Ever get a craving for authentic Indonesian flavours without the long-haul flight? Look no further than Waroeng Nona, a delightful food van tucked away outside Queen’s Arcade on Working Street in Cardiff. This unassuming spot offers a truly transportive culinary experience that takes your taste buds straight to Asia!
Run by Nona Spiesz, a talented chef who moved from Indonesia to Cardiff, Waroeng Nona is a hidden gem in the city’s dynamic food scene. From its beginnings as a pandemic-born delivery service, this vibrant pop-up now serves some of the most mouth-watering Indo-Malay dishes you’ll find in Wales.
And yes, even Saturday Kitchen’s Matt Tebbutt is raving about it! When a renowned chef recommends it, you know it’s a must-try. Specifically, Mama Jane’s Beef Rendang from Waroeng Nona has been lauded for its rich, slow-cooked perfection and that delightful, spicy kick.
I recently tried this famed rendang, served with rice, pickled vegetables, coriander, crispy onions, and a crunchy Indonesian cracker. The aroma alone was enough to make my mouth water. As I tucked into this flavour-packed dish, the combination of spices and melt-in-your-mouth texture was nothing short of sublime. For those who fear a bit of heat, steer clear—this dish brings the perfect level of spice for thrill-seekers!
Not only is the rendang a winner, but Waroeng Nona also offers other delights like jackfruit curry, chicken skewers, and crispy soy rolls. Each visit is a culinary adventure, making it perfect for anyone on the hunt for wallet-friendly, authentic street food.
So, next time you’re wandering Cardiff city centre, pop over to this food van and treat yourself. Your taste buds will thank you! 🌶️🍛
Follow Waroeng Nona on Instagram for a sneak peek at their menu and updates. Trust me—you’ll want to mark this one on your foodie map!