The Dead Canary

Tucked into Barrack Lane behind St. David's Centre, The Dead Canary lives up to its secretive reputation. Spot the golden feather outside, ring the bell, and step into a world where mythical cocktails and quiet elegance merge. Inside, the atmosphere hums with attentive intimacy—award-winning bartenders craft each drink using specially prepped ingredients from the upstairs lab. Tin ceilings, warm lighting, and plush furnishings set the scene for an evening where mixology feels like storytelling. The menu is a chapter of fabulous tales—each cocktail evokes mythology and Welsh lore. Try “The King Arthur” with aged Flor de Caña, Calvados, almond syrup, Umeshu, and Fernet Branca (~£10), or the herbal, matcha-tinged “Birds of Rhiannon” at £9. There's also the bold “Red Dragon” (£9), blending bourbon, Malbec, Cynar, Chartreuse, and spicy shrub. Mocktails, sharers, and aperitifs are equally thoughtful—aperitifs start around £4, while cocktails go up to £12; sharing bowls can reach £55. Cocktail masterclasses—gin, rum, or whiskey & beer—are offered (~£40 per person for 2 hours). The vibe flows from intimate to lively with ease—live jazz, folk, or 50s tunes fill the space, creating a cozy, curated soundtrack. Booking ahead is wise—tables only, no standing room. This is Cardiff’s best-kept cocktail secret—a bar that blends imaginative drinks, theatrical design, and genuine hospitality.