Cioni Bistro — Restaurant in Penarth

This café, with its somewhat humble ugly and squat brick exterior is a not-so-hidden gem, spectacularly located on the western cliff tops of Penarth, overlooking the Hafren/Severn river. Whether you walk the famous clifftop path looking for the view (National Museum and Galleries, Cardiff) Sisely painted or settle down on a bench to watch the moody brown river plied incessantly by working vessels - you'll surely appreciate the warm welcome inside Cioni's. I recall years of occasional visits and each time enjoying the heart-warming Italian home cooking (or ordinary café menu food instead, if you or the little ones insist) prepared and served with love by the various family members. Although my memories of years gone by darken, and so did the decor, like many I was concerned that the place closed at the end of the autumn for refurbishment. I needn't have worried, because the younger generation of the family have taken over - the decorations at least, I presume - the inside has been stylishly simplified to open up the space, wood panels painted a bright neutral and natural sky colour and the tables and chairs all neater and smarter.. And the menu likewise has been sharpened up in presentation and content. This is a family friendly café bistro, where the key common ingredient is good ingredients brought together simply but with care and delicious Italian style sauces and herbs, from antipasti to pastas, carne e pesci and pizzas galore and the most generous ices in traditional glasses... But worth the visit just for Italian coffees and Welsh cake (I still dream of the iced custard tart) the entrancing view and the nearby child distracting play area and in summer (assuming it still runs) pitch and putt golf. There's a generous amount of free parking around the leeward sides of...

I’ve grown up coming to this place and each time I forget just had poorly run it is. If there is a lesser friendly “family restaurant” in Penarth or indeed Cardiff I’ve not yet found it. It all starts upon entry with a stern “do not read the newspapers - they are for purchase only” sign next to the counter. Then there is the menu which is ok, but you dare not request a child’s meal as there isn’t one, and heaven forbid you should ask for an extra (say) sausage to your meal that you can share with your children - the equation used to add this to your meal will ramp up your bill dramatically. The prices are already high for the small portions served, although it should be noted the food is good. In this day and age though, being charged an additional 25p for EACH condiment is out of touch for a “family restaurant”. For a restaurant with front row seats of the sea, why oh why would you have plastic straws?!?! Glastonbury can make environmentally friendly changes but Cionis can’t... or won’t. And that pretty much sums up their attitude to just about everything. Baby seats are on offer but try to take one outside for your 1 year old to enjoy the overpriced ice cream you just purchased and you’ll get told it must remain inside, with no outdoor friendly high chairs available. Feel free to use the toilets.... so long as you buy something overpriced and although this is the only place with WCs in the area, if you don’t spend a tenner, you’re not spending a penny - unfriendly once again.

As for the min. £10 card spend - what on earth?!?!

EDIT: I’ve since been told there are toilets nearby, but doesn’t detract from everything...

If you're looking for a perfect spot to enjoy your breakfast while also taking in some stunning sea views, this is the place for you. I recently had breakfast here, and I must say, it was an amazing experience.

The first thing that struck me about this place was its relaxing and comfortable atmosphere. As soon as I walked in, I felt like I was in a cozy little haven away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The decor was simple yet elegant, and the soft background music only added to the overall ambiance.

What's more, the location of this place is perfect for families with young children. Just a stone's throw away from the restaurant is a playground that's sure to keep the little ones entertained for hours on end. As a parent, I know how important it is to find places that cater to the needs of children, and this spot definitely ticks all the boxes.

But that's not all. If you're someone who loves to go for a morning jog or a leisurely walk, this area is perfect for you. The beautiful sea view from the cliff is simply breathtaking, and the cool sea breeze is a welcome respite from the heat.

In conclusion, if you're in the area and looking for a place to enjoy a relaxing breakfast with your family while also taking in some stunning sea views, you can't go wrong with this spot. With its comfortable atmosphere, nearby playground, and beautiful sea views, it's the perfect spot for a morning outing.

The warmth and kindness of the staff and owner really added to the overall experience...