Here is our ultimate guide to Whitby restaurants. Fish and chips with pier views, crisp wood-fired pizza, creamy pasta dishes, and the freshest seafood you can imagine.
Please note: These restaurants are not listed in any particular order!
One of our favourite things about Whitby is the variety of great restaurants, some famous worldwide. Whitby has a wide variety of restaurants, and it’s almost impossible to pick a favourite! Here is our ultimate guide to Whitby restaurants.
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Harry’s Lounge Bar and Brasserie
Harry’s is a contemporary lounge bar located on Pier Road in Whitby. It’s a great place to visit for breakfast, lunch beside the harbour, or an evening meal.
The menu has many options, from classic fish and chips or scampi and fries to Jamaican jerk chicken and seafood linguine. We love the sharing boards here if you visit with a group; they have seafood, meat and veggie options.
Harry’s has a very well-stocked bar where you can enjoy your favourite hot or cold drinks. The cocktails are fantastic. The outdoor seating is lovely and thoughtfully equipped with heaters and blankets.
You can even stay overnight here; you will find three luxurious rooms with stunning views of Whitby Harbour.
Read our Harry’s Lounge Bar and Brasserie review.
Find further information here.
10-11 Pier Rd, Whitby YO21 3PU
Abbey Wharf
Abbey Wharf is an absolute go-to for us when we have dogs or children with us. The food is fantastic, and the menu has so much variety that you can easily please everyone. Also, you can pull your pint here, which is a fun novelty!
Abbey Wharf offers fantastic views of the harbour in this stunning panoramic restaurant. They serve various delicious seafood, steaks, salads and other dishes alongside vegetarian options.
They often feature live music or a DJ, especially during busy periods and weekends. We love visiting this restaurant with anyone we visit Whitby with.
Find further information here.
Market Pl, Whitby YO22 4DD
The Fisherman’s Wife
If you’re looking for a restaurant in Whitby with sea views, we reckon The Fisherman’s Wife offers the best view.
The restaurant serves traditional fish and chips along with an extensive seafood menu, including some mouth-watering shellfish dishes. All ingredients are locally sourced wherever possible, and the friendly staff is always happy to assist you with any meal selections or dietary requirements.
The location of The Fisherman’s Wife couldn’t be better, just a short walk down through the Whale Bone Arch from the bed and breakfasts and hotels on the West Cliff.
Market Pl, Whitby YO22 4DD
Magpie Cafe
When you think of Whitby fish and chips, you will probably think of the Magpie Cafe! It has developed quite a strong reputation over the years. It has become one of the best places for fish and chips in the Whitby area. Think big queues in the summer lining the street! People travel from all over the world to visit this spot.
Their seafood chowder and the more traditional haddock or cod and chips are some of their most popular dishes, which are very popular throughout the year. However, their menu is huge! We recommend the generous portions of the mussels and lemon sole. They also cater to people with a smaller appetite and offer smaller fish portions
It’s worth the queuing to visit this iconic spot and make memories with your family.
Find further information here.
14 Pier Rd, Whitby YO21 3PU
Pescado Lounge
One of Whitby’s newer spots, Pescado Lounge, is already receiving brilliant reviews. It is located at Dock End, where the Star Inn The Harbour was previously. We adore this restaurant chain. It’s bright and spacious and very reasonably priced.
Children and dogs are more than welcome here. The menu includes options for kids, vegans, and gluten-free diets. Our favourite brunch option is the Lounge Eggs with bacon, spinach, and mushrooms. It’s delicious! They also have gorgeous tapas options and a range of main meals.
Pescado Lounge takes food seriously and uses only the freshest ingredients
Dock End, Whitby YO21 1YN
The Stables
Nestled in the heart of the North York Moors, this is a fabulous wedding venue with an award-winning restaurant and luxury accommodation.
The Stables pride themselves on freshly prepared homemade food and offer various seasonal dishes. A team of highly experienced chefs creates all meals using locally supplied quality produce. It’s all served in a rustic setting with exposed beams and flagstone floors. The garden room, complete with its own log burner, offers views of the Esk Valley.
