REDHANDED

Sheeny Happy People
Troy Restaurant has long been renowned as arguably the best place in Wales to enjoy middle-eastern cuisine. Don’t let the relaxed, comfortable surroundings fool you, or jump to the conclusion that it’s just like many of the student-oriented kebab houses on Cardiff ’s City Road. Far from it. This place is a mecca for anyone looking to experience top class Eastern Mediterranean food. So much so, that The Times placed Troy in their Top Five Kebab restaurants in the UK. With a wide selection of dishes, ranging from Turkish classics such as Kofte and Sis to rarer dishes like Quail through to plentiful veggie options, all prepared with the finest ingredients, and mostly cooked over an open, authentic Ocakbashi charcoal grill you’ll not be disappointed. One person who certainly wasn’t was a recent visitor – none other than Wales and Hollywood legend Michael Sheen. He loved the experience so much, Michael has promised to become a regular whenever he’s visiting Cardiff. The Times and now Michael Sheen – how impressive is that?

Troy Restaurant, 192 City Road, CF24 3JF t.029 2049 9339 www.troymezebar.com

Hole In One
Tee It Up is Cardiff ’s first indoor golf simulation centre. Pretend you’re on the pro tour and choose one of 40 championship courses from across the world. If you’re game isn’t in the best shape, book on for some lessons or, failing that, enjoy some post-game food and drink in the fully licensed bar. And keep an eye open for a floating green in the Bay over summer. If all goes to plan, you’ll be able pitch from the quayside to a pin 60 yards into the Bay, and rumour has it you may get a pleasant surprise if you sink it. Tee It Up, Havannah Street, Cardiff t.029 2048 9768 www.teeitupgolf.co.uk

And there’s more
Etc… in Penarth may be renowned for its fabulously glamorous décor, for its extravagantly flamboyant, not to mention delicious, menu and for its party atmosphere but it has few other tricks up its sleeve. One of which is a cracking Sunday Roast – which makes it perfect for Father’s Day. It’s also available for private hire. What a way to impress the boss, significant other or family and friends for an important event.

For more info: Etc… 1 Royal Buildings Stanwell Road, Penarth CF64 3EA. t. 029 2009 0060 www.etc-penarth.com

Lion trainers
No, not some dudes in top hats and red jackets brandishing whips but Sam Warburton and the squad training at the Vale Resort. You must have seen the pictures of them in the shiny new Lions training kit? Now you can get your hands on the very same British and Irish Lions training kit from Shop Rugby in Cardiff. The kit starts at £23.95 for the Singlets and includes Superlight training tees, polo shirts, Gym shorts and is completed with the Limited edition Anthem Jacket at £99.95 – could be a future collector’s item, especially if the boys pull off a rare win against the All Blacks down under.
Shop Rugby, 8 Duke Street, Cardiff CF10 1AY. t.029 2066 4466
www.shoprugby.com

Seafood, and eat it
There’s something fishy going on in Cardiff as we go to press. The finishing touches are being made to a new seafood restaurant called Seafood Shack that’s due to open soon in Cardiff ’s city centre. We’ve seen plans and it’s going to be very impressive with a restaurant, Victorian fish and chip bar and champagne and oyster bar all on site. Inspired by similarly themed American restaurants along the west and east coast, in addition to freshly caught seafood dishes - including fresh oysters, scallops, prawns, clams, mussels and langoustines – the menu will include steaks, home-made burgers, cocktails, craft ales and much more.
Seafood Shack, 5A High St, Cardiff CF10 1AW

Fire, fire!
Nice to see a new, more family oriented festival emerge on Wales’ music scene – if you’re not big on folk your choices have been limited in recent years. Now, however, there’s Burning Lantern on 12th August at St Fagans National History Museum, Cardiff. With the likes of Tom O’Dell, Jack Savoretti, The Shires and Martha and the Vandellas plus a host of other activities, from pony trekking to a vintage fair, to keep you and your kin busy. Sorted.

www.burninglantern.com for info and tickets.