Best Scarborough Restaurants, Events, News & Reviews

Having spent his career working in and running some of the best Scarborough restaurants, Chef Dan Hargreaves knew it was time to showcase the very best Yorkshire cuisine with Ember. Dan decided to head in a different direction to pub-style food, but rather chic, tentatively crafted dishes. Their menu changes in tune with the season, featuring modern British dishes with an international twist made from locally sourced produce.

With a menu on a smaller, yet refined scale, you can pair your main dish with a mouth-watering drink from their extensive cocktail list all made with local spirits. One restaurant-goer described her experience at Embers as, “Delicious food, beautifully presented, good sized portions, attentive service from the lovely staff, can’t fault it one bit, and can’t wait to return.”

138 Victoria Road, Scarborough, YO11 1SL – 01723 267 104

Going for almost 30 years strong, this Yorkshire showstopper has remained in place on the same site in Queen Street since 1997 when Chef-patron Giorgio Alessio purchased it. If you’re looking for Italian cuisine with an elegant and polished delivery, look no further! Giorgio’s sheer passion for composing Italian dishes that will leave you speechless stems from where he grew up in Piedmont, the northern region of Italy known for its sophisticated cuisine and wine.

It doesn’t matter which ingredients he uses, your love for a classic Italian risotto or pasta dish will grow even more after venturing to Lanterna. Enjoy the cosy and comfortable interior, and leave questioning why you took so long to visit Lanterna!

33 Queen St, Scarborough, YO11 1HQ – 01723 363 616

There’s no better way to create that sense of a warm, hospitable welcome than in a traditional British pub. With antique woodwork, a fireplace with old-fashioned furniture, and artwork that dates back decades, The Plough Inn truly embraces just that.

Situated in Scalby, a beautiful village approximately 3 miles north of Scarborough, the Plough Inn prides itself on its modern take on British dishes. The kitchen team delivers new and exciting flavours while using only the best local ingredients. Their Sunday menu is particularly special, using the finest prime topside of Yorkshire Beef. The renovated Garden Lounge also includes an extra space to unwind and dine in, offering the perfect space to meet with friends and loved ones.

21-23 High Street, Scalby, YO13 0PT – 01723 362 622

Something a tad more laid back, nonetheless still the most worthy of being an addition to our list of Scarborough restaurants sees The Yew Tree. Another Scalby venue that sits on the corner of High St, The Yew Tree Café presents a friendly and relaxed ambience with a range of freshly made bistro-style dishes.

From breakfast dishes to light bites and afternoon tea, and some delectable sweet treats, you can truly find every café desire here. While you may think its appearance is odd for a local cafe, The Yew Tree can welcome a great deal of guests with its warm hospitality. Sometimes less is more and with the simple yet homely layout, it’s well worth a visit on your next trip to Scarborough with a quick stop to try their extensive, and delicious offerings!

30-32 High Street, Scalby, YO13 0PT – 01723 367 989

This hidden gem had to feature on our list of the best Scarborough restaurants! This rare spot delivers a unique conjunction of dishes from a classic brunch menu to sandwiches and wraps to ramen and donburi. Their menu is nothing short of intriguing with plenty of seasonal changes. You must get your hands on current fixes like their delicious EMC Ramen Bowl made with homemade broth, pak choi, Chinese cabbage, spring onion, and finished with coriander and a half soy egg. Or their Korean fried chicken served over seasoned rice with sweet and spicy Dakgangjeong sauce, beansprouts, and cucumber.

Alternatively, on the British side, they offer a variety of burgers from a classic double smash steak burger to their famous vegan bean burger. With a warm, jazzy décor, sit back and fully relax with your friends and family with plates that scream Eat Me!

Stephen Joseph Theatre, Westborough, Scarborough, YO11 1JW – 07445 475 328

There’s sometimes nothing more alluring than dining somewhere that holds a tremendous level of history. The Farrier building is believed to have existed all the way back to 1066, and the indisputable luxury, modern touches, and high-end accommodation comforts prove the efforts of the renovation turnaround.

