Food is life, so they say and there's nothing better than finding a new favourite little eatery, from tiny little bakeries to Michelin restaurants, everyone's got a personal preference.
Our island team have lived and worked here for many years and have some personal recommendations to share with you, but of course you'll want to find your own too.
The beauty of a self catering holiday on the Isle of Wight is you have the choice. Stock up on groceries and local deli delights for slow-roasting, wine-sipping, tv-watching feast nights, or get out and about on the island discovering how local cooks can create fantastic flavours with their fresh produce.
There is all sorts on the island to cater for many a taste and appetite, with a plethora of island producers providing anything from cheese to asparagus, wine, ale and of course seafood. Winkle out a few to try or cheat with our little list of a few best places to eat on the Isle of Wight:
Restaurants:
The George, Yarmouth
It's an elegant, 17th Century town house overlooking the harbour, with fine dining or brasserie on offer, with a Michelin starred chef, Robert Thompson.
The Priory Bay Hotel, Seaview
A seaside country house hotel set in 60 acres of grounds looking out to sea. This is the place for fine dining and fancy surroundings. Relax and be spoiled.
The Little Gloster, Gurnard
They close for the winter but the rest of the year serve high quality seasonal food from local produce with a Scandinavian influence.
The Boathouse Seafood Restaurant, Steephill Cove
With direct links to the fishermen landing catches in the cove, this small, rustic seafood restaurant is open from May to September and booking is essential.
Dan's Kitchen, St Helens
There's a bit of hype around this place, so make sure to book ahead at this award winning bistro restaurant serving local produce from a unique menu on the pretty village green.
Olivo Restaurant, Ryde and Newport
Casual dining for informal get togethers or cosy romantic nights for couples. serving Italian & Mediterranean food in two locations. Authentic Mediterranean products complement fresh island produce.
The Pond Cafe, Bonchurch
Don't be put off by the name, this Bistro cafe offers fine dining food with an Italian influence and local produce.
The Baywatch Cafe, St Helens
It's the location for this one, a beachfront cafe/bistro open between March and October, with a sun terrace to take in the views.
Pub grub:
The Taverners, Godshill
A real country pub, popular with locals as well as visitors, serving fantastic locally produced food from their a la carte restaurant.
The Wight Mouse Inn, Chale
Family friendly coaching inn overlooking Chale Bay with views of The Needles for you and a play area for the children.
The Folly, Whippingham
An historical, rustic pub on the banks of the River Medina (you can get a water taxi!)
The Boathouse, Seaview
Gastro-pub with favourable prices by the beach at Springvale/Puckpool park. Have a play then go eat!
The New Inn, Shalfleet
It used to be a fishermen's haunt, but this old 1743 building with original low beams, flagstones and inglenooks is now an award winning pub-fayre, serving good traditional food.
The Red Lion, Freshwater
A well-presented, traditional country village pub in a quiet location with a cosy bar and good beer.
