From the Queer Emporium to Scaredy Cats, the gay scene in Cardiff stretches far past its various clubs and pubs. The city has an amazing range of accepting and queer-friendly cafés. However, many of these venues do fly under the radar. I myself had only visited some of these places during my third year at university. So, for anyone interested in finding more chill daytime queer-friendly safe-spaces, I have compiled a short list of my personal favourites.
The Queer Emporium is probably the most well-known gay café in Cardiff. Being led and run by almost only transgender, non-binary, and intersex people, the Queer Emporium has aimed to have an inclusive space for all members of the LGBT+ community since its opening in 2021. Beyond its safe and vibrant environment, the Queer Emporium has a range of tasty food and drinks, all made locally and by LGBT+ people. Furthermore, all of its profits go towards LGBT+ community projects. By visiting, you will be supporting the greater queer community. A welcoming place for adults, teenagers, and especially students, the Queer Emporium is not to be missed.
Another great queer-friendly cafe is Scaredy Cats Café Bar. It is an independent venue in Cardiff well known locally for its abundance of board games. From Villainous to Unstable Unicorns, if board games are your forte then Scaredy Cats is a must to visit. I visited this café my first day back this year with two of my flatmates. We stayed for three hours, relaxing and drinking coffee. It is a great place to go for a long haul when looking to be entertained in town. Its incredible and fun atmosphere is extremely refreshing and greatly enjoyable.
Finally, Big Moose Coffee is one of the most accepting and queer-friendly places in Cardiff. It is a non-profit organisation holding the title of the best coffee shop in Cardiff on TripAdvisor. With affordable food and drinks, Big Moose Coffee deserves its high ranking. The coffee shop was formed as a way of honouring the owner’s father’s friend who was nicknamed “Moose”. You can feel the heart and the warmth of Big Moose Coffee as soon as you enter, with its friendly and open staff. The venue is extremely receptive to the LGBT+ community and has hosted many socials for the Cardiff University Pride Society.