The Isle of Wight’s top 10 most-recommended places to eat

We asked, you answered: Recommended by the people who know the Isle of Wight best – the ones who visit, live it, love it and never stop finding delicious new corners of it!

If there’s one thing we’ve learnt over the years, it’s that you never hold back when we ask for recommendations. We ask for your two cents’ worth via our vast Facebook community.  So, when we popped the question:

More than 500 of you jumped in to share your favourites, from cliff-top pubs to cosy cafés.

And because we sail thousands of people to and from the Island every day, we know just how valuable this insider knowledge is.

By the end of this blog, you’ll know exactly where to book for your next visit, whether you’re after beach views, hearty pub classics or the kind of cakes that demand your full attention!

Let’s tuck in.

No surprise here, The Spyglass Inn swept the comments, with locals raving about its sea views, seafood dishes and live-music atmosphere.

This beloved family-run pub/restaurant sits right on the shoreline overlooking the Channel. One guest wrote: “My favourite pub anywhere in the world… right on the water’s edge.”

And they’re right. With fresh seafood, a hearty pub feel and that terrace view out to sea make it an experience to remember. With 38 mentions it topped our list.

Why people love it: Waves rolling in beneath you, hearty classics, locally caught crab and one of the best sunset spots on the Island.

Set in the countryside on the edge of Brading, this family-run pub with a restaurant is described as “extremely welcoming, friendly staff, delicious food and prompt service.”

The Yarbridge Inn is a cosy little pub with an adjoining restaurant, where the real culinary magic happens. When the sun is shining they also have a beautiful outside terrace to enjoy.

With over 40 years of experience, they use locally sourced ingredients (including veggies grown by their neighbour Keith!) to give you that true taste of the Island in hearty traditional meals. With 34 mentions, it’s a strong local favourite.

Why people love it: Local produce, generous plates and famously friendly service.

Run by family Robert, Rachel, Scarlett and Brandon Burrows, this traditional 400-year-old pub is ideal for a first-time visitor wanting authentic Island experience.

The Blacksmiths serve home cooked seasonal British meals, some with a twist, all made with local produce.  They even have a selection of local ales to pair.

With 31 mentions, visitors aren’t only enamoured with the food but also with the views saying, “Rob’s food and Rachel’s hospitality a perfect mix – not to mention fantastic views of the Solent and kids play area.”

Why people love it: Elevated takes on pub classics, seasonal specials and a kids play area perfect for families.

The Steamer Inn shows up again and again in our results because of its prime seafront location, simple yet excellent food and relaxed atmosphere. One commenter said “Best on the Island especially on a sunny day.”

During the summer months, there’s nothing better than sitting on the terrace soaking up the panoramic views across Sandown Bay, over the English Channel.

After a stroll along Shanklin’s esplanade, settle in at The Steamer for ice-cream, seafood, or a drink from their great selection of beers and wine. A perfect holiday moment.

Why people love it: Seafront dining, live music, great for families, vibrant summer atmosphere.

The Wight Mouse Inn is a slightly off-the-beaten-track gem, perfect for visitors who want to explore the Island’s quieter corners and still enjoy excellent food. Situated on the South coast of the Island, with unbeatable ocean views.

They serve hearty British food with good service in a quieter, scenic setting away from the bustle. Commenters saying  “Our go-to… friendly, fantastic food and atmosphere.”

If you’re exploring the south west of the Island (Chale, Blackgang, Brook), this pub/restaurant has the relaxed “Island old-school charm” plus strong reviews for food and service.

Why people love it: A true country pub with hearty dishes and a big following, especially among walkers.

This farm-style venue combines genuine local character with a superb menu. They are especially known for an excellent Sunday roasts backed by its strong reputation among locals and visitors alike.

Located in the heart of Arreton Valley, the Dairyman’s Daughter is a great option for someone staying centrally or wanting a countryside meal after exploring the Island’s largest arts and crafts village.

Packed with traditional favourites alongside a regularly changing specials board, you will be spoiled for choice.

Why people love it: Rustic charm, great roasts and live folk music.

Gossips Café proves that the Island’s best spots aren’t always by the sea front, they’re nestled in charming town centres too.

If you’re arriving to the Island via our Lymington – Yarmouth route or simply exploring West Wight, this café is a perfect first stop for a quality meal or coffee moment.

They are most recommended for their breakfasts, brunch, good coffee and the perfect friendly local hang-out.

Why people love it: Breakfast with harbour views, reliable staples and a friendly atmosphere, ideal for foot passengers arriving via our Yarmouth route.

Harvey Browns is a great foodie spot for exploring locally sourced produce in a rural setting.

The Restaurant is linked to a delicious Island famous farm shop, where local produce is at the heart of everything they do. We saw excellent reviews “Harvey Browns… great food and a fabulous farm shop too.”

Some even call it the complete Isle of Wight food experience and we’d have to agree!

Why people love it: Modern dining on a working farm, beautiful interiors and exceptional produce straight from the land.

Would it really be a top ten if the famous Garlic Farm wasn’t mentioned? This unique destination centres around garlic…but offers much more.

It’s really a destination within a destination, you can make a whole day out of your visit: exploring the farmlands, picking up local produce from their farm shop and of course having a garlic inspired meal at their restaurant.

In short, you can sample the best garlicky food in beautiful farm surroundings with friendly service, fully licensed bar and excellent views across the valley.

Why people love it: A true Island icon with a farm shop, tasting room and a restaurant built around local garlic and seasonal ingredients.

Affectionately know as Long John’s by locals, located at the bottom of Ryde’s Union Street it’s an excellent choice for anyone arriving via our Portsmouth – Ryde route or exploring the northeast coast of the Island.

In this friendly café setting you can enjoy breakfasts, fish and chips, cream teas… all the local classics with vegetarian and gluten free options to cater for everyone.

This one stands out for giving a nostalgic seaside holiday feel, all with great value for money.

Why people love it: Friendly service, comforting breakfasts, great value and a nostalgic favourite for many.

Even if they didn’t make the top ten, these places came with real affection and glowing reviews:

• The Royal Hotel, Ventnor – elegant dining with sea views.
• Smoking Lobster, Ventnor – pan-Asian fusion, top-tier ingredients.
• On The Rocks, Yarmouth – hot stone cooking, a fun experience.
• Caffe Isola, Newport – artisan roastery and café.
• Pebbles Café, Sandown – beachfront brunch spot.
• Tandem Tea Rooms, Brighstone – a West Wight treat.
• The Bay Vegan Deli, Sandown – plant-based favourite.

These are the kinds of places that don’t always dominate comment sections but leave a huge impression on those who go.

• Our ferries connect you conveniently to the Island via three routes, making these all these eateries accessible.
• Plan ahead and choose one or two food stops for the day, create your itinerary to make sure you can fit as much as you want in to your time on the Island.
• For peak dinner times (especially beach spots) consider arriving early or booking if possible.

With regular crossings from Portsmouth and Lymington, your next meal out is closer than you think.

Whether you fancy seafood by the waves, farmhouse lunches or hidden rural gems, the Island’s food scene always delivers.

And now thanks to hundreds of locals and visitors sharing their trusted favourites, you’ve got a ready-made shortlist to explore!

See original post for even more recommendations.