Exploring the South Coast of the UK on a Solent Yacht Charter is an adventure filled with stunning views and, more importantly, delightful dining experiences.
Here are our top places to eat on the Solent that you shouldn’t miss, each offering unique flavours and a memorable experience.
Cowes, Isle of Wight
Smoking Lobster, Cowes
If you love seafood but fancy something with a twist, Smoking Lobster is a must‑try. Their menu blends the freshest Isle of Wight catch with bold Pan‑Asian flavours – think miso‑glazed lobster, crispy tempura soft‑shell crab and sizzling wasabi king prawns. The cocktails are just as inventive, with local spirits getting a creative makeover. Nab a table with harbour views and you’ve got the perfect sunset dinner spot after a day’s sailing.
Find out more about Smoking Lobster
Coast Bar & Dining Room, Cowes
Coast is a relaxed yet stylish restaurant where you can happily linger for hours. The menu has something for everyone – creamy seafood linguine, perfectly seared rib‑eye steak, and fresh salads piled high with seasonal produce. They’re also known for their tempting dessert menu and creative cocktails, so it’s a great choice for both a celebratory evening or a lazy weekend lunch.
Find out more about Coast Bar & Dining Room
Island Sailing Club, Cowes
You don’t have to be a member to enjoy this Cowes institution. With panoramic views across the Solent, it’s a brilliant place to watch the racing or soak up harbour life. Expect classic British dishes done right – beer‑battered cod and chips, hearty fish pie, or warming cottage pie – plus indulgent puds like sticky toffee or apple crumble. It’s traditional, comforting and full of sailing charm.
Find out more about The Island Sailing Club
Pontoon View, Cowes
Perfect for a more casual bite, Pontoon View is a cosy café right on the water. Grab a hearty breakfast before setting sail – bacon baps, full English plates or fresh pastries – or pop in for lunch and tuck into crab sandwiches, prawn salads and homemade cakes.
The big draw here is the people‑watching, as you can sit with a coffee and watch the yachts glide by.
Find out more about Pontoon View
RORC (Royal Ocean Racing Club), Cowes
The Royal Ocean Racing Club is steeped in history and has a fantastic waterside restaurant open to non‑members at certain times. It’s the place to enjoy a smart yet relaxed meal after a long day at sea – think fresh catch of the day, gourmet burgers, or a beautifully plated fillet steak. The atmosphere is always buzzing with sailing chat, and the views from the dining room make it even more special.
Find out more about RORC
Yarmouth, Isle of Wight
The Hut, Yarmouth
This is a Solent dining icon – and half the fun is arriving by tender straight to their private pontoon.
The Hut’s laid‑back, beach‑club vibe is matched with seriously good food: grilled lobster with garlic butter, towering seafood platters, fresh burrata with heritage tomatoes and zingy ceviche. Order a bottle of chilled rosé, kick back in the sun, and you’ll feel like you’ve been whisked away to the Med.
Find out more about The Hut
The George, Yarmouth
The George, Yarmouth
The George is a historic hotel with a beautiful restaurant right on the waterfront. The setting is elegant but still relaxed, with a menu that makes the most of local produce – freshly shucked oysters, pan‑roasted seabass with seasonal greens, and rich, decadent desserts. In summer, the garden is perfect for drinks, while cooler days call for a cosy seat indoors by the fire.
Find out more about The George
Lymington
The Haven, Lymington
Located right by the marina, The Haven offers a stylish, airy space to enjoy fresh, seasonal dishes. Moules marinière with crusty bread, pan‑fried scallops, and chargrilled steaks are all popular picks.
In warm weather, their terrace is the place to be, with uninterrupted views of the river and boats drifting past. It’s ideal for both a romantic dinner and a celebratory crew night.
Find out more about The Haven
Hamble-le-Rice
The River Rat, Hamble
Tucked away by the water, The River Rat is small, friendly and full of character. They serve fresh, unfussy dishes such as seafood chowder, steak frites, and warm goat’s cheese salads. Pair it with a crisp white wine and enjoy the peaceful river views – it’s a great escape from the busier marina bars.
Find out more about The River Rat
Banana Wharf, Hamble
Fun, friendly and right on the marina, Banana Wharf is all about relaxed dining with a lively buzz. The menu ranges from seafood platters to spicy prawn linguine and their famous BBQ ribs. Add a colourful cocktail or two and you’ve got the perfect end to a day’s sailing, especially if you grab a table outside for those golden‑hour views.
Find out more about Banana Wharf
The Bugle, Hamble
A proper sailor’s pub at the heart of Hamble village, The Bugle is a lively and welcoming spot. The menu features classics like beer‑braised short rib, fish and chips, and hearty Sunday roasts, all washed down with local ales or a good glass of wine. It’s equally good for a quick bite or a long evening of swapping sailing tales with fellow boaters.
Find out more about The Bugle
Whether you’re in the mood for a gourmet experience or a casual family meal, these top places to eat on the Solent offer something for everyone. From delicious seafood to hearty steaks, your taste buds are in for a treat.
Contact the team today to book your Solent Yacht Charter
