Cardiff
Food safety registration, inspections, and compliance guidance for hospitality businesses in Cardiff. Covers the city centre, Cardiff Bay, Canton, and Roath.
Food Business Registration
Food businesses in Cardiff must register with Cardiff Council at least 28 days before opening. Wales has its own food safety enforcement approach under the Food Standards Agency Wales, and FHRS display is mandatory.
Inspection Approach
Cardiff Council operates through Shared Regulatory Services, a partnership covering Cardiff, Bridgend, and the Vale of Glamorgan. Inspections follow the Food Law Code of Practice (Wales). Cardiff's growing food scene, particularly around Cardiff Bay and the city centre, keeps the team busy. Wales was the first UK nation to make FHRS display mandatory.
Local Insights
Wales made FHRS display mandatory in November 2013 — all food businesses in Cardiff must display their rating sticker.
Cardiff Bay has a high concentration of restaurants and bars, particularly around Mermaid Quay.
Canton and Pontcanna have emerged as popular independent dining areas with diverse cuisines.
Roath's City Road is known for its international food businesses, particularly South Asian, Middle Eastern, and East Asian restaurants.
Cardiff hosts major events at the Principality Stadium, with temporary food businesses requiring separate registration.
Tips for Cardiff Businesses
Mandatory FHRS display
Unlike England, Wales requires all food businesses to display their FHRS rating. Failure to display your rating sticker is a criminal offence and can result in a fixed penalty notice. Ensure your rating is visible at the entrance to your premises.
Shared Regulatory Services
Cardiff's food safety inspections are handled by Shared Regulatory Services. This means consistency across Cardiff, Bridgend, and the Vale of Glamorgan — the same standards apply wherever you operate in the region.
City Road diversity
If you operate on or near City Road in Roath, inspectors are experienced with a wide range of international cuisines. Ensure your food safety management system is specific to your cuisine and covers all relevant hazards.
Related Resources
Explore guides, glossary terms, and regulations relevant to food businesses in Cardiff.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is FHRS display mandatory in Cardiff?
Yes. Wales made FHRS display mandatory in 2013. All food businesses in Cardiff must display their food hygiene rating sticker at the entrance to their premises. Not displaying it is a criminal offence.
How do I register a food business in Cardiff?
Register online through Cardiff Council at least 28 days before trading. Registration is free. Your registration is handled by Shared Regulatory Services, who will arrange your initial inspection.
Can I request a re-rating in Cardiff?
Yes, you can request a re-rating visit after addressing issues from a previous inspection. There is a fee for re-rating visits. Contact Shared Regulatory Services for the current fee and process.
Simplify compliance in Cardiff
Paddl makes food safety compliance simple for Cardiff businesses. Digital SFBB, HACCP plans, temperature logs, and audit-ready documentation — all in one platform built for UK hospitality.