The café at Cosmeston Lakes Country Park, which reopened under a new operator in May, is now run by the Big Fresh Catering Company.
But visitors have raised concerns about the supposed loss of hot meals and reduced service hours.
Aled Thomas, 32, wrote to the Penarth Times expressing disappointment with the changes:
He said: “I am writing to express my disappointment at the recent deterioration in catering services at Cosmeston Country Park, one of Penarth’s most treasured public attractions.
“Until recently, visitors could enjoy a hot meal at the café, with food available throughout the day until approximately 4pm.
“However, these arrangements have now changed dramatically.
“Hot meals have disappeared from the menu altogether, leaving only cold sandwiches.
“Worse still, food service now ends at 2pm, after which visitors can purchase takeaway drinks only.
“I find this absolutely ridiculous.”
Mr Thomas said the changes were especially unfair to families, walkers and pensioners who visit later in the day.
Mr Thomas told the Penarth Times: “Surely it’s not only me that’s complaining because I’ve been in there and people are saying it’s ridiculous.
“They might get less customers during the colder months, but people are going to be using this all year. People know it’s here and it’s good for increasing tourism.
“It’s a very well thought out café and the refurbishment has been really successful but this is really disappointing.
“Cosmeston deserves better, and so do its visitors.”
The Vale council confirmed Big Fresh Catering runs the café, as well as venues at Penarth Pier and Belle Vue Park upon its reopening in the spring.
A spokesperson for Big Fresh said: “The café at Cosmeston continues to offer a range of hot food options for visitors.
“Recent menu additions are being promoted through new table-top flyers and include chilli jacket potatoes which extends the jacket potato range.
“Visitors can also purchase hot food items such as toasted sandwiches, paninis, pasties, sausage rolls and other weekly specials.
“In response to seasonal changes in visitor numbers, hot food service is currently available with the preparation of cooked-to-order hot meals concluding at 2pm.
“This adjustment reflects the reduced demand typically experienced during the start of autumn.
“Importantly, the café continues to serve toasted teacakes and toast throughout the day.
“A full range of cakes, traybakes, ice creams, teas, coffees and other refreshments also remains available as normal.”
“As part of our food safety and cleaning procedures, the café transitions to a takeaway-only service approximately 30 to 60 minutes before closing. This allows staff sufficient time to undertake essential cleaning and food safety tasks while continuing to provide visitors with drinks and light refreshments.
Big Fresh Catering said it regularly reviews its offerings and opening hours to meet customer demand while maintaining food safety and value.
