Places to eat and drink in Ventnor

Feeling peckish? Then you’ve come to the right place. Ventnor is the gourmet capital of the Island with many bars, cafés, restaurants and tea rooms, so the hungry visitor is spoilt for choice. The tantalising options range from fabulous fry-ups to global fusion cuisine.

Ventnor started out as a small fishing village in the 19th century, and the fruits of the sea are just as important today. The area is famed for the crab and lobster, caught right here in Ventnor Bay, and served up in every type of dish you can think of, from risotto to pasties. Inevitably, the best fish and chips on the Island can be found right here in Ventnor.

Many of our top restaurants have been awarded AA Rosettes for outstanding food. They use island-grown produce, such as the world-famous local tomatoes and tender asparagus (plucked from the fields in the morning, served up on a plate in the evening). There are also delicious Isle of Wight cheeses, including Gallybagger (an unpasteurised cheddar) and Isle of Wight Soft (a brie-like cheese that will one day take over the world).

Eating and drinking in Ventnor is a culinary experience that everyone should experience. It’s hard to beat a fantastic meal overlooking the rolling sea, as the sky turns from turquoise to orange to crimson to inky black. Accompanied by a glass of something special, with someone you love… life doesn’t really get much better than this.

Don’t miss

Kir royales and tapas at the Met, overlooking the sea.

Take your pick

So, what are the best restaurants and cafés in Ventnor? Choose from this mouth-watering selection of gourmet destinations.

Main photo of The Royal by Eileen Long Photography