40 minutes walk from Whitby; Cross Butts is where the town meets country. It’s the perfect base for exploring nearby Sandsend, Robin Hood’s Bay and the beautiful North York Moors National Park.
Guisborough Rd, Whitby YO21 1TL
The Duke Of York
The Duke Of York is an excellent restaurant if you want something more traditional with the atmosphere of a good old-fashioned local pub. Plus, there is a fabulous view of the harbour, so you can watch boats coming in and going out while enjoying a meal. It’s a small spot that can get very busy at peak times!
They have a wide range of ales and a wide range of high-quality fresh food. They have a range of daily specials, so it’s worth looking at their specials board. You will also find a range of memorabilia and historical items on the walls to enjoy.
We love visiting here after a little time beachcombing on Tate Hill Beach.
Duke Of York, 124 Church St, Whitby YO22 4DE
The Board Inn
Situated at the end of Church Street, close to the bottom of the 199 Steps. The Board Inn is another popular pub/restaurant in Whitby that overlooks the harbour and offers stunning views out to sea.
Their menu blends traditional and modern dishes. It is constantly updated, and there is always something unique to try on a special board.
The staff here are friendly and will go out of their way to accommodate you. Dogs are welcome here so that you can enjoy a meal together after a lovely walk around Whitby.
125 Church St, Whitby YO22 4DE
White Horse and Griffin
The White Horse and Griffin is one of the oldest properties on the east side of Whitby, so if there is one restaurant that captures Whitby’s heritage, it’s this one!
Its seafood-orientated menu offers many traditional and modern dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. So whether you are just looking for a spot for a bite to eat or you want to enjoy a lovely Sunday lunch with the entire family, the White Horse and Griffin can provide you with a beautiful meal. Dogs are more than welcome, too.
Its fantastic food and location might convince you to stay over, too. They offer 10 ensuite, individually styled guest rooms. Some are pretty grand, others small and cosy. All are named after famous Whitby ships and their skippers.
87 Church St, Whitby YO22 4BH
Humble Pie and Mash
We love Humble Pie and Mash! The sixteenth-century shop has been lovingly restored to its timber-framed beginnings. Relax in front of their open fire and enjoy the traditional home-cooked food.
Try their range of meat or vegetarian pies. Try their mash, peas, and delicious gravy for a classic combination—ideal for lunch or supper!
Humble Pie is a family-run business; all the pies are homemade and baked fresh every day on the premises, and they only use the best ingredients.
You can now book to stay at their accommodation, “Little Pie In The Sky”, and each day you stay, each person gets a pie and mash meal.
163 Church St, Whitby YO22 4AS
The Angel Hotel Wetherspoon
You know what you’re getting with a Wetherspoon, and Whitby has a great one. Centrally situated, this beautiful hotel stands proudly on the harbour, overlooking the River Esk.
After undergoing a multimillion-pound renovation, this 34-room hotel has seating upstairs and downstairs for food and drink, plus a beer garden. Perfect for a spot for lunch, it is affordable and serves good pub food.
1 New Quay Rd, Whitby YO21 1DH
Rusty Shears
Slightly off the beaten track, Rusty Shears is a little hidden gem. Pop in while you’re exploring the town for a coffee. They have great homemade cakes, pastries, and speciality teas.
Regarding food, it’s such a diverse spot; we love visiting in the evening for a tapas-sharing board and a glass of wine or a gorgeous brunch or breakfast in the morning. They also serve a great roast here.
The interior is quirky, with lots of Victorian charm. It also has a pretty sheltered courtyard where guests can chat for hours.
4 Silver St, Whitby YO21 3BU
Trenchers Fish and Chips
Our personal favourite spot for fish and chips—ssh, don’t tell anyone!
We love that you can get different-sized portions of fish and chips here, so we often visit for a small portion at lunch. The fish here is the freshest I’ve ever tasted; it has so much flavour. The batter is light and crispy, and I lash curry sauce over my chips. Delicious!
The menu includes fresh seafood salads, crab, lobster, fresh fish, homemade pies and lasagnas, vegetarian options, gluten-free options, and a dedicated children’s menu.
The staff are always so friendly. The restaurant is clean and bright, and the atmosphere is lovely overall. They also have a takeaway.
