Dreaming of a coastal getaway to the Isle of Wight, where fresh sea air blends with mouthwatering and perfectly cooked seafood? 🦐
We’re setting sail on a culinary journey and discovering the hidden foodie gems (and not-so-secret hotspots) that will make your next Isle of Wight staycation unforgettable. From eating out on Ventnor seafront to discovering the island’s gorgeous restaurants with sea views of the Solent, let’s dive into the 12 best restaurants on the Isle of Wight below.
1. The Terrace – Yarmouth
Craving a waterfront view with your meal? Then look no further than The Terrace in Yarmouth. This delightful rooftop restaurant lives up to its name with a gorgeous terrace that boasts stunning views of Yarmouth Harbour and the Solent.
Renowned for their fresh, seasonal seafood dishes, The Terrace’s lunch and dinner menu features everything from exquisite roast cod fillet to succulent mussels and scallop chowder, as well as showcasing their commitment to the Isle of Wight’s local produce with their crispy gnocchi with IoW asparagus. Whether you’re looking for a relaxed lunch on the terrace or a more formal dinner experience inside, The Terrace offers something for everyone.
2. Fins Beach Cafe – Sandown
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Beachside brunch has never tasted so good. Located south of Sandown Beach, Fins Beach Cafe is one of the island’s most beloved foodie spots – and for good reason! Winning GOLD in Red Funnel’s Isle of Wight Awards 2023 for the best cafe/tearoom, Fins Beach Cafe serves a picture-perfect and scrumptious breakfast and lunch from 9am until 3pm, seven days a week, all year around.
From refreshing smoothie bowls to breakfast burritos and even the Fin’s ‘McRoll’, this seaside restaurant packs a punch with its mouthwatering menu options and calming views of the English Channel. Don’t forget! Fins Beach Cafe doesn’t take bookings, so be sure to arrive early to grab a table.
3. The Cow – Yarmouth
Calling all burger lovers! If you’re searching for the perfect juicy patty on your Isle of Wight exploration, then look no further than The Cow at Tapnell Farm. This family-friendly restaurant isn’t your typical burger joint. Housed in a charming converted Swiss barn, The Cow offers a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for a casual lunch or a cosy dinner.
But the real star of the show here is their award-winning burgers. Using only the finest local produce, The Cow crafts delicious creations that cater to all appetites. From classic hand-pressed beef patty burgers to BBQ chicken breasts and even delicious plant-based patties – no one gets left out of the burger bonanza.
4. Garlic Farm Shop & Restaurant – Sandown
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If the scent of garlic makes your stomach rumble, then The Garlic Farm is a must-visit stop on your Isle of Wight foodie tour. This family-run garlic haven isn’t just a farm shop overflowing with garlicky goodies (ever heard of black garlic ice cream?) but also boasts a fantastic restaurant that celebrates all things local.
At the Garlic Farm Restaurant, you’ll find fresh, high-quality dishes bursting with flavour, thanks to their home-reared beef and goat alongside the island’s finest produce. Image digging into the pan-fried free-range chicken supreme with a garlicky Caesar salad while gazing out at the beautiful Arreton Valley. Sounds pretty idyllic, right?
5. Smoking Lobster – Ventnor & Cowes
On the hunt for fresh seafood with a stunning view? Then set sail for Smoking Lobster! This IoW favourite boasts two locations, each offering a unique twist on its delicious Asian-fusion cuisine. In Ventnor snag a table with a beachside view and savour plump lobster, sizzling soft-shell crab or their signature pan-Asian dishes.
For a touch of history with your meal, head to Smoking Lobster’s Cowes location. Housed within the grand confines of a converted Georgian Town Hall, Foresters Hall, this restaurant offers a more upscale setting. Here, you can indulge in the same delectable seafood creations alongside an impressive selection of Asian-inspired cocktails.
Whether you’re seeking a casual beachside vibe or a touch of sophistication, Smoking Lobster has you covered.
