Food & Drink in Stromness: Restaurants, Cafés & Local Food
Blair Martel
Jun 11, 2026
Food and drink in Stromness is deeply connected to the sea, the land, and the rich traditions of the Orkney Islands. On the edge of Orkney, this historic harbour town is known for fresh seafood, Orkney beef and lamb, homemade baking, and welcoming places to eat in Stromness, creating a food scene built on quality, local produce, and authentic island flavours.
With cafés and restaurants set along the waterfront in historic stone buildings, dining here is as much about atmosphere as it is about flavour.
Planning a food-led Orkney break? Stay close to Stromness harbour and enjoy food, coffee, and island adventures from The Stromness Hotel.
Why Stromness Is a Must-Visit Destination for Food Lovers
Stromness is different from larger food destinations. Rather than relying on big restaurant chains or international menus, Stromness restaurants focus on quality, locality, and food that reflects the island’s natural surroundings.
This creates a strong link between the landscape and what ends up on the plate. For travellers seeking authentic food experiences, Stromness offers local Orkney food, character, quality, and memorable island flavour.
A Historic Harbour Town with Character
Stromness is more than a harbour town. It is shaped by centuries of maritime history, stone buildings, and a deep connection to the sea. The harbour sits at the centre of everything and defines the town’s identity.
The past is still present in daily life. Fishing continues, ferries arrive and depart, and the harbour remains active. Cafés, restaurants, and family-friendly places to eat in Stromness are often set in old stone buildings once used by sailors, merchants, and fishermen.
For food lovers, this creates something special. Dining here feels connected to place, with Orkney food and drink shaped by the sea, the seasons, and traditional recipes passed down through time.
The Best of Orkney Food and Drink
For food lovers, Stromness is a gateway to Orkney’s wider culinary identity. The islands have developed a food culture that is simple, fresh, and deeply rooted in the landscape. It is shaped by clean waters, fertile land, and self-sufficient traditions.
Orkney beef and lamb are known for their rich flavour and quality. Seafood plays an even bigger role, with fresh haddock, mackerel, crab, and scallops commonly featured across local menus.
Baking and dairy are also important parts of the local food scene. Visitors often find buttery shortbread, fresh bread, and creamy cheeses made with milk from Orkney farms.
Fresh Local Produce and Seafood
- Orkney Crab – Sweet, delicate crab caught in the clean waters around Orkney and commonly served fresh in salads, sandwiches, and seafood platters.
- Hand-Dived Scallops – One of Orkney’s most famous seafood products, known for their sweet flavour and tender texture.
- North Atlantic Lobster – Sustainably caught local lobster, often served simply to highlight its natural taste.
- Brown Crab – A local favourite with rich, flavourful meat used in a variety of seafood dishes.
- Fresh Haddock – Frequently featured on local menus, either grilled, baked, or prepared as traditional fish and chips.
- Atlantic Cod – A versatile white fish prized for its flaky texture and mild flavour.
- Orkney Langoustines – Also known as Dublin Bay prawns, these shellfish are valued for their sweet and succulent meat.
- Mussels – Harvested from Orkney’s nutrient-rich waters and often served steamed with local ingredients.
- Mackerel – A seasonal fish with a rich flavour, commonly smoked or served fresh.
- Orkney Salmon – Farmed in the clear waters surrounding the islands and known for its high quality and flavour.
- Orkney Beef – Produced from cattle raised on the islands’ lush grasslands, delivering exceptional flavour and tenderness.
- Orkney Lamb – Renowned for its rich taste, shaped by the islands’ coastal grazing environment.
- Bere Barley – An ancient grain unique to Orkney, used in breads, biscuits, and traditional recipes.
- Locally Grown Root Vegetables – Potatoes, carrots, turnips, and other vegetables thrive in Orkney’s fertile soil and mild climate.
- Fresh Herbs and Seasonal Greens – Grown locally and used by Stromness restaurants to bring seasonal flavour to many dishes.
How to Choose the Best Restaurants in Stromness
With a wide selection of restaurants in Stromness, choosing where to dine can be part of the adventure. Whether you are searching for fresh seafood, traditional island dishes, or family-friendly places to eat in Stromness, there are several factors that can help you find the right restaurant for your visit.
