Best Restaurants in Orkney
Hungry in Orkney? Explore top-rated restaurants with menus, reviews, and local recommendations. Open the free web guide or Evendo app.
The best restaurants in Orkney
- Top rated
- Closest to the centre
- Price level: low to high
- Time to spend: shortest first
- A–Z
27 restaurants
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Inn4.3★715 reviews
Ferry Inn Stromness
The Ferry Inn Stromness is a charming, traditional inn located at 10 John Street, Stromness, right on the harbour in Orkney. Offering cozy accommodation, a welcoming bar, and a restaurant known for fresh local seafood and hearty Scottish fare, it serves as a popular stopover for ferry travelers. The inn combines rustic comfort with friendly service, making it an ideal base to explore Stromness and the Orkney Islands.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
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Restaurant4.5★617 reviews
Helgi's
Helgi's is a lively gastropub and restaurant located at 14 Harbour Street in Kirkwall, Orkney. Known for its cozy interiors inspired by Viking heritage, it offers a diverse menu featuring locally sourced seafood, classic comfort dishes, and an extensive selection of local ales, whiskies, and cocktails. With a warm atmosphere, harbour views from the upstairs dining area, and a strong community vibe including quiz nights and live music, Helgi's is a must-visit for both casual drinks and hearty meals.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
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Italian4.3★637 reviews
Lucano
Lucano is a warmly welcoming Italian restaurant and pizzeria located at 31 Victoria Street in Kirkwall, Orkney. Known for its fresh, delicious dishes and generous portions, Lucano offers a cozy atmosphere with attentive service and moderate prices. Open daily from early morning to evening, it’s a favored spot for both locals and visitors seeking classic Italian flavors in a relaxed setting.
Daily 7:30–21:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–2.5 hrs
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Seafood4.7★374 reviews
The Murray Arms Hotel & Seafood Restaurant
Nestled in the charming village of St Margaret's Hope on Orkney's South Ronaldsay, The Murray Arms Hotel & Seafood Restaurant offers a welcoming blend of historic charm and modern comfort. Renowned for its fresh, locally sourced seafood and warm, pet-friendly atmosphere, this 3-star hotel features cozy rooms, a lively bar, and a seafood restaurant celebrated for its quality and service. Ideal for travelers seeking authentic Orcadian hospitality and culinary delights.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
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Hotel4.7★310 reviews
The Sands Hotel, Orkney
The Sands Hotel is a charming 4-star coastal retreat located on the island of Burray in Orkney. Renowned for its warm hospitality, cosy nautical-themed bar, and excellent restaurant serving hearty local cuisine, it offers comfortable rooms with stunning sea views. This peaceful hotel is an ideal base for exploring Orkney’s natural beauty and historic sites, combining modern comforts with a welcoming atmosphere.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
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British4.8★271 reviews
The Foveran
The Foveran is a distinguished British restaurant with rooms located in Kirkwall, Orkney, offering a blend of relaxed dining and comfortable accommodation. Set amidst open countryside, it boasts stunning panoramic views and a unique artistic ambiance. Renowned for its superb local produce and warm hospitality, The Foveran provides an intimate and memorable experience for visitors seeking both fine food and tranquil surroundings.
Mon–Sat 18:00–20:00Price level $$$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
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Restaurant4.2★360 reviews
Julia's Cafe Bistro
Julia's Cafe Bistro is a cozy and popular breakfast and lunch spot in Stromness, Orkney. Known for its freshly prepared filled rolls including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, it offers a welcoming atmosphere with friendly service. Open daily until mid-afternoon, it is a convenient place to enjoy traditional Scottish cafe fare with a modern twist in a relaxed setting.
Mon–Sat 9:30–16:30 · Sun 10:00–16:30Price level $$Time to spend 0.5–2 hrs
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Fish and chips4.3★327 reviews
Happy Haddock
The Happy Haddock, located at 65 Junction Rd in Kirkwall, Orkney, is a popular and inexpensive fish and chips restaurant known for its generous portions, friendly atmosphere, and classic British fast food. Open daily with lunch and evening service, it offers a casual dining experience with a focus on quality seafood, especially haddock, making it a top choice for locals and visitors alike.
Mon–Sat 11:30–14:00, 16:00–21:30 · Sun 16:00–21:30Price level $Time to spend 0.5–1.5 hrs
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Chinese4.2★307 reviews
Empire Chinese Restaurant
A well-regarded Chinese restaurant in central Kirkwall, serving generous portions of classic and authentic dishes in a comfortable, family-friendly setting. Known for its quick service, tasty food, and convenient takeaway option, it’s a solid choice for lunch or dinner after exploring Orkney’s historic sites.
