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Best places to eat in Ilkley, voted most envied place to live
This Yorkshire town has recently been recognised as one of the UK’s best places to live according to a survey. As foodie fanatics, we wanted to discover the best places to eat in Ilkley.
Our dining duo Grace and Nina, visited the charming West Yorkshire spa town to experience a day in its desirable lifestyle to see if it lived up to its name. With plenty of places to eat in Ilkley, we curated an itinerary full of culinary gems and hotspots to visit whilst we explored.
Just half an hour from Leeds, Ilkley offers a rich blend of history, scenic beauty, and a vibrant restaurant culture. Come for breakfast, dinner, tea and supper with us!
1. Thirty Nine Kitchen & Bakehouse
Thirty Nine Kitchen and Bakehouse Cafe, 39 The Grove Promenade, LS29 9NJ
A firm first on the list, Thirty Nine Kitchen and Bakehouse, a dog-friendly cafe in the heart of the town, serving breakfast, brunch, lunch and bakehouse delights.
The aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingles with the sweet scent of homemade cakes, setting the perfect backdrop for a leisurely breakfast.
We tried the iconic 39 breakfast, sweet pancakes, and a range of homemade cakes. We paired these with an autumnal pumpkin spiced latte and their best-selling spiced apple warmer juice for a perfect start to the day.
2. Emporio Italia
Emporio Italia, 7 Railway Rd, Ilkley LS29 8HQ
For over 30 years, Chef Luigi Pignanelli has been a hallmark of exceptional Italian cuisine in Yorkshire. His renowned restaurant, Emporio Italia, has become a major success on the local dining scene, often fully booked months in advance.
With every sitting, he passionately shares the stories behind his creations before returning to the kitchen to work his magic. From Tuesday to Saturday, Luigi, along with his wife Sam, their children Gianluca and Fabrizia, and their dedicated team, welcomes guests for lunchtime sittings.
We tried the Calabrian lasagne and the Linguine di Savelli, which effortlessly captured the essence of authentic Italian cooking. Each bite reveals layers of tender pasta and a hearty, spiced filling that transports you straight to Italy.
3. Ilkley Tap and Stuzzi
Home of Yorkshire’s very own Ilkley Brewery pale ale
After a stroll through the Ilkley riverside gardens to work up an appetite, we headed through the 19th century streets to the busy Ilkley Tap for a pit stop pint and a small plate or two from Stuzzi.
At Stuzzi’s kitchen, you can enjoy small plates, pizzette sandwiches, and flatbreads. They also serve breakfast daily and offer delicious Sunday roasts that are sure to impress.
Stuzzi in Ilkley Tap, 60 The Grove Promenade, LS29 9PA
Our feast included, deep-fried lasagna (pictured), meatballs, sausage and garlic pipettes and their iconic pasta crisps with a local ale.
4. Bettys Tearoom
Betty’s Tearoom, 32 The Grove Promenade, Ilkley LS29 9EE
Nestled beneath the breathtaking Ilkley Moor, the town invites you to Bettys, a haven of sweet treat of cakes and bakes. The Halloween-themed treats are a feast for the eyes, delicate white chocolate ghosts and rich, dark cupcakes, each one more tempting than the last.
Founded in 1919 by Frederick Belmont, Bettys seamlessly combines Swiss confectionery traditions with the warm hospitality of Yorkshire. Known for their afternoon tea experience that includes an assortment of finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones topped with clotted cream, and a tempting selection of pastries.
As the day came to a close, and with a belly full of good food and beverages, we walked over to Friends of Ham and wound down with a wine. Between us, we shared one of their legendary charcuterie and cheese boards, surrounded by the cosy and warm ambiance.
FoH is donned the place to go for post-work drinks, and the constantly busy bar speaks volumes for this. They also offer toasted sandwiches and fine produce of a high quality and standard, making this a firm favourite of places to eat in Ilkley.
Complimenting the boastful hospitality scene with beautiful parks, shopping, and entertainment options, Ilkley promises a delightful experience and we can see why it’s voted one of the best places to live.
Read our comprehensive list of must-try restaurants in Ilkley to find the best places to eat in Ilkley.
