Barry Island’s newest addition has been a huge talking point over the last few months.
It took a lengthy planning period and then some construction setbacks and opening date delays before customers were able to make their way into the Morio Lounge in mid-July.
Stepping into this building, it’s hard to believe that it was once a dilapidated toilet block that had sat empty for decades.
Now, this space has been entirely transformed to create a stylish and welcoming space for all.
I’m partial to a Loungers bar, with their varied menu often giving enough choice that I don’t feel ‘bored’ by their offerings. With my first non-work-based visit, I wanted to really appreciate this space and all on offer here.
I visited during their self-proclaimed ‘busy hours’ (during the evening) but was still able to get a table fairly easily.
There are plenty of seating options with every single space inside this deceptively large building utilised, whether it be the main dining space or a cosy nook with comfy seats – the latter of which I chose to sit in.
Ordering is easy enough and can either be done through your phone by scanning the QR code that sits on the block of menus or by speaking to one of the extremely friendly staff members at the bar.
Drinks-wise, there are plenty of options for those who would like something alcoholic or not, with smoothies, soft drinks, and zero/low per cent beers on offer.
I went with a zero per cent Birra Moretti for £4.65 and ordered my food at the same time through the QR code.
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It seems wrong to go to a Loungers bar and not order tapas – so that’s exactly what I did.
Each of their tapas dishes is £5.50 each, or you can get a 3-dish tapas board for £14.50 – a £2 discount, but a deal all the same.
It was a difficult choice between their varied options, but I eventually decided to order the Bombay cauliflower, Louisiana fried chicken with maple BBQ sauce, and patatas bravas.
Each of their dishes and their respective sauces were different enough to offer a completely different taste as I moved along the board.
The meal came out quickly, was piping hot, and extremely tasty – there really were no faults here.
As much as the dishes seem small, they were extremely filling and give you the freedom to build your own meal – it’s a welcome change from the set menu you may get in a lot of other similar establishments.
Overall, my first visit to the Morio Lounge was an extremely pleasant experience.
Next time I come back will have to be during a sunny day to make the most of their extensive outdoor seating.
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