1. Look for Local Orkney Ingredients
The best restaurants often showcase local produce, including Orkney seafood, beef, lamb, cheeses, and seasonal vegetables. Menus that highlight local suppliers usually provide a more authentic island dining experience.
2. Check the Freshness of the Menu
Many quality places to eat in Stromness adjust their menus according to seasonal availability and daily catches. Restaurants that regularly update their dishes often offer fresher ingredients and better flavours.
3. Consider the Location
One of the highlights of dining in Stromness is the waterfront setting. Harbour views can add to the overall experience, making location an important factor when deciding where to eat in Stromness.
For visitors arriving by ferry, the Scapa Flow Restaurant offers a welcoming harbour-view dining experience just a five-minute walk from the ferry terminal. Overlooking the historic waters of Scapa Flow, it provides an ideal setting to enjoy local Orkney food while watching activity around the harbour.
4. Read Recent Customer Reviews
Recent reviews can provide useful information about food quality, service, cleanliness, and atmosphere. Look for consistent positive feedback rather than focusing on a single review.
5. Check for Family-Friendly Facilities
Families may prefer restaurants that offer children's menus, spacious seating, high chairs, and a relaxed atmosphere. Many family-friendly places to eat in Stromness cater to visitors of all ages.
6. Explore the Menu Before Visiting
Reviewing the menu in advance can help you find restaurants that match your tastes and dietary requirements. The best establishments usually provide clear menu information online.
7. Assess the Atmosphere
Some visitors prefer casual cafés, while others may be looking for a formal dining experience. Consider whether you want a relaxed lunch, a cosy dinner, or a special occasion meal.
8. Look for Knowledgeable Staff
Friendly staff who understand local ingredients, seafood, and traditional Orkney dishes often enhance the dining experience and can recommend popular menu items.
9. Consider Value for Money
The best restaurant is not always the most expensive. Look for establishments that combine quality ingredients, generous portions, excellent service, and reasonable pricing.
10. Choose Restaurants with a Strong Local Identity
Restaurants that celebrate Orkney's heritage, culture, and food traditions often provide the most memorable dining experiences. Local character can be just as important as the food itself.
By considering these features, visitors can confidently choose among the many excellent restaurants in Stromness and enjoy some of the finest food experiences Orkney has to offer.
Scapa Flow Restaurant at The Stromness Hotel
Located inside The Stromness Hotel, Scapa Flow Restaurant offers a relaxed and welcoming place to eat. It is well suited for visitors who want a comfortable sit-down meal while staying close to the harbour area. The atmosphere is calm and informal.
The menu reflects the broader dining culture in Stromness, with an emphasis on local ingredients and traditional dishes. Guests can enjoy seafood, classic Scottish meals, and seasonal options throughout the day. It is a dependable choice for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Opening Hours: Breakfast is served Monday to Friday from 7:30 AM to 9:30 AM and Saturday to Sunday from 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM.
Dinner is available daily from 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM, making Scapa Flow Restaurant a dependable choice for both visitors and local residents looking for quality dining near Stromness Harbour.
Coffee, Cakes and Light Bites at The Flattie in a Teacup
The Flattie in a Teacup is a cosy café in Stromness, located inside The Stromness Hotel. It sits close to the harbour and ferry terminal, making it a convenient stop for visitors arriving in town or exploring nearby streets.
It offers a calm and welcoming space to enjoy coffee in Stromness. The slower pace makes it ideal for relaxing after travel or sightseeing. It fits well with the town’s easygoing island atmosphere.
The menu features traditional tearoom favourites. Guests can enjoy tea, coffee, homemade cakes, pastries, sandwiches, and light bites. It is a simple but charming option for cafés in Stromness.
Opening Hours: The Flattie in a Teacup is open Monday to Friday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, offering indoor seating and a comfortable place to unwind while exploring Stromness.
A Full Day of Local Orkney Food in Stromness
A full day of food and drink in Stromness can begin with a hearty breakfast, continue with a light harbour-side lunch, and end with a relaxed dinner inspired by the sea and local farms. Many cafés, restaurants, and places to eat in Stromness are close to the waterfront, making it easy to enjoy local flavours throughout the day.