Find further information here.
New Quay Rd, Whitby YO21 1DH
Hadley’s Fish Restaurant in Whitby
Some claim that Hadley’s serves the best fish and chips in the world, a bold claim; you must visit and taste for yourself before passing judgment! They get lots of great reviews for their gluten-free fish and chips.
Hadley’s dates back to 1937. Alan Hadley was committed to providing high-quality fish and chips at an affordable price. This dedication has remained unchanged over the years, and now, with more than 75 years of expertise in the field, they have perfected the art of serving delicious fish and chips.
The restaurant is comfortable and relaxed; they can seat up to 120 on the ground floor and upstairs dining rooms.
11 Bridge St, Whitby YO22 4BG
Passage To India
If you are in the mood for an Indian meal, Passage To India is a great place to go. Like many Whitby restaurants, their menu is huge and has something for everyone.
With its ideal town centre location and delicious menu, Passage to India certainly offers a warm welcome. It’s a great place to try Indian dishes or a mixture of Indian and English dishes.
They also have a takeaway menu, ideal for people with self-catering accommodation who want to enjoy a night in.
Read our Passage To India review.
30-31 Windsor Terrace, Whitby YO21 1ET
Moutreys
We really love this restaurant because it offers something different from the other restaurants in Whitby.
The wood-fired oven, open-plan kitchen, and rustic iron-clad décor make this a unique setting for a romantic meal, a family gathering or a relaxing evening with friends.
The menu offers comforting Italian dishes, including fresh pizzas, flavourful pasta, delicious meat entrees, and freshly caught seafood. The restaurant takes pride in using only the finest ingredients, sourcing locally whenever possible.
The special menu includes succulent chicken wings and a variety of flame-grilled meats and fish prepared in the wood-fired oven. Additionally, they offer a selection of steaks, mouth-watering burgers, and several vegetarian options.
The restaurant is nearly always full in peak season, so book beforehand!
9 Grape Ln, Whitby YO22 4BA
Pizza West
Pizza West, located on the West Cliff in Whitby, has gained a reputation for its fantastic food and excellent service. Guests have raved about the delicious pizzas, which feature fresh and, where possible, locally sourced toppings.
The menu also boasts some unique ingredients, adding a special twist to the classic pizza toppings. (Yep, we have even seen a Christmas dinner pizza on the menu here!!)
Many people rave about the gluten-free pizza bases here being the best they have tried. They also offer takeaway.
West Cliff, Whitby YO21 3HT
Cosa Nostra
Cosa Nostra serves incredible quality pizzas, pasta, and other Italian favourites. Its central location ensures you are only a stone’s throw from the town centre. They also have a vast selection of wines and a variety of beers, spirits, and soft drinks.
The relaxed atmosphere and friendly staff make this a solid choice when dining in Whitby. You can’t go wrong with a pizza or pasta dish from Cosa Nostra—simple, exquisite food at sensible prices.
161 Church St, Whitby YO22 4AS
Kam Thai Restaurant
Thai food is not consistently on everyone’s list when they come to Whitby, but everyone can enjoy it, especially the dishes served at Kam Thai.
Their menu features a selection of fish dishes, Thai curries, traditional Thai stir-fries, and grilled chicken and beef dishes. In addition, there are plenty of “hotter” dishes if you like to feel a burn in your mouth.
This Whitby restaurant is contemporary, has professional and attentive staff, and offers real value for money, making it a top choice for any occasion.
They also offer takeaway, which we often have when staying for a while in self-catering accommodation.
Unit 6, Whitby, Station Square, Whitby YO21 1DX
The Moon & Sixpence
Another lovely restaurant is located right next to the harbour. The Moon & Sixpence is a popular place to eat and drink in Whitby. It also has 3 stylish and comfortable rooms.
Their bar boasts an impressive selection of cocktails, beers, wines, and coffee, while the brasserie serves up delectable and innovative cuisine using only the freshest ingredients. If you enjoy a quirky cocktail, give this location a try!
We love sitting outside here with a coffee or a beer, depending on our mood! It’s a lovely spot to watch the world go by.
