It’s that magical time of year again: Christmas lights aglow, cosily dark nights, and restaurants enticing us with seasonal delights. This year, Alice and I were invited to The Botanist Cardiff to sample their much-anticipated Christmas menu. Spoiler alert: it did not disappoint.
First Impressions
From the moment you step inside, it’s clear that The Botanist has fully embraced the holiday spirit. The space has been transformed into a festive wonderland, adorned with larger-than-life Christmas trees, velvet red bows, and photo-worthy wreaths. Perfect for an Instagram-worthy backdrop, the décor sets the scene for a magical escape from the bustling streets below.
A Festive Welcome
Upon arrival, we were greeted warmly and shown to our table, complete with Christmas crackers and playful “scratch-to-win” baubles—an engaging touch that rewards diners with redeemable prizes in the new year. Then the festive feast began.
Sharing Starters to Begin
The meal kicked off with a fantastic idea that allows you to taste a bit of everything, ideal for indecisive foodies like us. The platter included:
- Pigs in blankets with a cranberry glaze
- Korean fried chicken with Sriracha mayo
- Baked Camembert with spiced red onion marmalade and toasted sourdough
- Houmous with spiced, roasted chickpeas and warm pitta bread
As fans of the Korean fried chicken, we cheekily requested a double portion in place of the Camembert (not advised during pregnancy). The staff were more than happy to accommodate, showcasing their attentiveness. Each item brought rich, hearty flavours that set the tone for the indulgence to follow.
Signature Mains with a Festive Twist
The Botanist’s famous hanging kebabs receive a festive makeover on the Christmas menu (starting at £26.95 per person). Imagine skewers laden with orange and cranberry glazed turkey, ham, stuffing balls, and pigs-in-blankets, accompanied by traditional sides like roast potatoes, parsnips, sprouts, and carrots—all brought together with a jug of rich, pour-over gravy.
Another highlight was the Festive Pie—a comforting mushroom bourguignon encased in buttery pastry and served with maple-glazed vegetables and vegan gravy. Its aroma alone was enough to warm up a rainy Welsh evening.
Though we didn’t try it, the Dirty Turkey Burger also sounded indulgent, featuring cranberry-marinated turkey, a Camembert fritter, crispy bacon, and festive chutney—topped off with a giant pig-in-blanket!
Families are also catered for, with a children’s menu priced at £7.95 for three courses. From houmous and cucumber pots to the always-popular sausage and mash with its own gravy pot, little ones are sure to feel grown-up and satisfied.
Sweet Treats and Show-Stopping Desserts
Desserts at The Botanist are all about indulgence. We shared the Chocolate Orange Cookie Dough, a decadent creation topped with mini mince pies, honeycomb, coconut ice cream snowmen, and a drizzle of Cointreau chocolate orange sauce. It’s perfect for two (if you’re feeling generous)!
Other options, like the Sticky Toffee Pudding and Vegan Vanilla Cheesecake, cater to a variety of preferences, rounding off the meal with festive flair.
The children’s dessert menu is equally delightful, with choices like Banana Split, Warm Chocolate Brownie, or a simple Ice Cream Bowl included in the set price
Festive Cocktails
No holiday celebration is complete without a seasonal drink, and The Botanist delivers with its creative festive cocktails. The Blooming Bauble, served in an actual Christmas bauble, combines pink gin, elderflower liqueur, cranberry juice, and lemon for a bright, refreshing sip. If you’re celebrating in a group, ordering six or more means they’re served on a delightful mini Christmas tree! Other standouts include the S’mores Old Fashioned and the bubbly Festive Sparkler, ensuring a drink to suit every palate.
Live Music and Atmosphere
Adding to the festive cheer, live music fills the air every Friday and Saturday night. The talented performer on our visit even played our wedding’s first dance song, a touching and memorable moment that added to the night’s charm.
Final Thoughts
The Botanist Cardiff has gone above and beyond this Christmas, crafting a dining experience as magical as the season itself. With its inventive dishes, dazzling décor, and lively atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot for festive gatherings, whether with friends, family, or colleagues.
The Christmas menu is available from 20th November to Christmas Eve, so don’t miss your chance to indulge. For more information and to book your table, visit The Botanist Cardiff—it’s a holiday treat you’ll cherish.
