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Wales Online
Wales Online
Lifestyle
David Prince

The disappeared Swansea cafés and restaurants we miss the most

We asked you to name Swansea's most missed cafés and restaurants - and you didn't hold back!

You gave us loads of answers, with some places getting multiple mentions.

So, if you fancy breakfast or maybe just a frothy coffee and a cheese toastie, then this list will make you smile! You can get more Swansea news and other story updates straight to your inbox by subscribing to our newsletters here.

Read More: 'Grown men' in tears at the closure of 'Twin Town' Swansea cafe after more than 60 years of serving

Espresso Bar

The Espresso Bar, which closed in 2019, was mentioned the most.

One fan said: "It made the film Twin Town famous and as a cafe was an institution, loved it."

Another raved about its great breakfast at a great price and how it was full of Swansea character and run by a fabulous Italian lady.

Wimpy

The Wimpy in The Kingsway, Swansea (South Wales Evening Post archives)

There were a couple of Wimpy restaurants in Swansea, with one in The Kingsway and another in Parc Tawe.

One reader gushed: "For me, I miss Wimpy. It brings back so many childhood memories. Especially the birthday parties." You can read more stories about Swansea here.

Nothing quite like a game of bowling at the old Megabowl followed by a Wimpy at Parc Tawe in Swansea (South Wales Evening Post archives)

Rendevous


Rendevous, Mediterranean restaurant in The St David's Shopping Centre, Swansea (Mirrorpix)

Of the Mediterranean restaurant, one reader said: "Good food and excellent prices. Their lunchtime special - two courses for about £6 - was hands down the best value meal you could get, and it was delicious!"

Milkmaid

The Milkmaid (South Wales Evening Post archive)

The Milkmaid opened in The Kingsway in 1958.

The milk bar was popular with adults and young people alike and featured dairy images on its wall.

Burger Master

Mr Ian Swain of Swansea collects his meal from Beverly Schane at the Burger Master - December, 1987 (Mirrorpix)

Drivers got their first taste of American-style meals when South Wales' first drive-in restaurant, the Burger Master, opened its doors on December 7, 1987.

The concept was quickly rolled out all around south Wales when several McDonald's drive-thrus opened over the next few years.

Café Mambo

Cafe Mambo in Swansea - July, 1998 (Mirrorpix)

Café Mambo opened in early 2000 and was refurbished at a cost of £110,000, with a full on-licence. It was open all day serving meals, snacks, cocktails and an extensive range of coffees.

It was the place to go to meet up with everyone before hitting the clubs.

Cafe Mambo, in Swansea, circa July, 1998 (Mirrorpix)

Other honourable mentions included the Uplands Diner and the Union Cafe.

One thing is for sure - while we miss these amazing establishments, they will always live on forever in our hearts and memories of full bellies!

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Places to eat near where you live:

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