Newport restaurant Moka E Farina impresses with food

Moka E Farina, located at 31 Commercial Street in Newport city centre, was awarded a five-star food hygiene rating following an inspection.

The restaurant's Mediterranean and Italian dishes are keeping customers coming back (Image: Supplied)

The restaurant has also expanded its delivery service and continues to receive positive feedback from customers.

One satisfied customer praised the seafood, writing: "The calamari was surprisingly cooked perfect and tasted amazing.

"When you say 'mmm' every time you take a bite... we are definitely coming back."

The Mediterranean-inspired cafe received the highest possible hygiene rating following an inspection on January 13, 2026.

Inspectors praised the cafe for its "very good" standards in food handling, cleanliness, and safety management.

Mr Harache, 46, brings more than 20 years of culinary experience to the business.

He began his career in 2000 and has worked in kitchens across Europe, including in Paris and Ireland.

Moka E Farina now operates from a prime spot on Newport's Commercial Street (Image: Supplied)

Before opening the restaurant on Commercial Street, he spent two years running a stall in Newport Market.

His travels inspired a fondness for 'late cafes'—relaxed venues that stay open into the evening, serving coffee and food into the early hours.

Moka E Farina offers a diverse menu, from Mediterranean brunch dishes and omelettes to cottage pie, lasagne, and traditional Italian pasta.

The grill menu features mixed grill, lamb chops, and Cajun chicken.

All dishes are made to order using fresh, high-quality ingredients, and vegetarian options are also available.

The restaurant serves only halal food and does not serve alcohol on the premises.

Since opening on the high street, Moka E Farina has continued to earn praise from customers.

Ninety-two percent of Facebook reviewers have recommended the restaurant with glowing comments. 

The restaurant has recently expanded its delivery options and is now available on Just Eat and Uber Eats.

The team has also focused on improving the restaurant's exterior, including the removal of scaffolding to create a more inviting street presence.

Moka E Farina is open Monday to Thursday from 10am to 4pm, and Friday to Saturday from 10am to 5pm.