5-6 Marine Parade, Whitby YO21 3PR
The Marine
The Marine Restaurant is a popular seafood restaurant just a stone’s throw from The Moon & Sixpence. It has a warm, welcoming atmosphere, a relaxed dining area, and stunning views.
The decor is simple and modern, focusing on natural materials and a colour palette that reflects the coastal surroundings. This is an excellent spot if you enjoy seafood! We love the lemon sole here.
They also feature 4 stylish rooms, all with character and sea views.
13, Marine Parade, 13 Marine Parade, Whitby YO21 3PR
Four Seasons
The Four Seasons is a great option located in the centre of Whitby. The menu combines Mediterranean and English cuisine; you can choose to eat in or take away.
The reviews for this restaurant are fantastic, with many people recommending the fish and chips over many other spots in Whitby. Many return here whenever they visit Whitby because the staff are friendly and accommodating.
14 Bridge St, Whitby YO22 4BG
Quayside
Quayside is another fabulous restaurant in Whitby that serves classic fish and chips. Although there are many places to try fish and chips in Whitby, Quayside is a firm favourite with many people.
The first floor boasts panoramic harbour views so that you can enjoy your meal with a backdrop. Try their homemade gelato for dessert! It’s exceptional.
Serving exceptional quality, sustainable fish and seafood is extremely important to the Quayside staff and has long been.
7 Pier Rd, Whitby YO21 3PU
The Edge
The food, service, and location at The Edge are all fantastic.
There are plenty of meat, fish, vegetarian, and vegan options. The portion sizes are substantial and reasonably priced. We love the prawn and lobster spaghetti here. We received brilliant service from the staff, who could not have been friendlier or more accommodating.
Check out the changing specials board for something unique. Reviews can’t recommend this restaurant enough, so visit it if you are visiting Whitby.
13 Bridge St, Whitby YO22 4BG
Emma’s Diner
There isn’t a more fun restaurant in Whitby than Emma’s Diner. If you are looking for a place that’s a little less traditional Whitby and a little more American glitz. Try Emma’s Diner, a 1950s/1960s-style diner located on Flowergate.
The staff wear themed outfits, and not only do they look fantastic, but they are also really welcoming and accommodating.
Portion sizes are generous; you can get everything from fish and chips to American-style burgers here. The chilli dogs are our favourite and anywhere you can get curly fries is sensational in our books. Try the milkshakes here; they are so good! They offer takeaway, too.
36-37 Flowergate, Whitby YO21 3BB
Velveteen French Café, Bar & Brasserie
Velveteen is a cosy and laid-back restaurant. It is a classic Anglo-French café, bar, and brasserie.
They use only the finest ingredients and follow time-honoured techniques to create delicious food. This restaurant is ideal if you fancy a bit of France in Whitby. The Lobster thermodor here is gorgeous, and the staff are so lovely.
For something a little different whilst in Whitby, experience the dazzling Jazz culture of Bohemian Paris at their mid-week live Jazz & dinner evenings.
3a Grape Ln, Whitby YO22 4BA
Ditto
Ditto is a small family-run establishment serving incredible food in an intimate venue. The restaurant is open on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays, with the first booking available at 6 p.m. and the last booking at 8 p.m.
Only seven tables are available, so be sure to book in advance. The largest table they can accommodate is for four people. They offer a set menu with two courses for £30 or three for £38.
One of their standout dishes is the Steamed Cod Loin with Sesame, Potato Gnocchi, Creamy Leek Sauce, Celeriac Remoulade, and Apple Salsa.
26 Skinner St, Whitby YO21 3AJ
Restaurants a little further afield
Estbek House, Sandsend
Located in Sandsend, Estbek House stands as an esteemed award-winning restaurant and hotel. The Georgian property, dating back to around 1750 and once home to the Alum mining office, is bursting with historic charm, complemented by modern luxuries.
Having proudly earned an AA Rosette in September 2004 and achieving a second Rosette in April 2009, Estbek House prides itself on a daily changing menu that highlights the area’s local flavours.
With the sea and moorland at its doorstep, the restaurant strives to showcase the best of this beautiful corner of the world. Their dishes capture the authentic essence often lost in the modern culinary scene using only the finest fresh local ingredients.