Price level $$Time to spend 0.5–1.5 hrs
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Restaurant4.6★249 reviews
The Storehouse Restaurant with Rooms
The Storehouse Restaurant with Rooms is a charming boutique hotel and acclaimed dining venue located in the heart of Kirkwall, Orkney. Housed in a beautifully restored historic building, it offers eight uniquely styled rooms with cozy, low-beamed ceilings and contemporary decor. The restaurant is celebrated for its superb use of local ingredients, including fresh seafood and inventive non-alcoholic cocktails, making it a top choice for food lovers seeking an intimate and authentic Orkney experience.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Trenabies Cafe Bistro
Trenabies Cafe Bistro, located at 16 Albert Street in Kirkwall, Orkney, is a welcoming cafe and bistro known for its great food and friendly staff. Offering a moderate price range, it serves breakfast and bistro-style meals in a relaxed atmosphere, making it a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. Open Monday through Saturday, it provides a cozy setting to enjoy traditional and contemporary dishes with a focus on quality and comfort.
Mon–Sat 8:30–16:30 · Sun 11:00–15:00Price level $$Time to spend 0.5–2 hrs
Leigh's Real Taste of Orkney
Leigh's Real Taste of Orkney is a popular takeaway snack van located in the car park at Maitland Place, Finstown. Renowned for its high-quality, locally sourced ingredients, it offers a variety of hot and cold filled rolls, specialty burgers, fresh coffee, and sweet treats. Open Tuesday to Saturday mornings and Sunday late mornings, Leigh's prides itself on generous portions and exceptional customer service, making it a beloved spot for both locals and visitors.
Fri–Sat 9:00–14:30 · Sun 10:30–14:30Price level $Time to spend 0.5–1.5 hrs
The Orkney Hotel
Situated on Victoria Street in the heart of Kirkwall, The Orkney Hotel is a traditional 17th-century establishment offering a blend of historic charm and modern comfort. Known for its friendly staff, cosy rooms, and excellent bar and restaurant, it provides guests with a welcoming base to explore Orkney’s capital. While some areas show signs of wear, the hotel’s sea views, central location, and warm hospitality make it a notable choice for visitors seeking authentic Orcadian experiences.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Busters Diner
Busters Diner in Kirkwall offers a welcoming American-style dining experience with a varied menu blending hearty comfort food and British influences. Known for its reasonable prices and local ingredients, it caters to families and casual diners seeking classic dishes and traditional Orkney beers in a relaxed setting.
Price level $$Time to spend 0.5–1.5 hrs
Skerries Bistro
Skerries Bistro is a charming seafood restaurant located in Saint Margaret's Hope, South Ronaldsay, Orkney Islands. Renowned for its fresh local shellfish and fish, the bistro offers stunning views across the Pentland Firth from a bespoke glass building near the cliffs. With a focus on seasonal ingredients and simple, elegant preparation, it provides a cozy, welcoming atmosphere ideal for enjoying Orkney’s culinary treasures.
Mon–Tue 11:00–16:00 · Sat–Sun 11:00–16:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–2.5 hrs
The Shore
The Shore is a waterfront hotel in Kirkwall, Orkney, offering modern rooms with contemporary amenities and a well-regarded restaurant. Located on Shore Street in the heart of the town center, it provides easy access to Kirkwall's harbor, local pubs, and dining venues. The hotel features clean, comfortable accommodations with en-suite bathrooms, a full breakfast service, and a bar lounge. Its sister property arrangement with the Kirkwall Hotel streamlines check-in procedures while maintaining independent operations.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Emily’s
Emily’s Tea Room, nestled in the Mill House at Lyness near Stromness, Orkney, offers a charming and quirky café experience known for its homemade treats and warm hospitality. Popular for freshly baked scones and local ingredients, it provides a welcoming spot close to the ferry terminal, perfect for relaxing after exploring the Orkney Islands.
Tue–Sat 10:30–20:00Price level $Time to spend 0.5–1.5 hrs
Eviedale Bistro & Bakehouse
Orkney's pioneering sourdough bakery and wood-fired pizza restaurant, nestled in the village of Evie on the West Mainland. This intimate bistro combines artisanal baking with contemporary dining, serving exceptional sourdough pizzas, freshly baked pastries, and traditional bere-barley bread. With its cosy interior, friendly atmosphere, and commitment to quality ingredients, Eviedale has become a beloved local destination and a culinary highlight for visitors exploring Orkney's islands.
