Whitby, England is a charming seaside town with a rich history and vibrant culinary scene. Whether you’re a foodie on the hunt for the best seafood, a fan of traditional British dishes, or just looking for a cozy spot to enjoy a seaside meal, Whitby has something to satisfy every craving. I loved my trip here in the spring, and made sure to visit as many locally recommended restaurants as possible. Here’s a dining guide to some of the best places to eat in Whitby for any occasion…

The Magpie Cafe

Let’s start with a Whitby classic – The Magpie Cafe. This seafood restaurant has been serving up the freshest catch since 1939, and it’s not hard to see why it’s become a local institution. The Magpie’s fish and chips are simply unbeatable, just make sure to arrive early to beat the crowds. They do take reservations for a limited amount of tables (reserving most for walk-ins), so I do recommend going online beforehand to try and grab a spot. I was impressed to see so many different types of fish on their menu, not just the classic cod or haddock used at most fish and chips eateries. However, while I was tempted to choose the halibut fillet, I did want to go with their classic cod and I was not disappointed in the slightest. It was incredibly fresh, perfectly crispy, and the well seasoned chips and mushy peas were the best sides. The service is also quick and very friendly, I would return in a heartbeat.

Humble Pie n Mash

Family-run Humble Pie n Mash is the coziest little eatery in the heart of town (housed in a 16th century building!), making it the perfect spot for a comforting meal after a day of exploring. As the name suggests, their specialty is hearty pies and mash, made with locally sourced ingredients. Their pies come in all kinds of flavors, from steak and ale to chicken and mushroom, and they’re all served with a generous helping of creamy mashed potatoes. They also offer vegetarian and vegan pie options which definitely sets them apart from most traditional pie places in England. Don’t miss their homemade gravy, it’s a game-changer! This is a small place that does not take reservations, so I recommend getting there on the earlier side, or placing a pick up order beforehand online if you’d like to east it elsewhere.

The White Horse & Griffin

If you’re looking for a more upscale dining experience in a quaint pub, The White Horse & Griffin is the place to be. This historic coaching inn dates back to the 18th century and has been beautifully restored. The setting is elegant yet relaxed, with a cozy fireplace and a charming courtyard garden. Their menu is a mix of classic British dishes with a modern twist, and everything is made from scratch using only the finest ingredients. While I cannot speak for their main menu, I can highly recommend their Sunday roast lunch menu. This is definitely one of the best Sunday roasts I’ve had in England, and the portions are very generous so come hungry. I would recommend making a reservation online, especially if you’re visiting on the weekend. Although not foodie related, next door to The White Horse & Griffin is a charming independent bookstore that I encourage everyone to visit: The Whitby Bookshop.

The Marine Bar & Restaurant

For a taste of local life on the harbor, head to The Marine Bar & Restaurant and admire the brightly painted exteriors before heading inside. They serve up classic British dishes, along with fresh seafood, a raw bar, and a great range of local ales and beers. The staff are friendly, the atmosphere is lively, and the food is hearty and satisfying. It’s the perfect place to relax and soak up the local culture. I actually ate here twice and loved their seafood linguini, with half a lobster, as well as their halibut fillet.

Cosa Nostra

If you want a break from British cuisine and are in the mood for Italian food in Whitby, Cosa Nostra is one of the best option. This intimate restaurant specializes in homemade pasta dishes, wood-fired pizzas, and delicious antipasti. A few of my personal favorites are the penne arrabbiata, lasagne, mortadella pizza, and their seafood risotto. You can expect the freshest ingredients and very filling portions from this family-run establishment.  hankfully, they take reservations through Resy which I highly recommend booking before you go!

Trenchers

Another must-visit for seafood lovers, Trenchers is a family-run restaurant that’s been serving up the freshest fish and chips since 1980. You’ll instantly feel at home here, thanks to their five-star service and cozy booths with Tiffany lampshades. Their menu is extensive and features everything from classic cod and haddock to a halloumi burger or sweet potato and spinach curry.  Please don’t leave without ordering their seafood chowder, this was one of the highlights of my entire trip to Whitby! Trenchers is also known for their fish and chips here, winning the UK’s Best Fish & Chips Restaurant in 2019. While they do not take reservations, it is absolutely worth the wait.

Pizza West

Last but not least, Pizza West is a great dining option that’s slightly out of the hustle and hustle of Whitby, but just a short walk away on the West Cliff. This stylish yet laid-back pizzeria serves up delicious wood-fired, sourdough pizzas with all kinds of toppings, from classic margherita to more unusual options like nduja or peach + burrata. Their menu is very seasonal too so you can always expect something fun and fresh. They also have a wonderful selection of craft beers and cocktails, making it the perfect spot for a date night or special occasion. I would recommend making reservations online.