East Row, Sandsend, Whitby YO21 3SU
Cod and Lobster, Staithes
Visit this charming pub on the seafront in Staithes for real ale and delicious hearty pub food. The friendly and attentive staff create an excellent setting for a leisurely meal, with great views overlooking the harbour.
The varied menu includes a beautiful selection of fish dishes and other pub classics. We love the chicken parmo here, and the prices are very reasonable.
The pub is dog-friendly. We highly recommend a visit to Staithes.
61 High St, Staithes, Saltburn-by-the-Sea TS13 5BH
The Cove, Robin Hoods Bay
The Cove is a converted chapel with a daily cafe and evening pizza menu. Here, you can have a delicious handmade pizza with a stunning view. Relax on their terrace, which overlooks the North York Moors coastline, and try their locally sourced food with a view like no other.
If you fall in love with this beautiful venue, you can get married here!
The Old Chapel, Chapel Street, Robin Hood’s Bay, Whitby YO22 4SQ
Have we missed out your favourite? If you have visited a great restaurant in Whitby and would like to add it to this article, please comment below, and we will add your chosen restaurant. We hope this article has helped you pick the perfect restaurant in Whitby for you!
Abbey Wharfe deserves a mention – terrific staff & lovely, well presented food & impressive views .
Rusty Shears is also a fabulous quirky eatery to try
Thanks Sue, your comment is approved so they are now mentioned. We will be compiling a more exhaustive list and publishing it shortly. Thanks for contributing.
Come on you have to include Hadley’s ! The best fish n chips in town in fact the best fish n chips in the world !
Hi Mark, we will certainly add them when we update the article. Thank you for the recommendation.
And what about the fisherman so wife. Fantastic views as well as great food
Thanks for the recommendation Kev, we will add it to the article when we next update.
Not sure about one or two places on your list, but one that certainly should be there is the The Blitz Café & Tapas Bar on Church Street. It’s new in Whitby and the food and décor is great!
We went to Passage to India as a couple earlier this year. Whilst we were there 2 fights broke out at either side of us and the police were called. Certainly wouldn’t call it a family atmosphere. Didn’t feel safe, it was an awful experience.
Sorry to hear about your experience Joanne. Sounds terrible. I’ve visited the restaurant a few times myself over the years but will visit again and see if it still warrants a place in our recommended Whitby restaurants list. Thanks for the comment. Have a great day.
Food in passage to India is ok but not outstanding, very average… being the only Indian around.. if you’ve never been anywhere else then you will enjoy it….but there’s way better
Went to Rusty Shears today and it was excellent, would love to go back and try the afternoon high tea looks yummy!
Indian moments on church street is a better Indian restaurant than Passage to India, and does not have the same rowdiness. Definitely a step up from the other Indian. More modern Indian cuisine with some good specials.
Thank you Jules. I’ll get your suggestion added to the article. Tom
Agree very tasty freshly cooked meals we make a point of booking at least one night at Indian moments every time we go to Whitby, my favourite Indian restaurant in the country.
We had two different curry’s at passage to India and could not tell the difference between them.
Classy chilled experience and good value.
Take a walk to the butchers in rusurp the best bacon sandwich around the pies are amazing get there early or they will sell out regards mark h
Humble pie & mash is amazing, and Blitz Cafe MUST Add x
I don’t understand the hype around the Magpie cafe. In my opinion, Angel fisheries is far better and a lot cheaper. Blitz cafe served the worst cup of coffee I’ve experienced in over 40 years of living and working around the world. You should include the Singing Kettle – friendly, down to earth and the best (and best value) full English breakfast in Whitby. Java Cafe is also brilliant.
Wilson arms in Sneaton beautiful home cooked food and excellent service.
The Edge at Whitby. Outstanding food, people and lovely atmosphere inside. We were there for four days and ate there every night with a great choice of meals. High recommended.
The Edge great meal New Year’s Eve great great staff Excellent night .
Very helpful article and comments to the article. Thank you.
I’m visiting Whitby with family including a baby aged 7 months early July. Any suggestions for places that have vegan options on the menus?