The Isle of Wight isn’t just a destination for coastal walks, sailing regattas, and music festivals—it’s also a hidden gem for food lovers. With its mild climate, fertile land, and access to fresh seafood, the island offers a rich variety of locally sourced delicacies that capture the spirit of the English seaside. Whether you’re a day-tripper or planning a longer escape, here are 10 must-try foods on the Isle of Wight that will give you a true taste of the island – explore more about the IoW here.
1. Isle of Wight Tomatoes
These tomatoes are grown in the island’s sunny southern climate, particularly by The Tomato Stall in Arreton. Known for their intense sweetness and variety—from classic reds to golden yellows—they’re used in everything from salads to artisan ketchups and chutneys.
Where to try: Tomato Stall farm shop or island farmers’ markets.
2. Crab Pasties
Freshly caught Ventnor or Bembridge crab is often featured in island pasties—a seaside twist on a Cornish classic. These are typically flaky, buttery, and packed with locally sourced crab meat and herbs.
Where to try: Steep hill Cove cafés or local bakeries like Grace’s Bakery.
3. Isle of Wight Blue Cheese
Produced by the award-winning Isle of Wight Cheese Company, this creamy blue cheese is made with pasteurised Guernsey cow’s milk. It has a rich, smooth flavour that’s less sharp than traditional blues.
Where to try: On cheeseboards at island pubs or purchased directly from local delis.
4. Fresh Oysters from Colwell Bay
The Isle of Wight has a growing reputation for oyster farming, especially in Colwell Bay. Enjoy them fresh with a squeeze of lemon or in a dressed oyster dish at a coastal restaurant.
Where to try: The Hut in Colwell Bay, a stylish beachfront dining spot.
5. Garlic Ice Cream
Quirky but quintessentially Isle of Wight, this unexpected treat is available at The Garlic Farm in Newchurch. It’s surprisingly subtle and well-balanced, combining creamy sweetness with a garlicky kick.
Where to try: The Garlic Farm restaurant or shop.
6. Island Lamb
The island’s lamb is particularly flavoursome due to the salt-rich coastal grasses the animals graze on. Often slow-roasted or featured in stews and Sunday roasts.
Where to try: The Taverners in Godshill or The George in Yarmouth.
7. Isle of Wight Gin
OK, not a food—but it’s too iconic to ignore. Mermaid Gin, produced by the Isle of Wight Distillery, uses locally foraged botanicals and comes in a stunning glass bottle inspired by the ocean.
Where to try: Distillery tours or most island pubs and bars.
8. Seafood Platter at The Crab Shed
This tiny but beloved eatery in Steep hill Cove offers daily catch platters, often including lobster, crab, prawns, and mackerel—all caught just yards away.
Where to try: The Crab Shed, Steep hill Cove (open seasonally).
9. Isle of Wight Doughnuts
Found at traditional bakeries and seaside stands, these sugar-dusted, fresh doughnuts are often made daily and best eaten warm. Simple, nostalgic, and delicious.
Where to try: Gossips Café in Yarmouth or local beach kiosks.
10. Black Garlic
Also from The Garlic Farm, black garlic is aged to bring out a rich, balsamic-like sweetness. It’s used in sauces, marinades, and even desserts.
Where to try: Buy a jar from The Garlic Farm or try dishes featuring it at island restaurants.
Final Thoughts
The Isle of Wight may be small, but its food scene is bursting with flavour, creativity, and locally sourced goodness. From the farms and fisheries to your plate, every bite tells a story of tradition, innovation, and the sea.