Our Isle of Wight food blog and events

Spring (Pub) Watch

Whatever time of year, you can’t beat a walk that culminates in a good pub lunch. Spring offers mild weather, pretty scenery and if you are lucky, a stint in a sunny pub garden. Inns of Distinction have pubs on some of the Islands most popular walks. Throw in the... read more →

Out of the vase and onto the plate…

Instantly making a meal look more impressive, a simple flower can add depth and taste to your dish. Edible flowers have been used for years in cooking and food decorating, with some of the earliest recipes tracing back to 3000 B.C when the Chinese were the first to experiment. Today,... read more →

Can cook will cook

With such an abundance of great places to eat out on the Island, from quirky little bistros to the classic pub grub, you will never run out of new places to try on your holiday. However, sometimes it is nice to have a relaxing meal in, and when the mood... read more →

Island Grown

With Matt Noyce, Head Gardener and Estate Manager at Quarr Abbey. Matt is back discussing the benefits of buying local on the Isle of Wight and where to enjoy seeing the Island’s produce being grown... “Living on one of the most southernmost parts of the UK does have its benefits.... read more →

But first…Coffee

Coffee – most of us can’t get through the day without a cup or two. Whilst we all love picking up a cuppa from our favourite coffee shop, it is nice to be able to create something similar at home now and then. Dan Burgess from Island Roasted artisan coffee... read more →

At the source

Eating at the source of the produce is a huge trend that is only seems to be growing for 2018. Here on the Isle of Wight, we are lucky to have several places that enable you to eat or drink where the produce is being ‘created’. One of the early... read more →

Around the Island in drinks…

Ok, we are certainly not suggesting that you drink your way around the Island, but with a reliable bus service and a fair few places to try, you could give it a good go! Our trip takes you clockwise around the Island, looking at the various local producers who specialise... read more →

And pooch came too…

We’re very doggie-friendly here on the Isle of Wight, so there’s no need to leave the pooch behind when you go out for something to eat. Here’s our pick of just some of the fabulous places that will welcome your four-legged friend… Pedallers The only café directly on the popular... read more →

Guide to Ryde…

Have you got your ticket to Ryde? (sorry!) but once you have seen the array of restaurants, pubs and beachfront cafés, you certainly won’t be in any rush to leave. Much of the places to go are centred around the vibrant Union Street. Here, try one of the latest offerings,... read more →

Have you picked up your copy of spring Taste of the Wight yet?

With the sunny (hooray!) Bank Holiday nearly upon us, make sure to pick up the latest copy of Taste of the Wight, the perfect companion when heading out and about. It is all too easy to get stuck in a rut of going to the same few places to eat... read more →

Here comes the sun – our guide on where to get the best spot this Bank Holiday…

Finally, our prayers have been answered and a sunny Bank Holiday is on the cards. Make the most of the expected warmer weather with our pick of 5 places to soak up the sun this weekend! #1 Surely high up on everyones list, The Spyglass Inn is a great place to... read more →

Guide to Cowes

Well-known for sailing and all the jollyness that goes with it (ok yes, drinking) Cowes is a lively town where you will find an array of places to eat and drink. The Anchor is one of the most popular pubs in Cowes, especially on a Friday night where you will... read more →

Under the Sea

You can’t visit an island and not take advantage of the waters that surround it, especially when they are filled with some of the tastiest seafood around, as well as providing hours of relaxation and entertainment for those keen to take a closer look at what lies beneath... If it’s... read more →

Get your bake on at The Boathouse this spring

The third annual Boathouse bake-off takes place on Saturday 21st April and open to all, whether you are a complete novice or could give Mary Berry a run for her money. New for 2018, The Boathouse will be hosting two classes with one for under 14s. All bakes are welcome,... read more →

Show your support for IW Pride with a pint…

Goddards Brewery is proud to be supporting UK Pride, taking place in Ryde on the 21st July 2018 and in collaboration with IW Pride has released a special edition beer in celebration. Called ‘Island Pride’, a percentage of all sales will go directly back to the Isle of Wight Pride... read more →

Our MP Bob Seeley rates the Island’s foodie scene

At the recent tourism conference that took place in March, Isle of Wight MP Bob Seeley spoke of his enthusiasm and praise for our foodie scene. In his video address, he is seen praising the Island's food sector, pubs and restaurants, stating that they are getting it right and appealing to our... read more →

Get your fill of Easter Eggs…

How is it Easter already? Well, Spring hasn't quite sprung just yet with snow still on the ground, but in little over a week, you will be stuffing your faces with chocolate eggs, hopefully in the sunshine! Easter eggs symbolise new life at springtime and have been a part of Easter... read more →

Celebrate this St Patrick’s Day…

In the bleak of March, you can be forgiven for thinking that there is not much going on, but you would have overlooked possibly one of the most widely celebrated days of the year! St Patrick's Day is celebrated annually on 17th March and often involves pints of Guinness, bright... read more →

Take your mother out…Our Guide to Mothering Sunday on the Isle of Wight

It's time to spoil your mum rotten with Mothering Sunday on Sunday 11th. Here is our guide to where to take your mama out all night... Over at The George in Yarmouth, treat your Mother to a delicious Mother’s Day lunch in The Conservatory, overlooking the Solent. All Mums will receive a... read more →

