Lisvane and Llanishen Reservoirs, Victorian landmarks covering 110 acres in Cardiff, have launched an evening dining experience called Friday Night at the Res, held on selected Fridays. The two-course menu costs £30 and the three-course menu £40, offering seasonal dishes such as French onion soup, coq au vin, and sea bass, with drinks including wine, Welsh gin, and cocktails sold separately.
Setting and Background
Opened in 2023 after a substantial revamp, the site now includes an activity hub for water-based activities like open-water swimming, canoeing, paddleboarding, and sailing, as well as circular paths, nature trails, bird hides, and an outdoor classroom with a Welsh roundhouse built as part of a training project with NEETs and refugees. The first-floor cafe, with floor-to-ceiling windows and a balcony, previously only served breakfast and lunch, but now opens for evening dining.
Dining Experience
Portia Jones, a senior journalist, visited with a friend and praised the affordable pricing, noting that a recent breakfast of two coffees and two rolls cost nearly £25. Starters included French onion soup with caramelised onions and melted cheese, and goat's cheese with sundried tomatoes on toasted bread. Mains featured sea bass with crisp skin and delicate flesh, and coq au vin with a wine-forward sauce, creamy mash, and asparagus. Both opted for crème brûlée dessert, which had a satisfying caramelised top and silky vanilla custard.
Impact and Recommendations
Jones described the experience as one of Cardiff's more enjoyable dinner experiences, highlighting the lakeside setting, tasty plates, and sensible pricing. She expressed a desire for more cocktail options, such as a negroni, but appreciated the limited bar for logistical reasons. The evening dining is recommended for those seeking a unique dinner destination away from the city centre.
