Bar 44 (Penarth)

Why we love it

The second of Tom and Owen's restaurants (after Cowbridge, where 10 years of speciality Spanish culinary passion, skill and knowledge were honed), Bar 44 needs little introduction.

Set in the heart of the cosmopolitan seaside town of Penarth, Bar 44 has quickly established itself as something of a jewel in the areas foodie crown and is now synonymous with some of the best “Tapas Y Copas” in Wales. Evenings are always popular and defined by excited tables of diners eagerly picking their way through myriad exciting small plates. Lunch sittings offer a premium foodie step-change from the norm and are enthusiastically embraced by all and sundry.

Their Spanish-influenced dishes have received international attention and admiration, the whole team's knowledge of authentic ingredients is second to none and the bar staff are hugely knowledgeable about sherry too (if that's your tipple, you're guaranteed a memorable night). Think the finest jamón, the freshest fish, and a table full of tapas y copas: this is joyous food, best shared (or not!) with as many as possible.