Nestled in the Maritime Quarter of Swansea Marina, The Observatory Swansea offers a unique dining experience with its rich architectural history and stunning waterfront location. Today, I met up with friends here for brunch to celebrate a friend’s new job, making it the perfect occasion to finally try out the much-talked-about café.
First Impressions
I read mixed reviews online and noticed the hygiene rating stood at 3, which made me a little hesitant. However, upon arrival, the bustling atmosphere and attentive staff reassured me. They managed the large number of patrons efficiently.
The Food Experience
For my meal, I chose the EGGS, Salmon & AVO – a generous plate featuring two poached eggs, smoked salmon, avocado, rocket, and sourdough. While the portion was undeniably large (perhaps contributing to the higher price), I felt it could have been slightly smaller and enhanced with a dressing to bring everything together. Nonetheless, the flavours worked well, and I enjoyed the dish.
My friends ordered a variety of items, from classic cooked breakfast selections to a fish finger sarnie with crushed minted peas and lemon pepper mayo. One of them even surprised us all by ordering a Negroni and an Old-Fashioned Bloody Mary—a bold move so early in the day! To my surprise, the Bloody Mary tasted well-balanced and delicious.
While we all agreed that the food was well-prepared and tasty, we couldn’t help but notice the pricing, which ranged from £10-£20 per dish. It’s fair to say that this isn’t an everyday brunch spot but rather a treat for special occasions like today.
The Venue’s Fascinating History
The building itself is an attraction. Originally known as the Marina Towers Observatory, Robin Campbell designed the structure in 1989, with partial funding from a European Heritage Grant. It once housed Wales’ largest optical astronomical telescope and served the Swansea Astronomical Society until its closure in 2009.
For me, visiting The Observatory Swansea felt particularly nostalgic. I spent time sketching this building during my college diploma and Interior Architectural degree and often sat near it during the COVID lockdowns. Getting the chance to step inside and share a meal with friends was a truly memorable experience.
Final Thoughts
Despite the somewhat steep prices and previous concerns about hygiene ratings, our experience at The Observatory Swansea was delightful. The food tasted great, the setting looked picturesque, and the building’s historical significance added an extra layer of appreciation. If you’re looking for a special brunch spot in Swansea Marina, this café is worth a visit—just be prepared to splurge a little!
⭐️⭐️⭐️☆☆ 3 out of 5
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Hygiene Rating: Food Standards Agency
The Observatory – Marine Quarter, The Slipway, Maritime Quarter, Swansea SA1 1YB
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