Bigger than it looks from the outside! A huge range of new and nearly new books, plus a sale shelf. Lovely savoury and sweet food, and a wide variety of drinks. Clean, sophisticated and friendly.
Octavios is on Mount Stuart square just off Bute street. It is a funky small book cafe that also sells records and has old gaming stations. Food and drinks were well presented, I had a triple cheese toastie and an americano. Service was good and prices were reasonable.
My friend, who was with me, decried the turning of what had been a good pub into a gentrified bookshop. But I liked it. Good coffee and cake, a reasonable, but not exhaustive selection of books. And this afternoon, and on the first Sunday of every month, there's live music. This was good this afternoon.
Does bookshop and cafe very well. Lovely atmosphere, very polite helpful and friendly staff. The menu is good with nice vegan options. The soups and specials seem to change regularly which is good when you want to go back again. The cafe is arranged amongst the shelves of books which is a refreshingly analogue surrounding. My 3 year old daughter loves perusing the children's literature between tasty drinks and delicious food.
My first experience of this Book Cafe and Wine Bar was outstanding, the customer service was top notch!! I felt at home as soon as i walked through the door, very lovely staff and they actually care about their customers. The coffee is excellent and so is the food. The whole concept is unique and work surprisingly well, It has a very spacious and quiet room for when you want to work or have meetings etc. They also sell a range of alcohol - perfect for a cheeky glass of wine after work!
How had I never heard of this place before?! I came to collect a book I'd ordered online and decided straight away to stay for a coffee. Friendly and helpful staff help to make this a delightful space, equally conducive to quietly getting into a recently purchased book or to striking up a conversation with a new friend at the next table. I'll definitely be returning!
How is this place not more well known?! Some of the favourite things all in one place; books, gift shop, food, drink (G&T of course) and lovely atmosphere here. When I visited,someone was having a birthday party in the lower level - such a lovely place to meet up with everyone!
Fantastic big bowls of hot soup on a winter's day. Live music by new young talents. Great company and a glass or two of wine. Just a normal Sunday afternoon in my local bookshop. Wonderful.
This is my new favourite place in Cardiff. I have long mourned the loss of Borders, where I used to spend a Sunday with a cuppa and a book browse. I can now do that again thanks to Octavo's. They have friendly staff, good food and a good variety of books.
I visited looking for a book, and although the shop is fairly small there is a good selection. The cafe looked nice, but I didn't have time to stay. The staff were friendly and I will definitely visit again.
Make a reservation
Order online
Find the best restaurant in Cardiff
An error has occurred! Please try again in a few minutes