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steak and peppercorn sauce

Special Occasion Dining

Whether you’re celebrating a milestone occasion, or you just fancy an indulgent foodie treat, there’s a host of Island dining experiences that feel just a little bit special

From romantic bistros with a sunset view, to atmospheric restaurants great for wining and dining. Discover standout eateries across the Isle of Wight and enjoy delicious dining in an exceptional setting – a gastronomic experience you won’t forget.

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neatly plated lamb dish
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various dishes of food on restaurant table

The Hambrough

The Hambrough

Perched above Ventnor Bay, The Hambrough boasts breathtaking sea views from every window. Mentioned in the Michelin Guide and awarded 2 AA Rosettes, the kitchen is under the guidance of Chef Matthew Tomkinson, who’s also earned two Michelin stars in previous roles. The Hamborough presents carefully prepared dishes that highlight Island-grown and reared produce, ensuring fresh and locally sourced ingredients. Don’t forget to finish with a sophisticated dessert, such as White Chocolate and Cherry Cheesecake. Yum! 

The Geranium Restaurant at The Royal Hotel

The Geranium Restaurant | The Royal

The Royal Hotel has achieved 2 AA Rosettes for excellent food for over 28 consecutive years. The Geranium is open to both guests and visiting diners, serving lunch, dinner, and an indulgent Afternoon Tea – once enjoyed by Queen Victoria herself. For lunch enjoy a menu of freshly prepared sandwiches and light bites, through to more substantial plates and delicious sides. Lunch is served in a sunny conservatory, elegant dining room or alfresco in the pretty gardens. For dinner, choose from an indulgent fine dining menu packed full of local Island ingredients, served in an opulent dining room – the scene set by high ceilings, ornate décor, and crystal chandeliers. A luxurious dining experience not to be missed, booking for lunch, dinner and Afternoon Tea is essential.

The Terrace

The Terrace

A beautiful harbourside restaurant boasting spectacular sea views, The Terrace is an idyllic spot for a long lunch, delicious dinner or just a coffee with a croissant and a view.  The light and airy dining space is elegant yet informal, with a large outside terrace giving the restaurant its name. This outside space (alongside the food) is what makes this restaurant really special. Sun drenched in summer with sparkling blue seas providing the backdrop to your meal, it’s easy to forget you’re in the UK. During the colder months, The Terrace offers stylish glass dining pods outside, each one dressed with candles, faux furs and blankets to create a chic and comfortable dining experience whatever the temperature. Cosy up in the privacy of your pod and enjoy breath-taking sunset views and sparkling stars overhead. Dinners can look forward to a well curated bistro menu for lunch and dinner, with two and three course set menus available and an extensive drinks list. Booking is recommended for the restaurant and is essential for the outdoor pods.

The Duck

The Duck

A relaxed restaurant with pretty views over Ryde Canoe Lake and the golden sands of Appley Beach, at The Duck you can expect great food and a warm welcome. Head Chef and owner Charlie Bartlett has worked at some of the Island’s finest restaurants for over 20 years, now branching out with his first solo venture. With The Duck, Charlie has achieved an uncomplicated but elegant restaurant, serving honest and exceptional food using the finest local ingredients. Diners can expect a menu of impeccable restaurant favourites, simple food done very well. The Duck is open for lunch and dinner, also offering a cocktail menu, extensive wine list and a delicious Sunday Lunch.  Booking is advised.

Smoking Lobster

Smoking Lobster

Specialising in Pan-Asian cuisine, there are two Smoking Lobster restaurants, one in Cowes and one in Ventnor, as well as a Japanese Inspired Izakaya Bar offering speciality cocktails and Japanese Robata dishes served tapas style. Family run, the Asian fusion style menu is inspired by Chef GC and sister Cinz’s father, who is both Chinese and Italian, and their love of travel – particularly around Asia. Exceptional food, exciting drinks and socialising is at the heart of what Smoking Lobster offers, from delicate sushi starters and zingy lychee Martinis through to impressive platters complete with whole ginger and chilli infused seabass, sticky pork belly and more. Diners can look forward to vibrant and flavourful food in a cool modern setting, both restaurants at the heart of vibrant Island towns. A great choice for date night or catching up with friends, booking is advised. 

Hewitt's Restaurant & Rooms

Hewitt's

Established in 2016, Hewitt's Restaurant has quickly risen to become one of the top dining destinations on the Isle of Wight. On the menu you’ll find a contemporary à la carte selection, ranging from light bites to three-course meals, all prepared with meticulous attention to detail. Housed in a 16th century building in the heart of Newport, Hewitt's combines historical charm with modern design to create an atmospheric dining experience - perfect for Valentine’s, birthdays, anniversaries and more! 

The Coast Bar & Dining Room

The Coast

With stylish décor and soft lighting for the perfect ambience, The Coast combines exceptional food with friendly service to create a comfortable yet elegant dining experience. Situated in historic Cowes High Street, the venue is easily accessed from our Red Jet terminal and even welcomes your four-legged friends, meaning every member of the family can join in the occasion! Their varied and well-executed menu stretches from seafood to wood-fired pizza and everything in between – why not opt for a juicy Cote de Boeuf for the ultimate indulgence? 

For more Island inspiration, see our Explore section. 

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