Best Restaurants in Shetland
Hungry in Shetland? Explore top-rated restaurants with menus, reviews, and local recommendations. Open the free web guide or Evendo app.
The best restaurants in Shetland
- Top rated
- Closest to the centre
- Price level: low to high
- Time to spend: shortest first
- A–Z
18 restaurants
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Fish & chips4.5★886 reviews
Frankie's Fish & Chips
Frankie's Fish & Chips in Brae, Shetland, serves some of the finest fish and chips in the region, with fresh haddock in crispy batter, generous portions of golden chips, and options for dine-in or takeaway. Known for its friendly service, gluten-free accommodations, and vegan choices, it's a must-visit for seafood lovers exploring the rugged Shetland Isles. Popular with locals and tourists, book ahead during peak times for tables.
Price level $$Time to spend 0.5–1.5 hrs
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Cafe4.5★477 reviews
The Dowry
The Dowry is a vibrant café, bar, and restaurant located on Commercial Street in Lerwick, Shetland's capital. Known for its inventive menu that blends local ingredients with contemporary cooking, this quirky establishment serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a warm, welcoming atmosphere. The venue combines casual daytime dining with a lively evening bar scene, making it a popular gathering spot for both locals and visitors exploring the islands.
Mon–Thu 9:30–22:00 · Fri–Sat 9:30–23:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
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Nepalese4.6★305 reviews
Gurkha Kitchen
Gurkha Kitchen is an award-winning Nepalese and Indian restaurant located on North Road in central Lerwick, Shetland. Named Nepalese Restaurant of the Year at the Scottish Restaurant Awards, this family-run establishment serves authentic Himalayan cuisine prepared fresh to order. The menu features traditional Nepali specialties alongside Indian classics, from aromatic biryanis and rich curries to momos and traditional street food. With friendly staff, reasonable pricing, and a commitment to quality ingredients, it has become a beloved dining destination for both locals and visitors to the islands.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–2.5 hrs
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Fish & chips4.5★289 reviews
Fort Cafe & Take Away
Lerwick's premier fish and chips spot serves crispy, fresh-caught seafood battered to perfection alongside golden chips. A local favorite on Commercial Road, this bustling cafe and takeaway offers hearty portions of haggis, fried pizza, and classic British comfort food. Renowned for efficient service and melt-in-your-mouth fish, it's ideal for quick meals with harbor views just steps away.
Price level $Time to spend 15–45 min
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Nepalese4.6★253 reviews
Saffron
Saffron is a well-regarded Nepalese and Indian restaurant located in the heart of Lerwick, Shetland. Known for its flavorful dishes, generous portions, and warm, friendly service, it offers a relaxed dining atmosphere with a menu that showcases authentic South Asian cuisine. Open daily for lunch and dinner, Saffron provides a moderately priced culinary experience that appeals to locals and visitors alike.
Tue–Sun 12:00–14:00, 16:30–22:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–2 hrs
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Chinese4.2★308 reviews
Golden Coach
Golden Coach is a longstanding Chinese restaurant on Lerwick's Commercial Road, offering dine-in and takeaway with classic dishes like chicken balls, hot and sour soup, and vegetarian specials featuring mock meats. Known for generous portions and subtle sauces, it serves pan-Asian fare in a clean, seafront setting near Fort Charlotte. Open daily from noon, it caters to locals and visitors with moderate pricing and tablet-based menus for easy ordering.
Price level $$Time to spend 0.5–1.5 hrs
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British4.8★221 reviews
No 88 Kitchen and Bar
No 88 Kitchen and Bar, located at 88 Commercial Street in Lerwick, Shetland, offers a cozy and vibrant dining experience focused on high-quality local seafood and meats. Known for its fresh, seasonal menu and warm atmosphere, the restaurant highlights Shetland’s renowned seafood including scallops, mussels, and fish and chips, alongside expertly prepared lamb dishes. Its modern decor and attentive service make it a standout spot for both locals and visitors seeking authentic British cuisine with a Shetland twist.
Wed–Sat 11:00–22:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–2.5 hrs
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Restaurant4.4★236 reviews
The New Harbour Cafe
Nestled in Lerwick's heart at 2 Merson Moads, The New Harbour Cafe serves hearty Scottish breakfasts and Shetland specialties like Sassermaet in a cozy, cash-only setting. Open early mornings for quick, homemade meals with friendly service, it's a local favorite for authentic value.
Mon–Sat 7:00–15:00 · Sun 8:00–13:00Price level $Time to spend 0.5–1.5 hrs
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Restaurant4.7★190 reviews
The Olive Tree
The Olive Tree is a welcoming café nestled in Lerwick's Toll Clock Shopping Centre, Shetland. It offers a delightful menu featuring British cuisine, fresh salads, gluten-free options, and a renowned selection of teas. Open daily from morning to mid-afternoon, this café provides a relaxed atmosphere perfect for a casual lunch or afternoon tea while exploring the Shetland Islands.
