The Best Places to Eat in Scarborough

One of the best ways to fully discover a place is to sample the local cuisine, and Scarborough’s cafés and restaurants are as varied and appealing as this cheerful coastal resort. 

For a birthday or special anniversary, there’s fine dining in a stylish setting, and at the other end of the spectrum, there are famous chippies that waft delicious smells down the length of the promenade. 

Whatever you choose, these suggestions of places to eat in Scarborough will provide memorable meals and a proper Yorkshire welcome, so why not sample a few of them during a getaway to the Yorkshire coast? For more inspiration take a look at some of the best things to do in Scarborough and browse our range of cottages in the seaside town. 

Skip to:

• Best Scarborough restaurants
• Best Scarborough pubs
• Best cafes in Scarborough
• Best Scarborough fish and chips

Best Scarborough restaurants

If you’re putting on your glad rags and stepping out for a special meal, there are plenty of options of places to eat in Scarborough – here’s our pick of the top three restaurants in the area.

Embers

The finger-licking smokiness of a wood-fired oven is centre stage at Embers. Steaks, chicken and seafood are all rendered irresistible at this Scarborough restaurant by chef and Yorkshireman Dan Hargreaves, who prides himself on giving local produce an international twist.  

The small plates are lifted to a higher level with the addition of fire (and veggies are well catered for too) – check out the smoked garlic hummus and burnt baby gem salad. A feast for both the eyes and the tastebuds. Scrubbed wooden tables and rustic platters add to the hearty, wholesome vibe of this friendly restaurant.  

AZ restaurant

AZ Restaurant is illuminated by glowing lanterns, creating a wonderfully intimate backdrop to present an exciting and mouth-watering array of fresh and zingy Middle-Eastern flavours. Using family recipes from his home country, Turkish chef Mehmet produces a banquet of tempting meals including Islim Kebab, a divine combination of succulent marinated lamb and tender aubergine. Vegetarians will be delighted by the handmade falafels and silky-smooth houmous, perfect with freshly made breads.

Don’t miss the opportunity to sample the delicately spiced and fragrant rice pudding and honeyed baklava at this wonderful Scarborough eatery. 

Ox Pasture Hall

Image credit: Ox Pasture Hall

One of the glories of Ox Pasture Hall is its bucolic setting. It’s only 10 minutes outside vibrant Scarborough and yet all is quiet – just the sound of birdsong and the wind in the trees. Once inside, you’ll relax into a fine dining experience with white tablecloths and attentive waiting staff – all the makings of a special night out.

Choose from either a high-end gastropub menu in the Courtyard Restaurant or sensational seafood at Thomas Carr @ The Coast. Chef Thomas Carr has won a Michelin star at his previous restaurants so you can expect him to work his magic with a range of locally caught fish dishes. 

Best Scarborough pubs

Discover a fine Yorkshire welcome at the inviting pubs in Scarborough. They combine traditional hearty food with a buzzy, upbeat vibe – perfect for getting into the holiday mood. Here are three Scarborough pubs that are well worth making a special trip to. 

The Bryherstones Country Inn

Owners Paul and Sally have realised the appeal of a traditional country pub and have worked hard to create that atmosphere at The Bryherstones Country Inn, a dog-friendly restaurant and pub that's located just outside Scarborough. The all-important cask-conditioned ales include a rotating selection of guest beers from Yorkshire brewers and there’s a carefully selected wine list by a local expert.  

This Scarborough pub's welcoming interior is divided into four comfortable rooms, one of which, the Lower Garden Bar, opens out onto the large garden, ideal if you’ve got little ones who would enjoy the play area. You can also bring your pooch while you enjoy your pint. As you would expect from a traditional pub, the menu ticks all the boxes with homemade steak pie, gammon and chips (complete with pineapple) and a stonking Sunday lunch. 

The Scarborough Arms

In the heart of the town, The Scarborough Arms is ideally placed for relaxing after a day exploring the beach and castle and one of the best dog-friendly places to eat in Scarborough. Its popularity is a testament to the excellent service and homemade food as well as the lively atmosphere. Come here for a great selection of juicy burgers and kebabs, succulent steaks with a choice of sauces and tasty pies. There’s a good range of meals on the kids’ menu – something for all the family, plus dogs are welcome too. They work hard to accommodate special diets and even make gluten-free Yorkshire puddings if requested. 

The Old Scalby Mills

For a stunning location, head to The Old Scalby Mills, situated on Scalby Beck in Scarborough. This 17^th-century converted water mill has a huge picture window that affords views of the whole of Scarborough Bay – equally atmospheric whether it’s sunset over a glassy sea or storm-tossed waves lashing the sea wall. The setting is also reflected in the fresh and airy maritime-themed interior. 

