🍴 Places to eat Caerleon & Ponthir: A Food Lover’s Guide

Ponthir House Inn (Caerleon Road, Ponthir)

The Ponthir Inn is a beloved village pub that combines traditional charm with modern pub dining. The Ponthir Inn serves classic pub food, local ales, and seasonal specials, all in a cosy, welcoming environment. With regular events, a sunny beer garden, and a dog-friendly policy, it's a hub for the local community and a delightful stop for visitors seeking a relaxed, friendly vibe.

📍 Barney’s Café (Star Trading Estate, Ponthir)

Barney’s Café, a beloved community hub, is a cosy and casual spot offering hearty cooked breakfasts, burgers, sandwiches, and hot drinks—all served until early afternoon on weekdays. Their menu includes the popular "Barney’s Big Breakfast" featuring sausage, bacon, eggs, black pudding, mushrooms, beans, hash browns, and fried bread. Known for its friendly service, generous portions, and fresh, locally sourced ingredients, it’s a go-to for locals and tradespeople alike. It’s also praised for its welcoming vibe and commitment to excellent value.

Yema Pan‑Asian (Cross Street, Caerleon)

Yema is a sleek, modern restaurant offering a fusion of Japanese, Thai, and wider Asian cuisines. Expect standout dishes like tempura prawns and teriyaki salmon, as well as curated tasting menus that take guests on a flavourful journey throughout Asia. The setting is stylish and contemporary, perfect for a relaxed dinner or special occasion.

The Priory Hotel & Restaurant (High Street, Caerleon)

Set in a former monastery dating back to the 12th century, The Priory combines historical charm with Mediterranean-inspired cuisine. Known for its grilled meats, tapas-style dishes, and carefully selected wines, it’s a favourite for Sunday lunches, date nights, and special celebrations. For place to eat, Caerleon, The Priory offers a tranquil courtyard, and atmospheric interiors add to the experience.

Los Reyes Tapas & Wine Bar (Belmont Hill, Caerleon)

Los Reyes is a vibrant, Spanish-style tapas bar offering generous sharing plates, from classic patatas bravas to garlic prawns and rich meat dishes. Complemented by a fine wine list and relaxed ambiance, it’s an ideal spot for long, lazy dinners with friends or a casual glass of Rioja and small plates.

The Snug Restaurant & Wood-Fired Pizzeria (High Street, Caerleon)

A true local favourite, The Snug serves all-day breakfasts, light lunches, and, on Friday and Saturday evenings, freshly made wood-fired pizzas. Their Sunday roasts are also highly regarded. The space has a homey, artsy vibe and is often paired with exhibitions from local artists. The space is perfect for hosting families or enjoying leisurely weekend meals.

The Ship Inn (New Road, Caerleon)

Located right by the River Usk, The Ship Inn offers a beautiful setting for lunch or dinner. The menu features pub classics, grills, vegetarian options, and hearty Sunday roasts. It’s family-friendly, with a beer garden and children’s play area, and popular among locals for its scenic views and approachable menu.

Hanbury Arms (Uskside, Caerleon)

One of Caerleon’s most historic venues, The Hanbury Arms is a 13th-century riverside pub known for its traditional ales, pub classics, and live music during festivals. Whether you’re stopping for a drink in the garden or a full Sunday roast, the ambiance is rich with heritage and local charm.

Red Fort Caerleon (Cross Street)

Red Fort is a multi-award-winning Indian restaurant offering an extensive menu of authentic curries, tandoori specials, and chef’s creations. With a strong reputation for quality and flavour, it’s consistently rated among the best Indian dining spots in the area. Great for dine-in or takeaway.

The Green Coffee Lounge & Restaurant (Goldcroft Common, Caerleon)

Bright and modern, The Green is a coffee lounge and casual dining restaurant offering vegan-friendly options, all-day breakfasts, and occasional weekend evening dinners. It’s known for its clean, welcoming space and quality service, making it a great place to relax with friends or work remotely over coffee.

Ye Olde Bull Inn (Caerleon)

A charming 15th-century pub full of rustic character, Ye Olde Bull Inn, serves traditional pub meals and real ales and has a cosy, classic ambience. A good place for a relaxed pint and a hearty lunch in a historic setting.

The Village Bakery & Café (Caerleon)

An artisan bakery and café loved by locals, offering fresh-baked bread, pastries, cakes, and comforting breakfast and lunch dishes. It's a welcoming stop for morning coffee or a casual brunch and a reliable source for high-quality, homemade baked goods.

🍽️ Quick Comparison Table

Establishment	Type	Highlights
Barney’s Café	Breakfast café	Big breakfasts, friendly service
Ponthir Inn	Traditional pub	Classic meals, beer garden, local ales
Yema	Pan-Asian	Sushi, curry bowls, modern décor
The Priory	Mediterranean Grill	Historic location, fine dining
Los Reyes	Spanish Tapas	Tapas, wine, lively social vibe
The Snug	Café/Pizzeria	Wood-fired pizza, Sunday roasts
The Ship Inn	Riverside pub	Scenic views, family-friendly
Hanbury Arms	Historic pub	Traditional menu, riverside garden
Red Fort	Indian Restaurant	Award-winning curries, dine-in/takeaway
The Green	Coffee Lounge	Vegan-friendly, bright atmosphere
Ye Olde Bull Inn	Coaching Inn	Rustic, traditional meals, ales
Village Bakery & Café	Bakery/Café	Artisan bakes, brunch favourites

✅ Final Thoughts

From rich cultural dishes to comforting café classics, Caerleon and Ponthir have a wide range of food options. There is something for everyone, whether you want a quick coffee or breakfast at Barney's, tapas and wine with friends at Los Reyes, or a Sunday roast with a view of the river at The Ship Inn or Hanbury Arms. Food is a big part of life in these villages, not just for eating but also for socialising. The food is tasty, welcoming, and full of both old and new ideas.