Mermaid Quay is the essence of Cardiff’s vibrant, captivating waterfront. Overlooking the bay (five minutes from Cardiff city centre), it boasts a chic, cosmopolitan atmosphere. This is where busy city-goers come to unwind. It’s perfect for relaxing, partying or splashing out on retail therapy, and a wealth of restaurants, cafés and bars means there’s something for everyone. Stylish and unusual boutiques offer hot fashions, fabulous gifts, fine foods and even an award-winning hair salon and spa – life really is better by the water.

Top UK brands – including Côte, Las Iguanas, Wagamama, Strada, Café Rouge, Pizza Express, GBK, Cosmo and Nandos provide menus from around the globe. Plus there are independent restaurants such as Bayside Brasserie, GARCON!, Signor Valentino, Demiro’s, Bellini’s, Bosphorus Turkish Restaurant, Pearl of the Orient and BA Orient. Mimosa Kitchen and Bar is great for locally sourced food and Eddie’s Diner for a diner-style experience. Reopening in Spring 2012, visit Cadwalader’s Ice Cream Café for pure indulgence.

Take a pit-stop at Starbucks and Costa or see what Coffee Mania or Herb & Ellie’s have to offer. Subway and Domino’s Pizza are great for food on the go and Salt or Terra Nova are perfect for grabbing a drink. The VIP Lounge offers a generous helping of glamour, while if it is laughs you’re after the Glee Club is one of the UK’s top stand-up venues.

Fashionistas will love Zia and Divine, as well as gifts from Polka Dot, treats from Fabulous Welshcakes and designer eyewear at Blink Optometrists. Indulge in a Ken Picton makeover, art from Castle Galleries, or a luxury home from Taylors Estate Agents. Practical as well as fun, Mermaid Quay also boasts banks, a supermarket and a dentist.

With the Wales Millennium Centre opposite, and Techniquest near by, there is always something going on. Look out for The International Food & Drink Festival (July) and the Harbour Festival in August. For details of all the outlets, news, events, special offers and competitions at Mermaid Quay, visit www.mermaidquay.co.uk