When the weekend feels too far away and you’re itching to unwind, a Thursday night out can be just the remedy. The options for a good time are many — but if you’re looking for Cardiff clubs on Thursday night, The Bootlegger is the top choice.
Tucked away on the atmospheric Womanby Street, The Bootlegger is a speakeasy-inspired cocktail bar that brings together vintage charm, handcrafted drinks, and outstanding live music. It’s not your average Cardiff club — and that’s exactly why it’s becoming the go-to spot for Thursday night revellers looking to swap sticky dancefloors for jazz, swing, soul and serious style.
Step Into a Different Era
From the moment you step inside The Bootlegger, you’ll feel as though you’ve been whisked away from the fast pace of modern life and dropped into the glamour of the 1920s. With exposed brick walls, warm Edison lighting, vintage signs and an old-school soundtrack to match, the venue channels all the energy of a roaring speakeasy — but with a distinctly contemporary Cardiff twist.
It’s this distinctive aesthetic that sets The Bootlegger apart from your typical nightclub. Instead of neon lights and pounding bass, expect a vibe that’s sultry, smooth, and effortlessly cool. Perfect for a midweek catch-up, date night, or spontaneous outing that turns into something special.
Cocktails That Hit the Spot
Of course, a great night out starts with a great drink — and The Bootlegger’s extensive cocktail menu is nothing short of spectacular. You’ll find everything from the familiar favourites to bold, imaginative creations that showcase the team’s mixology skills.
Standout choices include the house-special Bootlegger cocktail — a luscious combination of vodka, crème de mûre, apple juice, cinnamon, and vanilla syrup, finished with a biscuit rim and fresh blackberries. For those after a classic, the Whiskey Sour, Espresso Martini or Old Fashioned are expertly made with premium ingredients and plenty of flair.
Not a cocktail lover? No problem. The Bootlegger also offers a carefully curated list of craft beers, local ales, ciders, and wines — ensuring there’s something for every taste.
Live Music Every Thursday
What truly makes The Bootlegger stand out on a Thursday night is its dedication to live music. While many clubs rely on DJs and playlists, The Bootlegger delivers the real thing — talented musicians performing everything from mellow jazz and blues to toe-tapping swing and soul.
The intimate layout of the bar means you’re never far from the stage, and the connection between performers and audience creates a lively, interactive atmosphere that you simply can’t find in bigger, more generic venues. It’s the kind of night where you come for one drink and end up staying for the whole set — possibly even dancing by the end of it.
A Midweek Escape Worth Taking
Thursday night at The Bootlegger is more than just a night out — it’s a midweek escape. The crowd is friendly, the staff are welcoming and knowledgeable, and the whole place strikes a brilliant balance between upbeat and laid-back.
You can dress up if you feel like it or stroll in straight from work — either way, you’ll feel right at home. And with Cardiff’s central nightlife right on the doorstep, The Bootlegger is also an ideal place to start or end your evening.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for clubs in Cardiff on a Thursday night, skip the usual spots and make your way to The Bootlegger. With its stylish setting, incredible drinks, and live music that lifts the soul, it offers something far more memorable than your standard night out.
So gather your mates, soak up the vintage vibes, and let Thursday night at The Bootlegger set the tone for an unforgettable weekend ahead.
The Bootlegger, Womanby Street, Cardiff
See who’s playing and book your table at bootleggerbars.com
Because Thursdays were made for jazz, cocktails, and good company.
