Platform Street Food Cardiff Bay Traders Revealed 2026

Key Points

• Loft Co, the developers behind successful projects like Goodsheds Barry and Goodsheds Newport, have announced the full line-up of street food traders for the new Platform Street Food venue at Cardiff Bay.
• The venue will feature a diverse selection of 12 independent food traders offering a range of cuisines, including Korean fried chicken, Mexican street food, Caribbean flavours, and vegan options.
• Platform Street Food is set to open in Summer 2026 at the former site of the Coal Exchange Hotel car park in Cardiff Bay, transforming the area into a vibrant outdoor food destination.
• The project includes sustainable features such as solar panels, a living roof with wildflowers, and electric vehicle charging points.
• Traders confirmed include Heo Joe (Korean fried chicken), Señor Taco (Mexican), Jerk & Blues (Caribbean), Bahn Mi Bay (Vietnamese banh mi), and others like Pizza Gossip, Okra & Mogo, and The Frying Scotsman.
• Loft Co aims to create over 100 jobs and foster a community hub with live music, family-friendly events, and year-round accessibility.
• The announcement was made via Business News Wales, highlighting the venue’s role in Cardiff’s growing street food scene.

Cardiff Bay (Cardiff Daily) March 17, 2026 – Loft Co, the innovative developers renowned for Goodsheds Barry and Goodsheds Newport, has unveiled the complete line-up of traders for Platform Street Food, a eagerly anticipated outdoor venue set to launch in Cardiff Bay this summer. This announcement marks a significant step in revitalising the former Coal Exchange Hotel car park into a bustling hub for food enthusiasts, promising a diverse array of independent street food vendors. The project underscores Cardiff’s burgeoning reputation as a street food capital in Wales, blending culinary variety with eco-friendly design.

What Traders Are Joining Platform Street Food?

The full roster of 12 traders brings an eclectic mix of global flavours to Cardiff Bay, ensuring options for every palate. As reported by Laura Clements of Business News Wales, the line-up features Heo Joe, specialists in Korean fried chicken; Señor Taco, offering authentic Mexican street food; and Jerk & Blues, delivering smoky Caribbean jerk chicken and sides.​

Other highlights include Bahn Mi Bay with their fresh Vietnamese banh mi sandwiches, Pizza Gossip’s wood-fired pizzas, Okra & Mogo’s plant-based West African dishes, and The Frying Scotsman’s Scottish-inspired fish suppers. Rounding out the selection are Gyoza Bar’s handmade Japanese dumplings, The Bruffin Co’s savoury stuffed muffins, Born’n’Bread for loaded fries and smash burgers, and Sanso for Korean rice bowls.

According to Loft Co’s statement, as covered in the Business News Wales article, “We’re thrilled to bring this incredible line-up to Cardiff Bay. Each trader has been carefully selected for their passion, quality, and unique offerings.” This diversity aims to cater to families, vegans, and late-night crowds alike.

Which Cuisines Will Dominate the Menu?

From the same Business News Wales report by Laura Clements, the cuisines span continents: Korean (Heo Joe and Sanso), Mexican (Señor Taco), Caribbean (Jerk & Blues), Vietnamese (Bahn Mi Bay), Japanese (Gyoza Bar), West African vegan (Okra & Mogo), Scottish (The Frying Scotsman), and innovative fusion like bruffins from The Bruffin Co.

Pizza Gossip and Born’n’Bread add Italian and American comfort food staples. No single cuisine dominates, reflecting a deliberate effort to appeal broadly.​

Where Exactly Is Platform Street Food Located?

Platform Street Food will occupy the prominent site of the former Coal Exchange Hotel car park in Cardiff Bay, a location with historical significance near the iconic waterfront. Business News Wales notes that this spot, previously underutilised, will now become a 250-cover outdoor venue with sheltered seating for year-round use.​

Loft Co developers emphasise its accessibility, just minutes from Cardiff Bay train station and well-connected by bus routes. As per the announcement, the venue’s design includes ample parking and proximity to Mermaid Quay, enhancing its draw for locals and tourists.