Local Breakfast Options
- Orkney Porridge – Made with Scottish oats and often served with milk, honey, berries, or cream for a warm and filling start to the day.
- Full Scottish Breakfast – Usually includes sausages, bacon, mushrooms, tomatoes, beans, toast, and sometimes black pudding or tattie scones.
- Freshly Baked Scones – Made with flour, butter, milk, and sometimes dried fruit, often served with jam and cream.
Local Lunch Options
- Orkney Cheddar Sandwich – Made with local Orkney cheese, fresh bread, butter, salad leaves, and chutney.
- Smoked Salmon Roll – Filled with smoked salmon, cream cheese, lettuce, lemon, and soft bread or a fresh roll.
- Homemade Soup with Bread – Often made with seasonal vegetables, lentils, or seafood, served with crusty bread.
Local Dinner Options
- Fresh Orkney Seafood – Dishes may include haddock, scallops, crab, mussels, or langoustines, often served with potatoes, vegetables, or salad.
- Orkney Beef – Known for its rich flavour, usually served as steak, burgers, or slow-cooked dishes with vegetables.
- Orkney Lamb – A traditional island favourite, often roasted or slow-cooked with herbs, potatoes, and seasonal vegetables.
- Fish and Chips – A classic coastal meal made with battered haddock or cod, served with chips and peas.
From breakfast in Stromness to dinner by the harbour, local food is closely connected to Orkney’s sea, land, and farming traditions.
Restaurants in Stromness and DIY Picnic Ideas with Local Orkney Food
While many visitors enjoy dining in Stromness restaurants overlooking the harbour, others prefer to create their own outdoor dining experience. For couples, families, and walkers exploring Orkney, a picnic beside the water can be one of the most memorable ways to enjoy local food and drink.
Create Your Own Orkney Picnic
Many local shops and food retailers stock ingredients that showcase the best of Orkney's produce. Visitors can pick up fresh ingredients and enjoy a relaxed meal overlooking Stromness Harbour, Scapa Flow, or one of the island's scenic coastal viewpoints.
Picnic Ideas for Couples
For a simple romantic picnic, consider:
- Fresh Orkney smoked salmon on crusty bread
- Orkney cheddar cheese and oatcakes
- Homemade chutney or onion marmalade
- Seasonal berries when available
- Shortbread or traditional Orkney biscuits
- Sparkling water, elderflower drink, or local apple juice
Pack everything in a basket and find a quiet spot overlooking the harbour for sunset views across Scapa Flow.
Family-Friendly Picnic Ideas
Families can create easy lunches using local ingredients:
- Ham and Orkney cheddar sandwiches
- Tuna and sweetcorn rolls
- Fresh fruit and vegetable sticks
- Homemade traybakes or cakes
- Crisps and oatcakes
- Fruit juice or soft drinks
These options travel well and are ideal for days spent exploring beaches, museums, and historic sites.
Picnic Ideas for Walkers
Walkers exploring the coast or sections of Orkney's trails often need filling and practical food:
- Roast beef and horseradish sandwiches
- Smoked salmon and cream cheese rolls
- Cheese and pickle sandwiches
- Scotch broth in a flask
- Oatcakes with cheese
- Bananas, apples, and dried fruit
These foods are easy to carry and provide energy for longer walks.
Where to Buy Local Produce in Stromness and Orkney
Visitors can often find local produce in supermarkets, independent food shops, bakeries, farm shops, delicatessens, and local markets throughout Stromness and Orkney. Look for products labelled Orkney-made, including local cheese, smoked seafood, preserves, oatcakes, baking, seasonal vegetables, and local drinks.
- Orkney Farmers’ Market – Masonic Hall, Castle Street, Kirkwall.
Held on the last Saturday of most months from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. A great place to find local meat, fish, cheese, baking, preserves, and artisan products.
- Bayleaf Delicatessen – 103 Victoria Street, Stromness.
A good Stromness stop for Orkney cheese, sourdough, smoked fish, local preserves, coffee, wine, local beer, and picnic ingredients.
- Argo’s Bakery – 50 Victoria Street, Stromness; also Cairston Road, Stromness.
