Romeo's By The Sea

If you ever find yourself along The Esplanade in Penarth and hear the sea breeze whispering promises of Italian delights, don’t ignore it-that’s Romeo's By The Sea calling. Perched elegantly with ocean views and a warm Mediterranean soul, this charming spot serves more than just food-it crafts experiences.

Walking into Romeo's, you’re instantly wrapped in a coastal calm that feels both elevated and unpretentious. It’s a place where locals come for laid-back lunches and returning guests stake out their favorite table for dinner with a view. The atmosphere balances cozy Italian romance with the fresh, breezy energy of a seaside eatery. Think candlelight flickering against the windows while waves break gently outside-hard not to fall in love with that.

Let’s talk food, because that’s where Romeo's truly shines. Their pasta game is solid, with the Spaghetti Cosa Nostra offering rich, umami-packed comfort in every forkful. Prefer seafood? The Seafood Linguine brings together prawns, mussels, and tender squid tossed in a garlicky, white wine-kissed sauce that actually tastes of the sea. Another standout? The Spaghetti Al Gamberi-juicy king prawns with just the right heat from chili and the sweet acidity of fresh tomatoes. It’s the kind of dish that leaves you planning your next visit before the last bite.

Appetizers here deserve their own spotlight. Start with Calamari, lightly battered and fried golden, or go all in with the Deep Fried Brie and Cranberry-a gooey, savory-sweet bite that pairs beautifully with a crisp Prosecco or a fruity local cider. Their Garlic Bread isn’t an afterthought either-it’s fragrant, generously buttered, and perfect for mopping up leftover sauces. Add a Green & Black Olive bowl and the Bread Basket to the mix for the full Mediterranean table feel.

For those craving something pizza-based, Romeo’s covers the bases. The Hawaiian Pizza and Pepperoni Pizza cater to the classics, but the Pizza Ala King Prawn (yes, that’s its charmingly casual name) is a buttery, garlicky, seafood lover’s dream. Add a drizzle of chili oil and it just sings.

What’s interesting is how Romeo’s appeals to different diners without losing its core. It’s perfect for solo foodies looking for a quick bite with a view, but also great for couples or families wanting a long, wine-filled dinner. The space is fully accessible-with a wheelchair-friendly entrance, seating, and parking-which is a thoughtful touch many establishments overlook.

Drinks? You’re in good hands. Beyond their wine list, which is refreshingly curated without being intimidating, they offer a solid range of cocktails and spirits. Whether you're sipping a crisp white to cut through your risotto or leaning into a bold red with a plate of Polpette, the pairing possibilities feel intentional.

And don’t even think about skipping dessert. The Tiramisu is a crowd favorite for a reason-light, creamy, and espresso-soaked to perfection. But if you’re more of a coffee purist, their brews are surprisingly good too, easily rivaling any local café.

Romeo’s By The Sea isn’t trying to be flashy-it’s just quietly excellent. From the attentive service to the beautifully prepared dishes and that unforgettable view, it’s a place that understands the power of good food shared in a beautiful setting. Whether you’re after a relaxed lunch, a romantic dinner, or simply a glass of wine with a side of sea air, Romeo’s feels like exactly the right choice.