Places to Eat on Islay
Places to eat, pubs and cafés across the Isle of Islay
Port Ellen
7 venuesArdbeg House
Boutique hotel restaurant beside Islay's most iconic distillery. Award-winning dining featuring Islay lamb, local seafood and seasonal produce.
Places to EatSeaSalt Bistro
Contemporary cuisine served in an open kitchen. Fresh pizza, pasta, seafood and steaks, with Islay-landed lobster, langoustines and local Argyll beef. Popular takeaway too.
Places to EatThe Balaclava Byre
Highly reviewed restaurant serving Islay lamb, venison and beef with daily specials from the finest local ingredients. Also home to a farm shop with quality local produce.
Pub & BarThe Ardview Inn
A friendly local pub in Port Ellen, popular with islanders and visitors alike. A great spot for a pint and a warm welcome after exploring the distillery coast.
CaféLittle Charlotte's Café
A charming little café in Port Ellen serving freshly made sandwiches, soups, home bakes and great coffee. A lovely spot to relax and refuel while exploring the south of Islay.
CaféThe Brothy
A cosy, welcoming spot serving hearty soups, broths and light bites using locally sourced Islay ingredients. Perfect for a warming bowl after exploring the distillery coast.
CaféArdbeg Old Kiln Café
The Old Kiln Café at Ardbeg serves fresh, locally sourced food with a smoky twist. Stunning coastal distillery setting. Perfect for lunch after a distillery tour.
Bowmore
6 venues
Places to EatThe Lochside
Spectacular loch views and award-winning seasonal menus featuring the freshest Islay seafood, local meat and homemade bread. Dog-friendly with gluten-free and vegan options.
Places to EatThe Harbour Inn
Award-winning restaurant overlooking Bowmore harbour. Inspired seasonal menus with exceptional locally-caught fish, shellfish and Islay produce.
Peatzeria
Islay's beloved pizza restaurant — from classic margherita to Islay lobster and scallop pizzas. Also serves pasta, risotto and other Italian favourites. Pet-friendly outdoor area.
Places to EatBowmore Hotel Restaurant
Excellent home-cooked food using Islay beef, lamb and fresh seafood, served in a beautifully appointed dining room. Friendly staff happy to cater for specific dietary needs.
Taj Mahal
Islay's beloved Indian restaurant with rave reviews for its many flavours and delicious dishes. Friendly, knowledgeable staff will help you navigate the menu.
CaféBowmore Coffee Shop
A cosy spot in the heart of Bowmore for freshly made sandwiches, home bakes and excellent coffee.
Bridgend
2 venues
Places to EatBridgend Hotel
At the Heart of Islay with over 150 years of experience. Local produce including garden vegetables, game from Islay Estates, beef, lamb, shellfish and oysters.
Places to EatIslay House Hotel Restaurant
Exceptional dining with great ambience and perfect views. Delicious menus tailored to different tastes using local produce. Family-friendly with a warm welcome.
Port Charlotte
3 venues
Pub & BarPort Charlotte Hotel
Charming Victorian hotel bar serving real ales, local whiskies and hearty pub food. Beautiful sea views and award-winning restaurant using local venison, lamb, shellfish and game.
Pub & BarLochindaal Hotel Bar
Cosy hotel bar and restaurant in Port Charlotte serving local fresh food. Speciality seafood platter. Sister venue to the Lochindaal Seafood Kitchen nearby.
CaféLochindaal Seafood Kitchen
Fresh, local seafood with uninterrupted sea views of Loch Indaal and the lighthouse. Seating outside and in, log burner for cooler days, gourmet coffee and free WiFi.
Bruichladdich
3 venuesIslay Oyster Shed
Housed in a converted barn, this acclaimed seafood spot specialises in freshly caught Islay oysters, langoustines and shellfish. 4.8★ rated with 153 reviews — a must-visit for seafood lovers.
Pub & BarBruichladdich Distillery Bar
The Wee Distillery shop and tasting bar at Bruichladdich. Sample rare expressions and enjoy the Rhinns peninsula views.
CaféBruichladdich Mini Market
Known locally as 'Debbie's', this beloved village spot serves specialty coffee, fresh cakes and sandwiches — perfect for a casual bite or takeaway. A true community favourite.
Ballygrant
1 venue
Pub & BarThe Ballygrant Inn
Traditional island pub with an excellent reputation for high quality homemade food. Islay beef, lamb, venison and local scallops, crab, lobster and langoustine. No frozen food.
Port Askaig
1 venue
Places to EatPort Askaig Hotel – Starboard Restaurant
Picturesque shoreside inn with the Starboard Restaurant open all year. Local Islay meat and daily catch seafood, from light snacks to lobster lunches. Bistro-style dining.
Kilchoman
1 venueKilchoman Distillery Café
Farm distillery café serving homemade food using produce from the surrounding farm. A tranquil spot on the west coast of Islay after exploring Machir Bay.