Acclaimed chef and award-winning talent Tom Simmons has unveiled a major reinvention for his beloved Cardiff restaurant. The space formerly known as Thomas by Tom Simmons in Pontcanna will relaunch in January 2026 with a fresh name, new look and an exciting concept designed to reflect modern dining trends.
The venue will reopen its doors as Thomas The Brasserie, marking the next natural evolution of Tom’s acclaimed culinary journey in the Welsh capital. While it remains in its familiar Pontcanna home, diners can look forward to a completely new menu and a refreshed, vibrant atmosphere that embodies Tom’s vision for the future: relaxed, welcoming and high-quality food without the fuss.
The concept for The Brasserie is simple but powerful: blending the warmth of a true neighbourhood restaurant with the polish and exquisite standards of Tom’s signature cooking. It’s a combination of comfort, quality and creativity.
Crucially, the new venture will be open seven days a week for both lunch and dinner. The menu will feature a fixed selection alongside daily specials that truly celebrate the best of the season. It continues Tom’s unwavering commitment to using premium local produce and seasonal ingredients.
Pembrokeshire-born Tom, who ran the popular Tom Simmons, Tower Bridge in London before returning to Wales, explained the shift: “We are so proud of what we have achieved at Thomas, but we feel ready for a new chapter. This is a reinvention that directly addresses what diners are looking for: good, honest food without the high prices.”
“Our goal at The Brasserie is to make exceptional food accessible to the local community, without ever sacrificing standards,” Tom adds. “With fixed-day specials like fish and chips on a Friday and a classic Sunday roast, the idea is that people can come and enjoy great food any day of the week, either for a celebration or just because.”
The Brasserie, which officially opens on January 12th, isn’t the only exciting launch for the team. Tom is also introducing Lofft, a stunning, intimate chef’s table dining experience located upstairs at The Brasserie.
Launching on February 14th, Lofft will allow customers to watch and taste dishes being crafted first-hand. It will be open on Wednesdays and Thursdays for lunch and Fridays and Saturdays for lunch and dinner. The experience will be headed up by Adam Day, General Manager, and Tom Peters, Executive Chef, whose impressive background includes time at renowned venues like Maaemo and Roux at Parliament Square.
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