The Best Places to Eat in Stornoway
There’s something about a hearty meal that brings people together. Whether you’re exploring a new destination or simply taking a moment to savour local flavours, the food you find can become an integral part of your travel memories.
If you’re visiting Stornoway, the main town on the Isle of Lewis, you’ll quickly discover it’s not just the stunning landscapes, fascinating landmarks and rich history that draw people in, but also the abundance of fantastic eateries. From fresh local seafood to cosy pub meals, there’s something for everyone in this quaint yet vibrant town.
Whether you’re travelling from the Scottish Islands or beyond, Stornoway is a perfect destination to explore the best of what the Outer Hebrides has to offer - including its thriving dining scene.
Exploring Restaurants in Stornoway, Isle of Lewis
When it comes to finding places to eat in Stornoway, the town offers a variety of culinary delights catering to all tastes and budgets. From fine dining to family-friendly spots, here are some of the standout Stornoway restaurants that will make your visit memorable.
Eleven Restaurant Stornoway
Located within the Caladh Inn, Eleven Restaurant and Bar offers a cosy and welcoming setting, making it a favourite for both locals and visitors alike. The varied menu showcases great Hebridean ingredients, with highlights including fresh mussels and scallops, complemented by a blend of local and international flavours. Eleven is particularly well-known for its popular carvery, where guests can enjoy perfectly roasted meats accompanied by traditional sides like Yorkshire puddings and roasted vegetables.
The family-friendly atmosphere, warm service, and convenient takeaway options make it ideal for a wide range of visitors. Whether you’re in for a hearty lunch or a special evening meal, Eleven delivers a dining experience that truly reflects the best of Stornoway.
Cost: ★★☆☆☆
Uniqueness of Menu: ★★★☆☆
Searching for inspiration for activities to enjoy between meals? Check out our guide to the abundance of things to do in Stornoway.
The Boatshed Restaurant Stornoway
Situated in the Royal Hotel, The Boatshed offers a relaxed yet sophisticated dining experience, centred around the best of local produce. The restaurant takes pride in using ingredients sourced from nearby suppliers, so much so that they even list their trusted providers on the market menu.
From locally caught shellfish to quality meats, every dish reflects the fresh, authentic flavours of the region. Seasonal Scottish fruits and vegetables also make frequent appearances, ensuring the menu remains vibrant and ever-evolving. With its warm atmosphere and dedication to local fare, The Boatshed is a top choice for those seeking a true taste of the Hebrides in the heart of Stornoway.
Cost: ★★★☆☆
Uniqueness of Menu: ★★★★☆
Harbour Kitchen Stornoway
For those seeking a more contemporary experience, Harbour Kitchen is an award-winning restaurant that offers a modern twist on traditional Scottish dishes. Known for its creative use of locally sourced ingredients, the restaurant has earned a reputation for its inventive menu.
From classic fish and chips to more adventurous dishes like scallops paired with famous Stornoway black pudding, Harbour Kitchen provides a dining experience that stands out. Set against the picturesque backdrop of the harbour, it's a favourite spot for younger visitors and anyone looking to explore modern culinary trends in a relaxed yet refined atmosphere.
Cost: ★★★★☆
Uniqueness of Menu: ★★★★★
La Balena – Italian Restaurant
La Balena brings authentic Italian cuisine to the Outer Hebrides, specialising in fresh, local seafood combined with Italian flavours. The family-owned restaurant offers a welcoming atmosphere and a menu featuring Italian favourites like pasta, seafood, and special seasonal dishes. It’s a bright and cosy spot for a memorable meal in Stornoway.
Cost: ★★★☆☆
Uniqueness of Menu: ★★★★☆
HS-1 Cafe Bar
Stornoway’s pub scene is equally rich, providing a laid-back atmosphere where visitors can enjoy hearty meals. HS-1 Café Bar, attached to the Royal Hotel, offers a casual dining experience perfect for a relaxed bite after a day of exploring. Known for everything from light snacks to more substantial meals, HS-1 is also one of the few Stornoway restaurants open on Sundays, making it a convenient choice for weekend visitors.
Cost: ★☆☆☆☆
Uniqueness of Menu: ★★★☆☆
The Crown Inn
For a more traditional pub experience, The Crown Inn is another fantastic choice. With its cosy small Inn feel and menu featuring Scottish classics like haggis and locally sourced seafood, The Crown Inn is a favourite among those looking for authentic, comforting dishes in a relaxed setting.
Cost: ★☆☆☆☆
Uniqueness of Menu: ★★★☆☆
Connecting Islands and Flavours
One of the joys of visiting Stornoway is its seamless connection to other islands in the Outer Hebrides. Airtask’s Hebridean Air Services provides regular passenger flights between Stornoway and Benbecula, making it easy to explore the Outer Hebrides. With just a short journey, you can dive into Stornoway’s fantastic food scene, the perfect place to refuel before continuing your Hebridean adventure.
Whether you're heading off to another island or simply enjoying all that Stornoway has to offer, these flights connect you to the heart of the Hebrides.
For more details or to book, contact us at 0845 805 7465 or email enquiries@hebridean.com.
Why Stornoway is a Must-Visit for Food Lovers
With its diverse dining options and strong focus on fresh, local ingredients, Stornoway is fast becoming a destination for food lovers. Whether you're in search of fine dining, casual pub meals, or family-friendly spots, Stornoway has something for everyone. From the best places to eat in the town centre to venturing just further afield for a taste of the best restaurants on the Isle of Lewis, Stornoway offers a memorable experience, especially for foodies.
So, why not plan a trip to Stornoway and discover its vibrant food scene for yourself? The town's culinary delights are sure to make your visit unforgettable.