Thu–Sat 17:00–20:30Price level $$Time to spend 1–2.5 hrs
Twenty One
Located at 8 Laing Street in Kirkwall, Twenty One is a vibrant restaurant and cocktail bar known for its unique and flavorful tapas plates and expertly crafted cocktails. With a welcoming atmosphere and a focus on quality, it offers a modern dining experience in the heart of Orkney’s capital. Open from late morning to late evening on weekdays, it is a popular spot for both locals and visitors seeking distinctive small plates and drinks.
Wed–Thu 11:00–23:00 · Fri–Sat 11:00–24:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–2.5 hrs
Dil Se Restaurant
Dil Se Restaurant in Kirkwall offers a vibrant Indian dining experience featuring a diverse menu inspired by North Indian and Bangladeshi cuisines. Located at 7 Bridge Street, this award-winning eatery is known for its thoughtfully prepared dishes using locally sourced produce, including vegetarian and vegan options. Open daily for lunch and dinner, Dil Se combines warm hospitality with rich flavors in a welcoming setting.
Daily 12:00–14:00, 17:00–23:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–2 hrs
The Hamnavoe Restaurant
The Hamnavoe Restaurant in Stromness offers an intimate dining experience with a modern, seasonal menu that creatively fuses European and Asian flavors, highlighting Orkney’s renowned seafood and meat. Set in one of Stromness’s oldest stone buildings from the late 18th century, the cozy venue features just nine tables and a welcoming open fire, complemented by original artworks and a carefully curated wine list exclusive to the islands.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–2.5 hrs
Pomona Cafe
Pomona Cafe is a welcoming, inexpensive breakfast and cafe venue located at 9 Albert St in Kirkwall, Orkney Islands. Known for its warm service, hearty portions, and fresh, tasty food, it offers a traditional, down-to-earth atmosphere loved by locals and visitors alike. Open daily from 8am to 5pm, Pomona Cafe serves a variety of breakfast options, including meat and vegetarian dishes, in a relaxed setting that captures the charm of Orkney’s small-town life.
Mon–Sat 8:00–17:00Price level $Time to spend 0.5–1.5 hrs
Adam's Place
Adam's Place is a well-regarded seafood restaurant located at 20 Ferry Road in Stromness, Orkney. Known for its fresh local seafood and a great wine list, it offers a cozy dining experience with a focus on quality ingredients sourced from nearby waters. The restaurant operates mainly during lunch and early evening hours and is popular among locals and visitors alike.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–2 hrs
The Skerries Restaurant
Nestled on the serene shores of Loch of Harray in Orkney, The Skerries Restaurant offers a refined dining experience featuring fresh local seafood and stunning loch views. Known for its calm, professional service and generous portions, this moderate-priced restaurant is a favored spot for visitors seeking quality cuisine in a tranquil natural setting.
Daily 17:00–20:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–2.5 hrs
The Smithy Cafe
Tucked in the heart of Balfour on Orkney’s Shapinsay, The Smithy is a community-run cafe and restaurant housed in a historic smithy building. It serves hearty Orkney fare, local drinks, and warm hospitality in a rustic, welcoming space. Open seasonally, it’s a social hub for islanders and a charming stop for visitors exploring the island’s heritage and coastline. The relaxed atmosphere, local art, and occasional evening bar make it more than just a meal stop.
Price level $Time to spend 0.5–2 hrs
Sakura Kitchen
Sakura Kitchen is an authentic Japanese takeaway in Kirkwall, Orkney, specializing in freshly prepared traditional dishes. Located on Laverock Road, this hidden gem offers sushi rolls, sashimi, bento boxes, katsu curry, karaage chicken, and gyoza, all crafted with quality ingredients. The menu changes weekly, and customers can sign up for email updates to receive special discount codes. Known for its commitment to authentic flavors and fresh preparation, Sakura Kitchen delivers a genuine taste of Japan to Scotland's northern islands.
Price level $$Time to spend 15–45 min
Badly Drawn Cat
A quirky art café and gallery in Kirkwall's heart, Badly Drawn Cat blends creative expression with plant-based cuisine. Located on Albert Street, this intimate venue showcases local artwork while serving vegan-friendly fare in a warm, eclectic atmosphere. Perfect for art lovers, solo travelers, and anyone seeking a unique cultural experience in Orkney's charming capital.
Price level $Time to spend 0.5–2.5 hrs
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