Mon–Sat 9:00–15:45Price level $$Time to spend 0.5–2 hrs
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Chinese4.3★213 reviews
The Great Wall
The Great Wall is the largest Chinese restaurant in the Shetland Islands, located on Commercial Road in Lerwick. Renowned for its Cantonese cuisine with Hong Kong-style dishes such as shell-on lobster fried noodles, it offers a welcoming atmosphere with accessible, single-level seating. Open daily with moderate pricing, it is a popular spot for locals and visitors seeking flavorful Asian fare in the heart of Shetland’s main town.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–2 hrs
C’est la Vie
C’est la Vie is a charming French restaurant located at 181 Commercial Street in Lerwick, Shetland. Known for its cozy ambiance and authentic Basque-style French cuisine, it offers a unique dining experience in the heart of Shetland. The restaurant is run by a French couple and features a warm, eclectic interior with delicious dishes such as monkfish, scallops, and crème brûlée. Open daily from 10:00 to 21:30, it is a must-visit for lovers of French gastronomy in a relaxed setting.
Mon–Sat 10:00–21:30Price level $$Time to spend 1–2 hrs
The Grand Hotel
Nestled on Lerwick's bustling Commercial Street, The Grand Hotel blends historic charm with modern hospitality in the heart of Shetland's capital. This landmark property offers cozy rooms with harbor views, an acclaimed breakfast, and a lively bar perfect for unwinding after exploring the islands. Despite its dated decor, the exceptional staff and prime location make it a beloved base for travelers seeking authentic Shetland vibes amid peeling paint and steep stairs.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–12 hrs
Téamoré
Téamoré is a charming restaurant and café located at 14 Commercial Road in Lerwick, Shetland. Known for its warm atmosphere and diverse menu featuring local seafood, traditional breakfasts, and Asian-inspired noodle dishes, it offers a delightful dining experience. Open Tuesday to Saturday, Téamoré is a perfect spot for breakfast, lunch, or a sweet treat, reflecting the rich culinary culture of Shetland in a cozy setting.
Tue–Thu 9:00–17:00 · Fri–Sat 9:00–24:00Price level $$Time to spend 0.5–2 hrs
Da Haaf Restaurant
Da Haaf Restaurant in Scalloway, Shetland, offers a cozy dining experience with spectacular views over the harbor and Trondra. Renowned for its fresh, locally sourced seafood dishes like Cullen Skink, homemade scampi, and fish and chips, Da Haaf serves traditional Scottish fare with a focus on quality and local ingredients. Open weekdays for lunch and weekend evenings for dinner, it’s a beloved spot for both locals and visitors seeking authentic Shetland flavors.
Mon–Fri 9:00–15:30 · Sat 17:00–19:30Price level $$Time to spend 1–2 hrs
The Waterfront Bar and Grill
Located on Holmsgarth Road in Lerwick, The Waterfront Bar and Grill offers a modern, informal dining experience featuring Shetland produce, grills, and seafood. Open daily for dinner, it combines a welcoming atmosphere with a diverse menu ranging from surf and turf to classic pub fare, making it a popular spot for locals and visitors seeking hearty meals and friendly service.
Daily 17:00–21:30Price level $$Time to spend 1–2.5 hrs
Da Steak Hoose
Tucked away on Mounthooly Street in Lerwick, Da Steak Hoose is a small, locally loved steakhouse known for its hearty cuts, generous portions, and warm, no-frills atmosphere. Open for dinner only, it focuses on classic steakhouse fare with a Shetland touch, serving juicy steaks, crisp chips, and simple sides in a relaxed setting. It’s a solid choice for meat lovers seeking a satisfying meal in the heart of Shetland’s main town.
Tue–Sat 17:00–20:30Price level $$Time to spend 1.5–2.5 hrs
Hay's Dock By The Dowry
Nestled at historic Hay's Dock in Lerwick, Shetland, Hay's Dock By The Dowry offers a cozy cafe experience with a 4.3-star rating. This moderate-priced spot serves light meals and drinks amid maritime heritage, open weekdays from 10:30am to 4pm. Perfect for casual bites with dockside views of seals and seabirds.
Tue–Sat 10:30–16:00Price level $$Time to spend 0.5–1.5 hrs
The Bay Brasserie
The Bay Brasserie is a well-regarded restaurant located within the Lerwick Hotel in Shetland, offering a diverse menu with fresh, locally inspired dishes. It boasts stunning views over Lerwick Bay, providing a delightful dining atmosphere with spacious seating and attentive service. This eatery blends comfort and scenic charm, making it a favored spot for both visitors and locals seeking quality meals in a relaxed setting.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–2 hrs
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