Top 5 Places to Eat in Isle of Wight

Written by Graham Smith, Hannah McKinsey, Jake Evans, Karen Price, Sandra Frank
26/08/2025
Stunning coastal landscape featuring the iconic Needles on the Isle of Wight with vibrant pink heather in the foreground.
Altaf Shah, Pexels

The Isle of Wight's dining scene has evolved to offer a diverse selection of restaurants, with a strong emphasis on fresh, local seafood and island produce, suitable for a variety of tastes and occasions.

1. The Hut

Cuisine: Mediterranean seafood, grilled meats, cocktails

Nestled on Colwell Bay, The Hut provides a vibrant, beachside atmosphere often compared to the Balearic Islands. It is renowned for its fresh seafood, such as crab salad and whole grilled plaice, complemented by a selection of creative cocktails. The restaurant features an opening roof for sunny days, enhancing its lively and celebratory feel. Reservations are highly recommended due to its popularity.

Price: Starters: £10-£15, Main courses: up to £40, Fruits de Mer: from £55 (without lobster) - £110 (with lobster)

Getting There: Guests often reach The Hut by charter boat from the mainland or via a dedicated one-tonne truck shuttle service from Yarmouth Harbour, adding to the unique experience.

2. Smoking Lobster Cowes

Cuisine: Pan-Asian seafood, sushi, cocktails

Located on Cowes High Street, Smoking Lobster offers an imaginative Pan-Asian dining experience focusing on fresh, locally sourced seafood. Signature dishes include lobster tempura and ginger-baked sea bass, alongside various sushi options. The restaurant boasts chic decor and a relaxed ambiance, suitable for both casual and special occasions, with an extensive list of wines and sake.

Price: Approximately £50-£70 per person for a multi-course meal

Getting There: Situated in the heart of Cowes, the restaurant is easily accessible on foot from the town centre and ferry terminals.

3. Thompson's

Cuisine: Contemporary British, local Isle of Wight produce

Led by Michelin-starred Chef Robert Thompson, this restaurant, now in Ryde, delivers a refined culinary experience. It showcases contemporary British cuisine, highlighting seasonal and locally sourced Isle of Wight ingredients. An eight-course tasting menu is a popular choice, providing a comprehensive journey through the chef's innovative style. The setting is informally elegant, with an open kitchen allowing diners to observe the culinary team.

Price: Tasting menu upwards of £70-£100+ per person

Getting There: Located in Ryde, it is within walking distance of the town's central area and public transport links.

4. Cantina

Cuisine: Casual dining, diverse menu with vegan options, cocktails

Found in the picturesque town of Ventnor, Cantina provides a casual yet vibrant dining setting. Its ever-changing menu features home-cooked dishes, a range of handcrafted cocktails, and notable vegan-friendly options, such as freekah stuffed pepper. The restaurant is praised for its friendly service and inviting, eclectically designed atmosphere, making it a comfortable choice for brunch or dinner.

Price: Main courses typically £15-£25 per person

Getting There: Cantina is conveniently located in Ventnor and is generally within walking distance from local accommodations and the seafront.

5. Corrie's Cabin

Cuisine: Traditional British fish and chips

A beloved local spot in Cowes, Corrie's Cabin offers the quintessential British fish and chips experience. It is celebrated for its generous portions of freshly battered fish and crispy chips, providing a satisfying and authentic meal. While there is a small area for dining in, many choose to take their food away to enjoy by the waterfront.

Price: Main courses typically £8-£15 per person

Getting There: Located on Shooters Hill in Cowes, the cabin is easily accessible on foot from the town centre and waterfront.

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