Twenty One Travel Guide
Free Guide: A vibrant Kirkwall hotspot serving unique tapas and expertly crafted cocktails in a stylish, welcoming setting.
A brief summary of Twenty One
A vibrant Kirkwall hotspot serving unique tapas and expertly crafted cocktails in a stylish, welcoming setting.
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.
On-site amenities
Drink options
Food options
Seating areas
Trash bins
Information boards
Opening hours
- MonClosed
- TueClosed
- Wed11 am–11 pm
- Thu11 am–11 pm
- Fri11 am–12 am
- Sat11 am–12 am
- SunClosed
Opening hours as listed on the venue’s Google Business Profile. Hours can change for services and special events, so check with the venue before you go.
- Address
- 8 Laing St, Kirkwall KW15 1NW
Getting there
Bus
Taxi
Walking
Discover more about Twenty One
A Modern Culinary Gem in Kirkwall’s Heart
Twenty One stands out as a contemporary dining destination nestled in the bustling center of Kirkwall, Orkney. Situated on Laing Street, this restaurant and cocktail bar combines a relaxed yet stylish ambiance with a menu that celebrates bold flavors and creative combinations. Its focus on tapas-style dishes allows guests to sample a variety of tastes in one sitting, making it ideal for social dining and sharing.
Distinctive Tapas and Craft Cocktails
The kitchen at Twenty One is renowned for its inventive tapas plates, each crafted with attention to detail and a flair for unique flavor profiles. Patrons often praise the originality and tastiness of the offerings, which pair perfectly with the bar’s extensive cocktail list. The cocktails are carefully mixed, showcasing both classic and innovative recipes, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Atmosphere and Experience
The venue offers a lively yet comfortable setting, balancing an energetic vibe with welcoming service. The interior design complements the culinary creativity, making it a great spot for casual evenings or special occasions. The absence of background musak contributes to a pleasant environment where conversation and enjoyment of food and drink take center stage.
Operating Hours and Accessibility
Twenty One operates primarily from Wednesday through Saturday, opening at 11 AM and closing around 11 PM or midnight, catering to lunch, dinner, and late-night guests. Its central location in Kirkwall makes it easily accessible on foot from many nearby accommodations and attractions, encouraging visitors to explore the town’s vibrant food scene.
Local Popularity and Recognition
Locally claimed and well-reviewed, Twenty One has garnered a strong reputation among residents and tourists alike. Its consistent quality and distinctive menu have made it a favored destination for those seeking a taste of modern Orkney dining. The venue’s popularity is reflected in numerous photos and positive feedback highlighting the unique cocktails and flavorful tapas.
Complementing Kirkwall’s Culinary Landscape
As part of Kirkwall’s diverse dining options, Twenty One adds a contemporary flair to the town’s culinary offerings. It complements traditional Scottish fare found elsewhere with a more international and inventive approach, appealing to a broad range of palates. Its presence enriches the local food culture and provides a memorable experience for visitors exploring Orkney’s capital.
Evendo Review Centre
Guest reviews
Best time to go
Quietest: Jan, Feb & Dec · before 10am or from 11pm
Busy times are Evendo estimates for a typical year, to help you plan. Actual crowds vary with events, school holidays and the weather.
Explore Twenty One on the map
A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Twenty One, mapped for you.
Get your free copy of our complete guide to Twenty One, delivered straight to you.
Everything on this page, from opening hours and how to get there to Eve’s tips and the best time to go, in one PDF you can read offline, print or share.
Already have an account? Sign in
Your Twenty One guide is ready.
We'll send it to · Not you? Sign out

Getting your guide ready…
We are putting together a fresh copy of the Twenty One guide. This can take up to a minute.
This can take a few moments. If your browser asks, choose Allow so the download can start. You'll find the guide in your Downloads folder.
Nothing happened? Download it again
Sorry, the guide is taking longer than usual. Please try again in a minute, or get it by email instead.
Other nearby places you may find interesting
The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.
-
The Storehouse Restaurant with Rooms A boutique dining and accommodation gem in Kirkwall blending historic charm with world-class local cuisine and cozy rooms. -
Lucano Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Kirkwall at Lucano, a beloved local restaurant and pizzeria. -
The Foveran A family-run British restaurant with rooms offering exquisite local cuisine and stunning countryside views in Kirkwall, Orkney. -
Adam's Place Fresh local seafood and an acclaimed wine list await you at Adam's Place, a cozy culinary highlight on Stromness’s waterfront. -
The Skerries Restaurant Experience exquisite local seafood with breathtaking views at The Skerries Restaurant by Loch of Harray in Orkney’s tranquil natural setting.
Swipe for more places
More to explore near Twenty One
Do you manage this location?
Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery.
Explore more

Explore more of Orkney
Discover Orkney: A magical blend of ancient history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant local culture in Scotland's enchanting archipelago.
Explore Orkney
Explore more of United Kingdom
Discover the United Kingdom: A blend of rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cities, offering a unique travel experience for every visitor.
Explore United Kingdom