££Modern British
Named after an ocean liner known as 'The Ship Beautiful', The Aquitania is a delightfully intimate restaurant which upholds The Seaview Hotel’s proud culinary tradition. The team are warm and welcoming, and the wide-ranging menu bursts with the island’s artisan ingredients. As can be expected from a coastal restaurant, seafood plays an integral role, whether it's crispy crab beignets or a Friday fish & chips special.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.3/5 · 80 reviews
Aquitania offers modern British cuisine with seaview in Seaview. Based on 80 reviews averaging 4.3/5, food quality is a major highlight, with dishes like Sunday roast, crab terrine, and rump steak praised for flavor and presentation. However, some guests noted small portions or inconsistent quality depending on the chef. Service is generally friendly and professional, though occasional complaints cite slow pacing or staffing struggles. The ambiance features a limited menu in an elegant room with Solent views, but the setting in an old house near the hotel entrance feels less cozy to some. Value perceptions vary; while many find it reasonable, others consider it expensive relative to the experience.
Ideal for diners seeking refined modern British cuisine and sea views, with window seats recommended.
££Traditional British
This detached period house in an enviable position overlooking the Solent is the latest enterprise from renowned Isle of Wight chef Robert Thompson. Here, he has created an accessible bistro de luxe offering something for everyone: pies, burgers, steaks, pasta – you name it, they do it and pull it off with aplomb. The dishes may appear straightforward, but the care and technical skill of the chefs ensure they really deliver on flavour. A large garden makes for a perfect summer terrace and the friendly, unfussy service is pitched just right.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.2/5 · 80 reviews
RT Café Grill in Ryde offers traditional British cuisine with an average rating of 4.2/5. Positive reviews highlight excellent food quality, particularly for breakfast items, burgers, and seafood, alongside attentive service where staff assist with wine selections or accommodate elderly guests. The atmosphere and sea views are frequently praised. However, negative feedback cites issues with meal pacing, such as mains arriving before starters, and cramped seating during peak times. While some find the value questionable, the restaurant remains popular for its scenic setting and classic menu, suitable for tourists visiting nearby attractions like Osborne House.
Ideal for visitors seeking sea views and traditional British cuisine; booking ahead is recommended to avoid peak-hour crowding.