Sells bread, cakes, biscuits, Orkney fudge, takeaway food, groceries, local cheese, Orkney ales, and whisky.
- Loki Seafood Shack – Garson Food Park, Stromness.
Best for fresh local seafood, takeaway seafood lunches, wet fish, pantry items, and Friday fish and chips. Shop hours are usually Tuesday to Saturday, 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM.
- The Brig Larder – 1 Albert Street, Kirkwall.
A strong choice for fresh fish, Orkney meat, farmhouse cheese, oatcakes, fudge, biscuits, local drinks, and food gifts. Open Monday to Friday 9:00 AM–5:30 PM and Saturday 9:00 AM–5:00 PM.
- Kirkness & Gorie – 11 Broad Street, Kirkwall.
A specialist deli for Orkney cheese, farm cheese, chutneys, oatcakes, fudge, whisky, gin, beer, wine, and pantry goods. Open Wednesday to Saturday, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM.
- Jollys of Orkney – Scott’s Road, Hatston, Kirkwall.
A good place for smoked salmon, fresh fish, smoked seafood, hampers, and Orkney food gifts. Open Monday to Friday 8:30 AM–4:30 PM and Saturday 9:00 AM–2:00 PM.
Easy Orkney Sandwich Ideas
A classic Orkney sandwich can be made with:
- Fresh bread or a soft roll.
- Orkney cheddar cheese or smoked salmon.
- Fresh lettuce or rocket.
- A spoonful of local chutney.
- Butter or cream cheese.
The result is a simple meal that highlights local flavours without requiring complicated preparation.
Whether you choose dinner at a harbour-view restaurant or a homemade picnic beside the water, enjoying local food outdoors is one of the best ways to experience the character of Stromness and the wider Orkney Islands.
What Local Orkney Food Should You Try?
A key highlight of food and drink in Stromness is the chance to explore local Orkney food. The islands are known for fresh seafood, quality meat, artisan dairy, and locally made products.
This strong food culture is shaped by Orkney’s natural environment. Clean waters, fertile land, and traditional farming all contribute to the quality of ingredients used in restaurants in Stromness.
For first-time visitors, understanding these local specialities can enhance the experience of eating in Stromness. It helps make each meal more memorable and connected to the place.
Fresh Orkney Seafood
Fresh seafood is one of the highlights of eating in Stromness. Fishing has been part of island life for centuries, and today seafood often goes straight from boat to kitchen.
Salmon, haddock, cod, shellfish, and seasonal catches are all part of the local food scene. These ingredients reflect the surrounding waters and are served fresh across many restaurants in Stromness.
Dishes like the Pan Seared Salmon at Scapa Flow Restaurant show the quality of local produce. Fish and Chips is another classic, made even better by Stromness’s coastal setting.
Orkney Beef, Lamb and Artisan Produce
While seafood often receives the most attention, local Orkney food is equally shaped by the islands' farming heritage. Orkney's fertile soil, clean air, and coastal grazing land help produce some of Scotland's most respected beef and lamb. For centuries, farming has played a central role in island life, and today many restaurants in Stromness continue to showcase locally sourced meat on their menus.
Orkney Beef
Orkney beef is known for its rich flavour and tenderness. Cattle are raised on nutrient-rich grassland, often grazing outdoors for much of the year. This natural diet contributes to the quality of the meat and makes Orkney beef a popular choice in many places to eat in Stromness.
Visitors may find Orkney beef served as:
- Traditional roast beef dinners
- Steak and ale pies
- Homemade burgers
- Slow-cooked beef casseroles
- Grilled steaks with seasonal vegetables
Orkney Lamb
The islands' coastal environment also helps create distinctive lamb with a rich, slightly sweet flavour. Sheep graze on grassland influenced by sea air and mineral-rich soils, producing meat that is highly regarded throughout Scotland.
Popular lamb dishes include:
- Roast Orkney lamb with rosemary
- Slow-cooked lamb shank
- Shepherd's pie
- Lamb stews with root vegetables
- Traditional Sunday roasts
Traditional Scottish Specialities
Visitors looking to experience authentic food and drink in Stromness should consider trying some classic Scottish dishes that regularly appear on local menus:
- Haggis, Neeps and Tatties – Haggis served with mashed turnips (neeps) and potatoes (tatties).
