Dell Vineyard.

Nestled in the Coldra Woods just off the M4, the five-star luxury Celtic Manor Resort houses five highly acclaimed restaurants. Feast on the finest cuts of PGI Welsh Lamb and Welsh Beef at two AA Rosette-awarded Steak on Six; enjoy local Welsh produce with stunning views of the Usk Valley at Rafters; or indulge in Asian-inspired dishes at PAD, led by Chef Larkin Cen, of MasterChef (2013) and Great British Menu (2022; 2024) fame

For casual cravings, Holy Cheesus is your saviour. Just a short walk from the train station, this cheese-centric cafe dishes up Instagrammable grilled cheese toasties and loaded cheesy nachos. Try the Mac Daddy: creamy macaroni, tangy nacho sauce and melted mixed cheese. Gluten-free and vegan options are also available.

Over in Rogerstone, the award-winning Tiny Rebel Brewery Bar is a cornerstone of Newport’s craft beer scene. This cherished micro brewery serves beers and ales brewed on-site alongside hefty burgers, juicy wings, loaded fries and its much talked-about Sunday roasts. Brewery tours are also available. Cocktails more your thing? Head to trendy independent bar, BAR.CODE instead.

For a change of scenery, visit the historic town of Caerleon. Once the site of a Roman fortress and Iron Age hillfort, ruins can be seen at the National Roman Legion Museum and the Caerleon Roman Fortress Baths. History aside, this small, unassuming town is home to some of the best restaurants in Newport.

Savour a taste of Spain in a former 12th century Cistercian monastery at The Priory Hotel and Restaurant, praised for its open fire cooking and “counter concept” market-style dining inspired by the coastal regions of northern Spain. And for traditional tapas, family-run favourite, Los Reyes is your go-to.

Established in 1854 and lovingly restored in 2022, the traditional Victorian Grade II listed Newport Market offers a popular Food Court housing an eclectic variety of local street food traders.

Grab a signature birria queso taco from Mexican legends, Bab Haus Mex; munch on cheesy Welsh Beef smash burgers from Port Talbot pop-up icons, the Burger Boyz; feast on sizzling souvlaki from Greek Cypriot favourites, Meat and Greek; or satisfy your sweet tooth with a supersized donut from Who Cult, to highlight just a few options. Afterwards, browse the independent market stalls for unique souvenirs.

Love street food? Visit Newport in October to discover even more culinary delights at the annual Newport Food Festival, showcasing local food traders and artisanal produce.

Surrounded by a diverse street food and dining scene, you can travel by plate without stepping foot outside Newport. Tuck into authentic Italian food at Vittorio’s, celebrating its 30th birthday this year. Alternatively, visit Marenghi’s restaurant, coffee shop and deli just outside the city.

For more Newport foodie inspiration, follow Kacie on her blog The Rare Welsh Bit, on Instagram and on TikTok.