One of Cardiff’s popular burger pop-ups has just been named one of the best burger joints in the UK.
09:29, 25 Jul 2025Updated 09:46, 25 Jul 2025
Tom’s Smashed Burgers, which has a residency in uber-cool Dalton Yard, bagged a spot on the coveted list.(Image: Tom’s Smashed Burgers)
One of Cardiff’s popular burger pop-ups has just been named one of the best burger joints in the UK.
The Times has listed the best places to eat burgers in the UK this summer, and Tom’s Smashed Burgers, which has a residency in uber-cool Dalton Yard, bagged a spot on the coveted list.
“I’m completely overwhelmed with being in the top 27 best burger joints in the UK,” says Tomos Hill, the entrepreneurial burger maestro and founder of the pop-up. “And I’m especially grateful to be the only Welsh place on the list.”
Known for their photogenic smashed beef patties smothered with American cheese, burger sauce, and pickles in a seeded brioche bun and finger-licking good dirty fries, Tom’s American-style smashed burgers have garnered a cult following among hungry Cardiffians.
But what exactly is a smash burger? The term refers to the cooking technique: a ball of minced beef, usually high-fat for maximum flavour, is pressed or “smashed” onto a ripping-hot griddle, creating a thin, caramelised crust known as the Maillard reaction.
The result? Crispy edges, juicy centres, and a deeply beefy flavour in every bite. Typically served in soft buns with classic toppings like cheese, pickles, onions and house-made sauces, smash burgers are the antithesis of thick pub-style patties and are wildly addictive.
Originally popularised in the US, smash burgers have exploded in popularity across the UK(Image: Tom’s Smashed Burgers)
Originally popularised in the US, smash burgers have exploded in popularity across the UK, with pop-ups and indie joints bringing their own twists to this satisfying street food trend. In Wales, Cardiff is leading the charge, and Tom’s is at the forefront of the scene.
Evans writes of his burgers, “Things can get messy when you order one of these dry-aged smashed burgers, which come with their insides spilling out. And that’s a good thing. Look out for monthly specials such as the chorizo and pineapple jam burger.”
Here in Cardiff, we’ve long known that Tom’s Smash Burgers is a standout on the fast-growing burger scene. Run by talented nineteen-year-old chef Tomos alongside his 18-year-old brother Sion, these flattened griddle-cooked burgers are being raved about all over social media, and for good reason.
Here in Cardiff, we’ve long known that Tom’s Smash Burgers is a standout on the fast-growing burger scene.(Image: Tom’s Smashed Burgers)
Tom’s normal home is in Crafty Devil Cellar in Penarth, but he’s also been popping up in new foodie hotspot Dalton Yard, an off-beat foodie pop-up in Cathays you might walk past without even realising it’s there.
Located on Dalton Road, just behind the swanky Hendersøn&co Salon on Crwys Road, this small refurbished courtyard oozes hipster chic with rustic reclaimed school furniture and exposed brickwork.
Since opening in 2024, this small, refurbished courtyard has quietly become one of Cardiff’s coolest hangouts. With rustic reclaimed school furniture, exposed brickwork and rotation of street food faves serving freshly cooked eats, it’s got that effortlessly cool, under-the-radar charm.
Since opening in 2024, Dalton Yard has quietly become one of Cardiff’s coolest hangouts(Image: Dalton Yard)
‘Tom’s popularity is growing all the time, says Dalton yard owner Oliver Bennett. “He’s in Dalton Yard again this weekend and we feel very lucky to have his burgers at our venue!”
Bennett has done an extraordinary job of transforming a disused courtyard into a buzzing spot in Cathays, loved by students and foodie fans.
The glowing online reviews speak for themselves. One visitor raved on social media: “Amazing food and the sweetest owners! Perfect for weekend food and drinks.”
Another dubbed it a “cool little market area with DJ serving cans, bottles & burgers.” Chris Wade added, ” The Food was great, the staff were lovely, and there were really good vibes.”
Dalton Yard may still be a lesser-known spot, but it’s gathering a loyal following fast(Image: Dalton Yard)
Dalton Yard may still be a lesser-known spot, but it’s gathering a loyal following fast, especially with its sizzling summer schedule. Available for private hire, the courtyard also plays host to a string of laid-back, music-fuelled weekend sessions. The next one lands this weekend, promising burgers, beats and backyard energy in full swing.
Thursday through Saturday, 5 PM to 10 PM, Tom will serve up their juiciest bites yet, alongside live DJ sets from Mr Harry Brown and Ominous Sound System. Expect decent eats, big beats, cold drinks, and that elusive summer-night buzz.
Eat the best burger in Wales(Image: Portia Jones )
It’s Cardiff’s latest must-visit for street food fans and another sign that the city’s burger game is firmly on the rise. We’ll certainly be heading down to try one of the UK’s best burgers asap.
For more information and upcoming events, follow Dalton Yard on Instagram.