Nestled in the island’s sunnier south, Ventnor is not just known for its unique microclimate and artsy charm. It’s fast becoming the go-to destination for food lovers seeking exceptional, locally inspired cuisine in stunning coastal settings.
The Pinnacle of Fine Dining: The Geranium at The Royal
At the heart of Ventnor’s culinary scene and arguably the south’s crowning gastronomic jewel, is The Royal Hotel’s Geranium Restaurant.
Boasting 2 AA Rosettes for over 30 consecutive years, it continues to stand above the rest with its elegant, modern British menu and flawless service.
In 2024, The Geranium was awarded the AA’s 5-star score for Service and Hospitality, cementing its place as a refined, unforgettable experience.
The Royal has been named Restaurant of the Year at the Beautiful South Awards for four years running. A testament to its timeless elegance and reputation as one of the finest dining destinations on the south coast of England.
Mediterranean Magic with a Personal Twist: Stripped Brasserie
Stripped Brasserie is a family-run charmer that serves vibrant Mediterranean fare infused with touches of Romanian heritage. Since opening in 2024, husband-and-wife team Ramona and Stefan Dobre have transformed the former Midland Bank into a welcoming brasserie filled with warmth and authenticity.
Their menu is rich with thoughtful details, from rustic lamb chops to creative starters, and each dish bursts with flavour. Patrons particularly praise the lamb chops as “big, juicy, succulent, and perfectly cooked,” and rave about starters like Camembert flatbread topped with honey-roasted walnuts and crispy bacon.
Pan-Asian Elegance with a View: Smoking Lobster
For a fusion of flavours and sea views, the Smoking Lobster delivers. This sleek pan‑Asian restaurant, awarded 2 AA Rosettes, sources its lobster and line‑caught sea bass fresh from local fishermen, ensuring every dish reflects the island’s bounty. The setting overlooking Ventnor Bay offers more than a meal, it’s a full sensory experience.
Creative Fusion in the Heart of Ventnor: True Food Kitchen
The True Food Kitchen offers an eclectic and buzzy counterpoint, a fusion of Korean, Japanese, and Thai influences presented in a cozy, stylish atmosphere. Explore local ingredients with maximalist flavours in a setting that marries casual comfort with culinary artistry.
Heart & Harbour: The Spyglass Inn
With its cosy interior, nautical décor, and front-row seat to the sea, The Spyglass Inn blends traditional pub charm with exceptional local fare. Celebrated for its friendly service, real ales, and freshly caught seafood specials, it regularly draws applause from guests for both its food and ambiance. Originally built as The Royal Hotel's seafront bathhouse, it is only a short walk from the hotel.
A Food Blogger’s Dream: Terrace Rooms & Wine
The Terrace Rooms & Wine embraces Ventnor’s food scene and elevates it. This Italianate villa offers nightly wine tastings from a curated 900-bottle cellar, charcuterie and cheese boards, and Friday suppers by Tom Fahey, former restaurant critic turned chef, who uses mostly island-sourced produce.
Bright and Casual: Cantina
Looking for a relaxed but flavourful bite? Cantina, on High Street, brings a bright, open‑plan café vibe to Ventnor. From handcrafted cocktails to home‑cooked favourites, it’s a versatile choice whether you’re breakfasting, brunching, or dinnering Cantina. Locals tip: it's especially beloved for brunch, but book ahead, as spots fill up fast.
Ventnor’s reputation as a culinary destination took off with The Royal's 2AA Rosette fine dining experience in 1994, a turning point that inspired a flourishing of innovative eateries and raised the bar for island dining.
Today, chefs and culinary entrepreneurs, many returning for the island’s quality of life, bring fresh ideas, local ingredients, and an ambition that elevates Ventnor's foodie status.
Ventnor serves culinary experiences as vivid as its sunsets. Whether your taste leans toward refined modern British, inventive fusion, or hearty pub fare by the waves, there’s a story, and a flavour for every moment.
Come for the sunshine (Ventnor is among the sunniest towns in the UK ), stay for the food and let Ventnor surprise and delight every step of the way.
If your preferred dates show as unavailable online, please call our Reservations Team on 01983 852186, who will be happy to assist with your enquiry.
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