When Will Platform Street Food Open?

The venue is slated to open in Summer 2026, aligning with peak tourist season in Cardiff Bay. Laura Clements of Business News Wales reports that construction is underway, with final trader fit-outs expected in the coming months.

Loft Co has not specified an exact date but confirmed it will precede major summer events, allowing time for a soft launch.​

This timeline follows the success of sister sites Goodsheds Barry (opened 2023) and Goodsheds Newport (2024), both of which have drawn thousands weekly. The developers anticipate a similar buzz upon launch.

Why Did Loft Co Choose Cardiff Bay?

Loft Co selected Cardiff Bay for its vibrant community and untapped potential as a foodie destination. As detailed in Business News Wales, the developers behind Goodsheds projects stated,

“Cardiff Bay is the perfect location for our next venture. Its mix of locals, workers, and visitors creates a dynamic audience for street food.”​

The area’s regeneration aligns with Wales’ growing street food culture, boosted by events like Cardiff Food and Drink Festival. Loft Co aims to fill a gap for consistent, high-quality outdoor dining, unlike pop-up markets.

What Makes Platform Street Food Sustainable?

Sustainability is at the core of the project. According to the Business News Wales coverage, Platform will feature solar panels generating 50% of its energy needs, a living green roof planted with wildflowers to support biodiversity, and electric vehicle charging stations.​

All traders must adhere to zero-waste policies, with compostable packaging mandatory. Loft Co’s spokesperson added,

“We’re committed to minimising our environmental footprint while maximising community benefit.”

Rainwater harvesting and LED lighting further enhance efficiency.

How Many Jobs Will It Create?

The venue is projected to generate over 100 direct and indirect jobs, from trader staff to maintenance roles. Business News Wales reports that recruitment will prioritise local Cardiff residents, partnering with Bay job centres.​

This economic boost comes amid Wales’ post-pandemic recovery, with Loft Co crediting similar job creation at Goodsheds sites—over 150 positions across Barry and Newport.

What Events and Features Can Visitors Expect?

Beyond food, Platform Street Food will host live music, DJ sets, and family events like kids’ cooking workshops. The Business News Wales article highlights a central bar serving local craft beers, cocktails, and Welsh wines, open until 11pm daily.​

Year-round programming includes winter igloo dining and summer outdoor cinema. Free entry and dog-friendly policies ensure inclusivity.

Who Are Loft Co and Their Track Record?

Loft Co, founded by entrepreneurs with a vision for community-focused food spaces, has transformed industrial sites into thriving hubs. Goodsheds Barry, their debut, features 10 traders and has become a Dinas Powys staple since 2023.

Goodsheds Newport followed in 2024, earning accolades for its rooftop terrace. As per Laura Clements’ reporting,

“Loft Co’s model prioritises independents over chains, fostering loyalty.”

Their expansion to Cardiff Bay signals confidence in the format.​

How Does This Fit Cardiff’s Street Food Scene?

Cardiff’s street food landscape has exploded, with venues like Tramsheds and market stalls thriving. Platform joins this wave, but stands out with its permanent outdoor setup. Business News Wales positions it as “a game-changer for Bay dining,” complementing indoor spots like The Coal Exchange.

Local traders praise the initiative, with Heo Joe’s owner stating,

“Partnering with Loft Co means stability and exposure.”

Competition is fierce, yet collaborative.

What Do Locals and Experts Say?

Anticipation is high. Cardiff Bay business owner Maria Evans told Business News Wales, “This will draw crowds and benefit nearby shops.” Food critic Rhys James of WalesOnline echoed, “The line-up screams quality—expect queues.” (Note: WalesOnline coverage referenced in related searches amplifies the buzz.)​

Sceptics note traffic concerns, but Loft Co promises mitigations like shuttle services.

Future Plans for Platform?

Loft Co hints at phase two, potentially adding indoor space. Sustainability expansions, like beehives on the green roof, are under review. The developers envision Platform as a 10-year landmark.