The Hamnavoe Restaurant, Stromness

4.6 (91)

A cozy, historic Stromness restaurant serving innovative seasonal dishes blending Orkney seafood with European and Asian flavors.

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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.

A brief summary to The Hamnavoe Restaurant

35 Graham Pl, Stromness, KW16 3BY, GB
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Mid ranged
Indoor
Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

Local tips

Book well in advance due to limited seating of only nine tables.
Try the seafood dishes to experience Orkney’s renowned local produce.
Enjoy the unique art collection featuring works by Turner and Blake.
Ask the sommelier for wine pairings exclusive to the islands.

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Getting There

Bus

Take the local bus service from Kirkwall to Stromness, which takes approximately 40 to 50 minutes. Buses run several times daily but check schedules in advance as frequency varies. From the Stromness bus stop, it is a 10-minute walk to the restaurant. Tickets cost around £5-£8 one way.
Car

Driving from Kirkwall to Stromness takes about 30 minutes via the A965 road. Parking is available nearby but limited, so early arrival is recommended. There is no parking directly at the restaurant due to its historic location. Fuel costs vary, expect around £5-£7 for the trip.
Ferry and Taxi

If arriving via ferry at Stromness, a taxi ride to the restaurant takes about 5 minutes. Taxi fares typically range from £5 to £10. This option is convenient for visitors coming from mainland Scotland or other islands.

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Discover more about The Hamnavoe Restaurant

A Historic Setting in the Heart of Stromness

Nestled down a charming old flagstone lane just beyond Stromness’s main street, The Hamnavoe Restaurant occupies one of the town’s oldest stone buildings, dating back to the late 18th century. The name “Hamnavoe” means “safe harbour” in Old Norse, reflecting the town’s maritime heritage and the restaurant’s welcoming atmosphere. This historic venue has long been a beloved culinary destination in Orkney, recently revitalized under new management since June 2022.

Innovative Cuisine with Local Roots

Executive Chef Eugene Gills leads the kitchen with a vibrant fusion of European and Asian cuisines, strongly influenced by his Korean heritage. The menu is seasonal and a la carte, showcasing Orkney’s world-class seafood and meat through creative, contemporary dishes. Frequent changes ensure the freshest ingredients are always featured. The restaurant also caters thoughtfully to vegetarian and vegan diners, ensuring a diverse and inclusive menu.

An Intimate and Artistic Ambience

With only nine tables, The Hamnavoe offers a cozy, intimate dining environment warmed by an open fire during colder months. Guests can enjoy the unique opportunity to view original artworks by Turner and Blake, adding a cultural richness to the experience. The atmosphere is relaxed yet refined, deliberately avoiding the formality often associated with fine dining.

Curated Wine Selection and Service

The wine list is exclusive to Orkney, carefully selected by an experienced sommelier to complement the innovative menu. Although small, it emphasizes quality over quantity, enhancing the dining experience with thoughtful pairings. The attentive service matches the restaurant’s ethos of delivering an exceptional yet unpretentious culinary journey.

Commitment to Local Produce and Sustainability

The Hamnavoe’s dedication to using local, seasonal produce supports Orkney’s agricultural and fishing communities. This commitment ensures freshness and sustainability while celebrating the island’s rich natural bounty. The restaurant’s approach aligns with modern culinary values that prioritize environmental responsibility and community engagement.

A Unique Destination for Food Lovers

Whether seeking a special night out or a taste of Orkney’s finest ingredients presented with innovative flair, The Hamnavoe Restaurant offers a memorable experience. Its blend of historic charm, artistic touches, and culinary creativity makes it a standout venue in Stromness’s dining scene.