Wagamama’s fresh menu launch on October 2nd embraces their ‘no one way to wagamama’ philosophy, celebrating the versatility and diversity of Asian-inspired cuisine.
The new lineup combines comforting classics, shareable dishes, and exciting international collaborations, making it a standout choice for Cardiff diners. On a Monday night, we found ourselves at Wagamama on Mill Lane – bustling with families and groups, despite the weekday – keen to experience the flavours for ourselves.
To start, we ordered the Hot Honey Fried Chicken, a highlight of the new menu. This dish elevates the typical fried chicken with a spicy-sweet coating of hot honey and teriyaki, topped with pickles and served with vegan mayo. The honey glaze hits with just enough heat, creating a deliciously sticky, finger-licking treat that left us wanting more. At £8, it’s perfectly shareable, but the combination of flavours and tenderness makes it tempting to order a portion just for yourself. We agreed that this would make a fabulous main if paired with coconut or sticky rice.
Next came the Crispy Duck Saku Saku Soba. This hearty bowl of soba noodles came coated in the signature sweet amai sauce, paired with crispy shredded duck, egg, beansprouts, leek, spring onions, chilli, and a kick of spicy teriyaki. At £19, it was a generous portion, offering plenty of texture with each bite. The crispy duck was well-seasoned and nicely complemented by the thick noodles and sweet, savoury sauce. However, after the intense flavours of the hot honey chicken, we felt that the soba could have benefited from an extra touch of spice to balance the sweetness.
The real star of the evening, however, was the Crispy Chicken Sambal Fry. Created in collaboration with Indonesian chef Rahel Stephanie, known as Spoons, this dish brought an explosion of textures and tastes to the table. The dish starts with lightly battered chicken, dusted with garlic and red pepper powder for a subtle heat, accompanied by a side of mild tomato sambal and a vibrant pickled slaw. Served with a bowl of fragrant coconut rice and a turmeric-stained egg, this dish delighted us with its balance of flavour and freshness. Each element brought a unique taste – the tangy slaw, the warmth of the sambal, and the coconut rice’s hint of sweetness. As our waitress noted, each “corner” of the dish had its own distinct flavour profile, making every bite feel like a new experience. This dish is worth every penny of its £15 price.
Our waitress was extremely helpful, providing all the knowledge and insight we needed to choose the perfect dishes for us and their accompanying sauces.
The new menu also offers a noteworthy drinks selection, responding to the increasing trend for unique cocktails and craft drinks. On offer is the ‘Breakfast in Tokyo’, a cocktail that pairs papaya gin with blood orange and yuzu sherbet, topped with organic prosecco. It boasts flavours that are both refreshing and zesty, perfect to balance the rich flavours of our food. The Spicy Mary also made an appearance – Wagamama’s twist on the Bloody Mary with Haku vodka, tomato juice, soy, teriyaki, and spices, creating a deliciously umami-rich cocktail. Wagamama’s addition of orange wine, a bolder, robust wine with a delicate orange hue, was a refreshing surprise and pairs perfectly with the sambal fry.
Beyond the food, Wagamama has also introduced a new loyalty programme called the Soul Club, designed to make each visit more rewarding. Members can redeem free menu items, engage with brand ambassadors like Rahel Stephanie, Alfie Cooks, and GK Barry, and access exclusive content. It’s a fun, value-added experience that keeps regulars engaged and adds a sense of community around the brand.
Overall, Wagamama’s Cardiff branch proved to be a vibrant, cosy spot to explore this new menu. The restaurant was buzzing with energy, and even though bench seating isn’t the most comfortable for everyone, the warm, open atmosphere created a welcoming space to savour Wagamama’s diverse offerings. With the evenings getting colder, Wagamama’s new menu and friendly vibe make it a perfect place for autumn gatherings.
Visit the Cardiff restaurant at 14 Mill Lane, Cardiff CF10 1EX, or check out their website to dive into the flavours of Wagamama’s latest menu.