6. The Old Fort – Seaview
If you’re searching for a seaside pub experience with a million-dollar view, then The Old Fort at Seaview is the spot for you. This award-winning pub and restaurant isn’t just about delicious food. Perch yourself on their seawall terrace and soak in the epic panorama of The Solent. Watch sailboats bob on the gentle waves as the sun dips below the horizon and discover one of the island’s most beautiful sunsets.
But The Old Fort is more than just its scenery. Their menu boasts fresh, local produce and delectable pub classics, making it the perfect spot to refuel after a day of exploring the Isle of Wight’s charming coastline.
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7. Off the Rails – Yarmouth
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Fancy a spot of lunch with a touch of history on the side? Off the Rails in Yarmouth is a quirky restaurant that isn’t your average eatery. Housed in the former Yarmouth train station, Off the Rails sits alongside the old railway line, offering diners a truly unique setting.
Sip on a local craft beer or a glass of wine, all while soaking in the historic vibes of the station and enjoying scenic views of the Yarmouth Marshes. Whether you’re a train enthusiast, a lover of all things vintage or simply seeking a relaxed and scenic spot for a bite to eat, Off the Rails is guaranteed to hit the right note.
8. Drunken Lobster – Ventnor
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If a taste of the Tokyo nightlife scene tickles your fancy, the Drunken Lobster in Ventnor is sure to be right up your street! This trendy spot offers a cool, Izakaya-style atmosphere, perfect for a relaxed evening of sharing plates and sipping on clever cocktails.
With intimate, dimly lit booths where you can catch glimpses of the chefs expertly grilling yakitori skewers, the menu is a delightful fusion of Asian and local flavours. Featuring fresh seafood alongside tempting options like chicken bao buns and miso-glazed aubergine, grab a seat, order a round of their signature ‘Drunken Lobster’ cocktails and prepare to be transported to a world of delicious flavours.
9. The Beach Shack – Steephill Cove
If you prefer hidden bays to busy seaside towns, then lunch at The Beach Shack in Steephill Cove is the perfect restaurant choice for you. This gem isn’t for the faint of foodies – reaching it involves a scenic 1.5-mile walk along the coastal path from Ventnor Beach. But trust us, the jaw-dropping views of the English Channel and the promise of a post-walk feast will have you practically skipping down the path.
Once you arrive at this rustic beach shack, you’ll be greeted by the aroma of freshly prepared food and the sound of waves lapping the shore. The Beach Shack offers a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for kicking off your sandals and digging into delicious local crab delicacies and light bites.
10. The Duck – Ryde
Located in the idyllic coastal town of Ryde, The Duck is a gorgeous dinner spot with a relaxed and elegant atmosphere that isn’t just about aesthetics. This quaint restaurant in Ryde, prides itself on serving uncomplicated yet exceptional dishes, using the freshest local Isle of Wight produce.
With an ever-changing menu throughout the seasons, expect dishes that showcase the island’s bounty at its finest. Think succulent seafood, tender roasted meats and creative vegetarian options – all bursting with flavour. Whether you’re unwinding after a day of exploring Ryde or simply seeking a delectable meal in a lovely setting, The Duck is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
11. Prego – East Cowes
Enjoy the taste of Italy nestled in the heart of the Isle of Wight at Prego! This East Cowes restaurant offers a warm welcome to the island and a menu brimming with Italian classics made for sharing and savouring. Think perfectly al dente pastas, bubbling lasagnas and pizzas piled high with fresh toppings.
Prego prides itself on sourcing authentic Italian staples alongside the island’s finest produce. So, tuck into a steaming plate of spaghetti bolognese, the rich sauce clinging to the pasta, while knowing the tomatoes might have come from a nearby farm. Prego is one of the cosiest places to eat in East Cowes packed with comforting, soul-warming dishes perfect for a relaxed night out with friends and family.
12. The Hut – Freshwater
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