Journal

12 Best Restaurants in Staithes

North Yorkshire is home to some of the very best restaurants in the United Kingdom. Whether you’re looking for Michelin star fayre or fast food on the go, you’ll find what you’re looking for here.  

The Best Restaurants in Staithes

Nestled in the northeast corner of the North York Moors National Park is the postcard-perfect seaside town of Staithes.

It’s no surprise that some of the best restaurants in Staithes specialise in fresh seafood – but there’s lots more on top. Whether you’re staying in Staithes or making the trip from nearby Whitby or Saltburn-by-the-sea, you’ll find some amazing restaurants waiting for you. 

So, let’s look at the best Staithes places to eat for all tastes…


The Best Places to Eat in Staithes

A burger and chips on a tray in a restaurant


Captain Cook Inn

Locals know this pub and restaurant affectionately as The Cook. It’s named after one of Staithes’ most famous residents, Captain James Cook, who called Staithes home before setting off around the world. Many of the best activities in Staithes include Cook’s name – making it a great choice for history fans.

The Captain Cook Inn offers an excellent choice of freshly prepared food. You can sit in their dining room or head outside in the summer sun. The Cook is known for its generous portions – whether it’s fresh seafood, a hearty pie or their famous Sunday roast, make sure you’re hungry before visiting.


Cleveland Corner Cafe

If you’re looking for a cosy bistro cafe with friendly staff, look no further than the Cleveland Corner. It’s a small, quaint place that serves a range of foods to eat in or take away. We recommend trying their speciality fish dishes (and getting an ice cream to take away after!)


Cod and Lobster

Next, we head to the Cod and Lobster on Church Street. You might not find a Staithes restaurant with a more dramatic location – during stormy weather or choppy seas, you might have to dodge wave spray to get to the restaurant. Many locals refer to it as ‘the dash’.

Once you’re inside, though, you’ll have plenty of time to settle down and warm up. There’s usually a roaring open fire, with spectacular harbour views through the window. On the menu, you’ll find seafood classics, including a delicious crab sandwich at lunch. We also highly recommend the seafood kebab for dinner.

An external view of the cod and lobster in Staithes


Dotty’s Tea Room

Looking for afternoon tea in Staithes? Then may we recommend heading to Dotty’s Tea Room. It’s located on Staithes High Street, serving all the British classics like scones, sandwiches and various types of cake. You can sit in and enjoy your tea from Dotty’s classic china, or take it away and enjoy in your cottage. Either way, Dotty’s offers the classic British afternoon tea experience.


Endeavour Restaurant

Named after Captain Cook’s famous ship, the Endeavour is a gorgeous little seafood restaurant hidden away from the hustle and bustle. In fact, they often operate as a pop-up restaurant, so double-check before visiting.

Over the years, the Endeavour has been highly recommended by the Good Food Guide and the Sunday Times – high praise indeed. Don’t miss their Yorkshire puddings if you visit!


Excelsior Fisheries

Head up Staithes Lane to find Excelsior Fisheries. The clue is in the name – the Excelsior serves everything from classic fish and chips to fishcakes, sausages and pies. If you’re searching for classic fish and chips on your North Yorkshire seaside break, look no further.

Fish and chips on a plate with mushy peas in a restaurant


Fox and Hounds, Dalehouse

The next on our list of restaurants in Staithes requires a little trip out – but it’s well worth it. Located just on the edge of town, the Fox and Hounds in Dalehouse is a hidden gem of the North Yorkshire pub scene. In fact, it’s the definition of a classic British pub.

Roaring fires, a choice of ales, and an incredible Sunday lunch are all on offer. If you’ve spent the day at nearby Sandsend or Runswick Bay, then head over for well-earned refreshments.


Royal George

If you’re looking for a pub and restaurant back in Staithes town, then consider the Royal George. Nestled at the bottom of the village, the Royal George is a gorgeous pub serving real ales and delicious pub grub within a stone’s throw of the sea.

On the menu, you’ll find excellent value options – from the warming steak and ale pie to delicious fresh crab dishes. They also cater for a wide range of dietary requirements. If you’re after entertainment, the Royal George also offers themed and quiz nights regularly.


Seadrift Cafe

Another classic cafe in Staithes is the Seadrift, just along Church Street. You can eat inside or sit in their outdoor seating area (weather permitting). The coffees at the Seadrift are legendary – with the espressos a big hit with any visitor. There is a great choice of cakes and snacks, with sweets and ice creams for the kids.

Five friends toasting mugs of coffee around a table in a cafe


The Best Restaurants Near Staithes

Heading out of Staithes for the day? Then why not try these nearby restaurants?


Estbek House, Sandsend near Whitby

If you’re after something a bit special, why not try Estbek House, in Sandsend near Whitby. It’s a multi-award winning restaurant, with an amazing choice of drinks and food – and friendly Yorkshire service. It has held an AA 2 Rosette Award for Culinary Excellence for many years, showing the cooking skill and range of options on offer.

If fine dining with views of the North Sea sounds like your thing, then get planning. Estbek House can be busy – so we recommend booking ahead.


The Badger Hounds, Hinderwell

Located in the North Yorkshire coastal village of Hinderwell is The Badger Hounds, a gastro pub that’s extremely popular with visitors walking The Cleveland Way. Serving all the classics like British pub grub, breakfasts and burgers, the friendly Badger Hounds staff will make you feel right at home.

Someone cutting a fried egg on their english breakfast at a table


Hinderwell Fish & Chip Shop

If you’re in Hinderwell and fancy fish and chips instead, then try the Hinderwell Fish and Chip Shop. It’s located on the High Street and waiting to serve you all the British chippy classics – it’s also a regular winner of TripAdvisor’s travellers’ choice awards, with visitors mentioning the crispy batter, delicious chips and friendly service.


Already started planning your trip to Staithes? Don’t miss out. Browse our selection of stunning Staithes holiday cottages today. 

For inspiration on where to stretch your legs, give our guide on 5 scenic walks in Staithes a read.