A grand entrance, and scones to die for. Why, City Life’s Richard and Nadya are already planning their next Parkgate afternoon tea. Richard tells us more…
We’d strolled past The Parkgate more times than we could count. Grand old building. Always looked the part. But we’d never been in. That changed last weekend – and from the moment we stepped through those huge doors, we knew this wasn’t going to be just another afternoon tea.
The lobby’s a showstopper. High ceilings, crisp lines, the kind of architecture that makes you feel underdressed in the best possible way.
First Impressions, Served with a Wink
No awkward cake stand shoved between us. The Parkgate goes for theatre – the whole spread displayed on a stand beside the table. It’s a small touch, but it means you can actually talk to each other without peering round a tower of carbs. Everything looked so good we almost felt guilty dismantling it.
The Sandwich Situation
Let’s get the one niggle out of the way – most of the sandwiches didn’t quite have the punch we’d hoped for. Not bad, just… polite. But then came the Chicken Tikka Masala with Mango Mayo. This was the sandwich that made the trip worth it. Rich, warm spice, sweet mango, a pop of roasted pepper, fresh coriander – the works. If the others had followed its lead, we’d still be talking about them now.
Scone Devotees, Rejoice
We’re big on scones. These vanilla beauties had a gentle crunch on the outside, soft within, and arrived with clotted cream and Celtic Preserves strawberry jam. Perfect. End of discussion.
The Starters You Didn’t See Coming
Before the main stand even landed, we were handed a couple of savoury starters – a quail Scotch egg and a minted pea cheese tart. Small bites, huge flavour. Frankly, they could’ve served us a tray of those and we’d have been happy.
Service, Drinks and Atmosphere
Our server was spot-on – friendly without being overbearing, walking us through every detail. Unlimited tea and coffee was a welcome surprise. Real choice, too – from flat whites and cappuccinos to fruit teas you could actually smell before picking. Nadya went for a mixed berry infusion; I stuck to coffee and didn’t regret it.
Final Word
The Parkgate is a short stroll from Cardiff’s train station, but once you’re inside, it feels like a world away. The sandwiches (minus the star player) might have been a bit subdued, but everything else – the setting, the service, the scones, those starters – were definitel five-star.
Would we recommend it?
Absolutely. Would we go back? Already planning it.
The Parkgate Hotel
Westgate Street, Cardiff CF10 1DA
029 2274 5595
parkgatehotelenquiries@celtic-collection.com
Love Afternoon Tea?
Where’s your favourite in Cardiff? Share your thoughts on Facebook at www.facebook.com/citylifecardiff
