Set in the heart of The Meadows Wildlife Park in Groeswen, Cardiff, Willows Restaurant is a cosy countryside retreat where guests can dine surrounded by nature. This family-run eatery offers a relaxed, welcoming space for visitors of all ages, blending rustic charm with fresh, seasonal British cooking.
Willows opens daily, making it an ideal stop after a walk through the wildlife park or a standalone lunch destination. Whether you’re coming from Cardiff or spending the day with meerkats and alpacas, the restaurant provides a laid-back space to unwind and refuel.
The menu is packed with homemade favourites and quality ingredients, with options to suit a variety of dietary needs, including vegetarian and vegan diners. Signature dishes include a range of burgers such as Moroccan lamb, jerk chicken and barbecue beef, alongside a vibrant chickpea and coriander burger, served with smoky harissa and red pepper sauce. This 100% plant-based option is bursting with lime and coriander, offering a zesty, flavourful alternative to meat.
Lighter choices include seasonal summer salads, such as a classic chicken Caesar, a salmon Niçoise and a zingy tropical mix of pineapple, avocado, black beans and sweet peppers — a refreshing vegan-friendly option ideal for warmer days.
The interior is simple and comfortable, with large windows overlooking the meadows and plenty of indoor seating. Guests can also enjoy the benefit of wildlife park access, with every £20 spent in the restaurant granting free entry (terms apply). Child-friendly, wheelchair-accessible and dog-welcoming, Willows is a warm, inclusive venue offering good food in a peaceful, rural setting — just a short drive from the centre of Cardiff.