- Chicken Balmoral – Chicken breast stuffed with haggis and often served with a creamy whisky sauce.
- Scotch Broth – A hearty soup made with lamb, barley, and vegetables.
- Steak Pie – A comforting Scottish favourite often served with potatoes and vegetables.
Artisan Produce from Orkney
The islands are also known for their artisan food producers. Many cafés, hotels, and family-friendly places to eat in Stromness use locally made ingredients to support island businesses and provide visitors with authentic flavours.
Look out for:
- Orkney cheddar and speciality cheeses
- Fresh milk, cream, and butter
- Bere bannocks made from ancient Orkney bere barley
- Artisan breads and rolls
- Locally made jams, chutneys, and preserves
- Seasonal vegetables grown on the islands
Together, these products help create a food scene that goes far beyond seafood and offers visitors a true taste of Orkney's agricultural heritage.
Sweet Treats and Orkney Desserts
No guide to where to eat in Stromness would be complete without mentioning the town's sweet treats. Traditional baking remains an important part of island culture, and many cafés and tearooms continue to serve homemade cakes, biscuits, and desserts inspired by local recipes.
Orkney's high-quality dairy products play a major role in many desserts. Rich cream, fresh milk, and locally produced butter help create simple but flavourful treats that are popular with both residents and visitors.
Traditional Orkney and Scottish Desserts
Visitors exploring food and drink in Stromness may come across:
- Clootie Dumpling – A traditional Scottish fruit pudding made with dried fruit and spices.
- Cranachan – A dessert combining cream, oats, berries, and honey.
- Shortbread – A classic Scottish biscuit made with butter, flour, and sugar.
- Tablet – A traditional Scottish sweet similar to fudge but with a firmer texture.
- Fruit Scones – Often served warm with jam and cream.
Cakes and Homemade Baking
Many cafés in Stromness serve:
- Victoria sponge cake
- Lemon drizzle cake
- Carrot cake
- Chocolate traybakes
- Millionaire's shortbread
- Seasonal berry cakes
These treats are particularly popular with visitors looking for afternoon refreshments while exploring the harbour area.
Orkney Ice Cream and Dairy Treats
At Scapa Flow Restaurant, guests can enjoy a selection of Orkney ice creams, providing a refreshing way to finish a meal. Across Stromness, many cafés and tearooms also feature desserts made with local dairy products, reflecting the islands' long tradition of farming and food production.
Whether you are stopping for coffee, searching for places to eat in Stromness, or planning a full dining experience, the town's desserts and baked goods provide another delicious introduction to local Orkney food.
Planning Your Visit
Planning your visit to Stromness helps you enjoy its food scene more fully. The town offers waterfront cafés, seafood restaurants, traditional dishes, and local desserts inspired by Orkney.
Even a short visit can include great food experiences. Knowing where to eat in Stromness and when to explore helps you make the most of your time. With a bit of planning, food and drink in Stromness becomes a key part of your journey through Orkney.
When to Visit Stromness
Stromness can be visited all year round, but each season feels different. The experience of food, scenery, and atmosphere changes with the time of year.
Summer is lively, with long days for exploring and enjoying waterfront dining in Stromness. The town feels active and welcoming.
Spring and autumn are quieter, offering a more relaxed pace. Winter brings cosy meals, fewer crowds, and dramatic coastal scenery that adds character to every visit.
Tips for Finding the Best Dining Experiences
A great way to experience dining in Stromness is to focus on local ingredients. Fresh seafood, Orkney beef and lamb, dairy, and seasonal produce all reflect the island’s natural environment and shape the character of places to eat across the town.
Where you stay can also enhance the experience. Staying at The Stromness Hotel puts you right in the heart of the harbour area, making it easy to explore cafés, restaurants, and waterfront views at a relaxed pace.
Beyond the food itself, take time to enjoy the setting. Harbour scenery, historic stone streets, and a calm island atmosphere all add to the experience of eating in Stromness.
Ready to explore food and drink in Stromness? Book your stay at The Stromness Hotel and enjoy Orkney from a welcoming harbour-side base.
Blair Martel
Categories
Food & Drink