Sup on the North Bay ale that is made specially for the Scarborough pub by nearby Wold Top Brewery and pick from a tempting array of meals including giant Yorkshire puddings filled with beef or sausages, and freshly caught fish with chips. Bring the pup along too – he’s welcome here.

Best cafes in Scarborough

From light bites to sweet treats and sit-down meals, Scarborough’s choice of cafes caters for every appetite. When it’s time for a midday pitstop, check out our suggestions – there’s something for everyone. 

Eat Me Café 

If you’re on the hunt for 21^st-century cuisine like sourdough, smashed avocado and sriracha sauce, here’s your answer. Originally located in the town centre, Eat Me Cafe has now moved to above The Stephen Joseph Theatre to better accommodate its ever-expanding customer base.

The enormous menu at this Scarborough cafe has a smorgasbord of tempting global offerings from Scottish breakfasts to Japanese bento boxes and Mexican burrito bowls. There’s also a big choice of sandwiches and wraps, all given the quirky Eat Me twist. The intriguing-sounding ‘balls’ come in beefy or veggie varieties and there’s a flow-chart illustration to help you hand-pick how you want them accompanied. 

Crema e Cioccolato

Until you’ve tried proper Italian gelato from Crema e Cioccolato, you won’t understand what all the fuss is about. It’s ice cream, but not as you know it. Silkier, smoother and more intense with an incredible range of flavours, a scoop of gelato is the perfect cooling treat. Leave the beachfront Mr Whippys to the kids – this is what ice cream should taste like.

Depending on your mood, opt for sophisticated pistachio or hazelnut or indulge in delicate apricot or lemon. There’s a range of hot drinks too, again of exceptional quality – try the perfectly made cappuccino or Italian hot chocolate.

Relish Kitchen & Coffee

Tucked away on a side street, Relish Kitchen & Coffee is well worth the diversion from the main drag, scoring highly with locals and visitors alike. This warm and welcoming café offers a hot drink and a teacake which we think is ideal for elevenses.  

There’s also an enticing range of burgers and salads if you’re looking for lunch or if you’re swinging by mid-afternoon, there are some superb homemade cakes and gooey brownies on offer, as well as the spectacular afternoon tea that includes finger sandwiches, scones and cake.

Best Scarborough fish and chips

You can’t come to Scarborough without sampling its celebrated fish and chips. There’s a wealth of fryers throughout the town – it’s so difficult to single any out! – but these three are definitely well worth a visit.

Lifeboat Fish Bar 

Named for the handsome vessel it’s situated by, Lifeboat Fish Bar’s beachfront spot makes it perfect for a warm meal after a day’s paddling. Opt for steaming parcels that you can tuck into alfresco or if you’re lucky, you may bag a spot in the small seating area.

Some say it’s the best fish and chips in Yorkshire; the selection of locally caught fish includes the freshest, whitest cod fillet in gorgeously crispy batter and the generous helping of golden-brown chips are to die for. Round it off with mushy peas, bread and butter and a pot of tea and job’s a good ‘un!   

The Famous Fishpan

You know you’ve picked well when the piece of fish is so big it overlaps the plate, and The Famous Fish Pan does not disappoint. You’re guaranteed a substantial meal here, and of top-notch quality at this Scarborough fish and chip shop. The chunky chips have found that holy grail of fluffy on the inside and crispy on the outside, and when teamed with curry sauce or mushy peas, you’ve got the perfect seaside meal. 

Head upstairs if you’re not planning to take away, and you’ll be rewarded with wonderful sea views away from the hustle and bustle of the front.

North Bay Fisheries

For a pure and simple Scarborough chippy that focuses on quality food without the frills, head to North Bay Fisheries. It’s takeaway only, but as the charming Peasholm Park is just over the road, you can make a bench your impromptu dining spot.  

The generous portions of flakey white fish served with a mountain of chips at bargain prices will put a smile on your face – as will the warm and friendly service of the hardworking staff.

Map of the best places to eat in Scarborough

Find these Scarborough restaurants, cafes and fish and chip shops with this handy map:

Places to stay in Scarborough

This spot on the breathtaking North Yorkshire coast dotted with sandy beaches and vibrant cafes makes Scarborough the go-to destination for traditional seaside fun. After a day spent building sandcastles, it’s wonderful to rest your head somewhere that feels welcoming and comfortable and there are lots of dog-friendly Scarborough cottages to choose from. 

Browse our Yorkshire coast cottages around Scarborough and find your perfect base for exploring the popular seaside town.