Placed on the gorgeous North Yorkshire Coast between Scarborough and Filey in the village of Cayton, the delightful dining experience that The Farrier offers showcases the highly talented chefs that Scarborough Restaurants possess. From breakfast to a light bite lunch, seasonal dinner menus and afternoon tea, this refined restaurant truly has it all!

89 Main Street, Cayton, Scarborough, YO11 3RP – 01723 861 432

Another addition to the best Scarborough Restaurants is a venue that is nothing short of strikingly stunning. Here at the Ox Pasture Hall Hotel set on 17 acres in North York Moors National Park, this polished hotel is a converted country house standing 3.7 miles from The Rotunda Museum and 3.1 miles from the Scarborough Open Air Theatre.

Opening in 2023, Thomas Carr @ The Coast celebrates the best of Yorkshire coasts’ seafood providing guests with a unique dining experience. Thomas brings his Michelin-starred experience to Scarborough, holding a prestigious star for over 7 years at his previous venture in Devon. Perfect for any special occasion, the modern and inventive menus can wow any tastebuds with 5 to 7-course tasting menus on offer. The ultimate dining experience if you ask me!

Lady Edith’s Drive, Scarborough, YO12 5TD – 01723 365 295

Gianni’s Restaurant is a standout in Scarborough’s dining scene, offering an authentic Italian culinary experience that blends tradition with modern flavours. Known for its warm, inviting atmosphere and exceptional service, Gianni’s specialises in classic Italian dishes like hand-stretched pizzas and pasta made with rich, savoury sauces.

The menu features high-quality ingredients and seasonal specialities, ensuring every dish is fresh and flavourful. Whether you’re looking for a cosy dinner for two or a special gathering with friends and loved ones, Gianni’s delivers a memorable dining experience that keeps locals coming back. Its combination of taste, ambience, and hospitality makes it one of Scarborough’s top dining destinations.

13 Victoria Rd, Scarborough YO11 1SB – 01723 507388

Licorella on York Place is a hidden gem in Scarborough, offering a refined dining experience with a focus on Mediterranean-inspired cuisine. The restaurant is known for its elegant yet relaxed atmosphere, making it perfect for both intimate dinners and special occasions.

Licorella’s menu showcases a variety of expertly crafted dishes, from fresh seafood and perfectly grilled meats to vibrant vegetarian options, all made with locally sourced and seasonal ingredients. With its sophisticated wine selection and impeccable service, Licorella provides a dining experience that feels both luxurious and welcoming, earning it a well-deserved spot among the best restaurants in Scarborough.

11 York Pl, Scarborough YO11 2NP – 07459 416675

Lookout on the Pier is a must-visit for anyone in Scarborough seeking a delightful seaside dining experience. Perched right on the pier, this restaurant offers breathtaking views of the harbour and coastline, enhancing its unique ambience. Specialising in fresh, locally sourced seafood, Lookout on the Pier serves up classic British dishes from fish and chips to seafood platters, and hearty chowders, all prepared with a modern twist.

The friendly, laid-back vibe combined with the unbeatable location makes it the perfect spot for a meal with family or friends, and it’s no surprise that it’s one of Scarborough’s most beloved dining destinations.

18 W Pier, Scarborough YO11 1PD – 01723 351000

It couldn’t be a ‘best restaurants in Scarborough’ guide without mentioning fish and chips! Recently listed as one of the best providers of the British delicacy in Yorkshire by The Times, The Tunny Club specialises in cooked-to-order fish and chips for the perfect teatime treat. The restaurant also features wooden benches and a historic fish bar with a surprisingly low ceiling if you fancy dining in. If you’re on the hunt for the best fish supper in Scarborough, The Tunny Club has to be on your list.

1 PE, 1 E Sandgate, Scarborough YO11 1PE