The culinary scene on Scilly is defined by its geography. On St Mary’s, you have bustling harbour restaurants, while on the “off-islands,” dining is often more rustic and seasonal, revolving around the tide times. Whether you are looking for a wood-fired pizza on a white sand beach or a pint of local ale with the best view in the British Isles, here is our curated guide to eating out on the archipelago.
Our Top Picks
These three spots offer the most memorable dining experiences across the islands.
1. The Ruin Beach Café (Tresco)
Located on the privately owned island of Tresco, The Ruin Beach Café is iconic. It sits right on the edge of the beach at Old Grimsby, looking out towards the Eastern Isles.
- The Vibe: Laid-back Mediterranean chic. It has a large wood-fired oven at its heart and a terrace that feels like you are in Greece rather than the UK.
- The Food: Famous for its wood-fired pizzas and roasted fish. It is the perfect spot for a long, lazy lunch that turns into dinner.
2. Juliet’s Garden (St Mary’s)
Perched on the hill above Hugh Town, Juliet’s Garden offers arguably the most famous view on the main island.
- The Vibe: Rustic and incredibly scenic. The terraced garden looks down over the harbour and the other islands. It is a must-visit for sunset.
- The Food: Fresh seafood, local crab sandwiches, and excellent steaks. It is casual but high-quality, and very popular with locals and visitors alike.
3. The Seven Stones Inn (St Martin’s)
If there is a pub with a better view in the world, we haven’t found it yet. The Seven Stones Inn sits high on the ridge of St Martin’s.
- The Vibe: Magic. You can see the entire archipelago from the drinking terrace. It is a proper island pub-friendly, slightly eccentric, and dog-friendly.
- The Food: Hearty, honest pub food that changes with the seasons. It is the perfect reward after walking across the island’s spine.
Island Institutions
- The Turk’s Head (St Agnes): The most south-westerly pub in the UK. The Turk’s Head is the heart of St Agnes. It is famous for its pasties (the “Turk’s Head Pasty”) and its lively atmosphere when the day-tripper boats arrive.
- Fraggle Rock Bar (Bryher): One of the smallest pubs on the islands. Fraggle Rock is famous for its double-decker crab sandwiches and its location overlooking the Tresco channel. It is unpretentious and full of character.
Hidden Gems
- Longstone Cafe (St Mary’s): Located in the centre of the island, Longstone Cafe is a family-run spot that feels like a secret garden. It is famously the only place on Scilly where you might spot a red squirrel while eating your cream tea.
- St Martin’s Vineyard: Yes, Scilly has its own vineyard. St Martin’s Vineyard offers tastings and self-guided tours. It is a unique spot to enjoy a glass of island wine in the sunshine.
Boating & Logistics
- Supper Boats: One of the unique things about Scilly is the “supper boat.” In the summer, boatmen run evening services between the islands (e.g., St Mary’s to Tresco for The Ruin Beach Café). Check the blackboards on the quay in Hugh Town for times.
- Booking is Essential: On the off-islands (St Agnes, Bryher, St Martin’s, Tresco), options are limited. Always book your table in advance, especially if you are relying on a boat to get you there and back!
Planned your island hopping dinner?
Now it is time to work out how to get between the islands. View our guide to the best things to do on the Isles of Scilly