Discover Your Aura
Located within the historic Coal Exchange Hotel in the heart of the Bay, Aura is the newest independent brasserie to join Cardiff’s dining scene. It strikes a perfect balance between heritage and contemporary design. With its close proximity to the centre of Cardiff, as well as music, theatre, and leisure attractions, Aura promises to provide an ideal setting for any occasion. The brasserie offers a variety of dining options, including lunches, brunches, pre-theatre, and an à la carte menu.
We met with Stephanie Govier from the Coal Exchange, who spoke passionately about the building and its heritage. “The Coal Exchange is one of the most iconic buildings in the world, with significant historical and cultural importance. The hotel deserves a respectful approach to its restoration, and we plan to develop this iconic site with this approach. Our goal is to sympathetically restore as much as possible, focusing on its beautiful original features. We began refurbishing and rebranding the restaurant in late summer, with a grand opening held in October 2024. Aura has been a huge success to date, we hope that people of Cardiff and beyond will visit and support our new destination brasserie, which is creating a vibrant buzz in the bay.”
Stephanie has always been passionate about interior design and recently launched her own brand, Flair Interiors. For Aura, Stephanie envisioned a space that blends intense hues, rich timber, natural stone and a contrast of textures. Her goal was to create an intimate environment that could serve multiple purposes for guests, including work zones, family gatherings, relaxed lunches, romantic candlelit date nights, and a lively bar area.
Sophie Pascoe of Studio Severn took on the design brief and commented, “With an abundance of historical charm and nods to the building’s heritage, Aura incorporates a simple contemporary luxe, adding elegance that contrasts with the exposed raw industrial features.”
An Array of Mouth-watering Offerings
Aura offers the finest selections to suit all tastes. Starters such as succulent grilled king prawns drizzled with rich roasted garlic and sun blush tomato butter, served with crusty sourdough bread. A selection of indulgent main courses such as Wild mushroom & tarragon risotto (v/ve For dessert, enjoy a winterberry trifle featuring layers of berries, rich Merlyn cream liqueur, and silky white chocolate mousse.
The focal point of Aura is the expansive brass bar, which provides the perfect spot for after-work drinks, social gatherings and party vibes. The knowledgeable and attentive bar team are enthusiastic about their signature cocktails as well as the all-time classics. This brasserie-style bar has everything that a good bar requires, from specially selected top-shelf liquor to premium beers, fine wines, and, of course showstopping mixology. It’s the new place to be for casual drinks and sumptuous soirées.
Indulgent Sunday Lunches
Since opening, Auras Sunday lunch offerings have been a roaring success. A selection of classic roast dishes in a large and busy brasserie setting. Starters, such as comforting squash soup paired with zesty lime and coriander falafel, are a perfect blend of warmth and spice. Traditional roasts with choices such as succulent chicken supreme, flavourful picanha of beef, pork belly or seasoned roasted cauliflower steaks and indulgent sides such as the signature black bomber mac and cheese and fresh seasonal greens. Auras sommelier is available to assist with wine pairings and suggestions to compliment your culinary experience. With live jazz music every Sunday, Aura is the place to see your weekend out in style.
To make a booking, head to the website.
For any larger group or semi-private dining enquiries, email:
host@aura-cxh.com
Discover more from Aura,
www.auracardiff.com
@auracardiff
Imagery – Studio Severn
Floristry – Blush Floral