Gastronomy Cowes set to open next weekend

There are exciting times ahead for Cowes High Street as a new restaurant and bar will open its doors at 46-47 High St on Saturday 17th February. Gastronomy Cowes will offer up exciting dishes with global influences, providing good food, good drinks and good times. Gastronomy Cowes allows guests to... read more →

What to Grow now – February

FEBRUARY Now is when the garden starts to emerge from its wintry slumber. If the weather is dry enough and not too ‘puggy’ (a great word used to describe sticky, waterlogged soil), try and get on the vegetable plot to dig it over, get rid of any spent foliage and... read more →

The Mermaid opens as the new home of the Isle of Wight Distillery

What was the former site of the Wishing Well pub, is opening its doors tonight as the new home of the Isle of Wight Distillery. The 'Mermaid' has been completely transformed into a fully working distillery complete with a cocktail bar and shop for all your gin and vodka needs!... read more →

Be mine, Valentine – where to enjoy this February

It's nearly that time of year, when roses are in the shops and love is in the air. But for all the fluffy teddies and balloons, we reckon the way to everyone's heart is most certainly through their stomach! Here is our round-up of where to eat this Valentines... read more →

Island food businesses say no to plastic

The move towards banning pointless plastic in packaging of food and drink is something that many are campaigning for and the latest food businesses to add their support to the campaign are Lady Scarlett's Tea House and The Smoking Lobster on Ventnor seafront, French Franks and The Farm Shop in Bembridge.... read more →

New year, new taste – our guide to what to try in January

Shaking of the old and in with the new can be applied to anything, especially your dining options if you have found yourself in a rut of always going to the same old places. Here is our guide to some new and rediscover places to explore in 2018. The Crab &... read more →

What to Grow Now – January

JANUARY As this is one of the coldest months, plants and shrubs can be protected from winter frosts with fleece and polythene sheets if this has not already been done. With Christmas only just behind you it is time to think again about treating yourself... to a seed catalogue! Start... read more →

Bring on 2018 – 5 ways to be healthier in 2018!

It's all over, the turkey has been reincarnated in sandwiches and curries and the prosecco is no longer taking up valuable room in the fridge. As fun as it was, it is nice to step away from the excess of December and start the New Year afresh with some healthy... read more →

A look back over the years…

It's the time of year when we like to reflect and look back over the year. We thought we would take it one step further and look over our very own Taste of the Wight and where we have come from, to where we are now. It is only when... read more →

Around the World this Christmas…

The festive season is celebrated differently in every home, let alone every country. Here are some of the more unique ways people will be celebrating around the world this year: In Japan, sitting down to a traditional Christmas dinner means tucking into a KFC! Every Christmas season, an estimated 3.6... read more →

What to get the man (or lady) who has everything?

For that person who has everything, finding something different can prove a real headache, and who in their right mind enjoys trawling around the shops aimlessly this close to Christmas? No, us neither. Thankfully, the lovely folk at Goddards Brewery have the remedy. We are sure that that person with... read more →

Winter Warmer at Quarr Abbey

The lovely folks at the teashop at Quarr Abbey are giving you something to fight off the January blues, with their Winter Warmer Special, which will be available throughout January 2018. Enjoy a bracing walk around the stunning grounds of the Abbey, before settling down for a spot of lunch in the... read more →

Caffe Isola opens flagship Cafe-Roastery

Caffe Isola has been a fixture in Newport for as long as most can remember, first starting off in Watchbell Lane in 2006, before relocating to Pyle Street where people have met for coffee, cakes and light lunches for the past 11 years. Owned by Dan and his Italian wife Viviana, today... read more →

20 Years celebration for Grace’s Bakery

This Saturday (2nd December) sees Graces Bakery turn a whopping 20 years old! Originally opened back in December 1997 when Ray and his wife Carole opened the first of five shops in Ryde, in what was an old flour-mill. Times have changed and they have gone from strength to strength... read more →

What to Grow Now – December

DECEMBER With much of the harvested haul safely in and the rest of the vulnerable crops protected, it is worth regularly checking the crates and clamps for damaged fruit and veg that will not last. December is a good time to consider planting fruit trees and shrubs as long as... read more →

12 Days of Christmas

As we approach the holiday season, what better way to kick off December than with our own version of the 12 Days of Christmas. During December, we have 12 fabulous prizes to giveaway as a pre-Christmas treat from us to you! Make sure that you like our Facebook page and... read more →

Much ado about stuffing – Where to enjoy a roast dinner on the Isle of Wight

Enjoying a roast in the winter time has got to be one of life’s little pleasures - especially if you have not got to cook it or do any of the washing up after! There are many places on the Island that offer a roast - whether it the traditional... read more →

All the gear and some idea – foraging as it should be…

The fun of foraging knows no bounds - there is something deeply satisfying about tucking into something that you not only cooked yourself, but also found, picked, plucked or - perhaps more easily, cut. Foraging is made all the easier when a) you know what you are doing, and b)... read more →

Tchin tchin ! Beaujolais Nouveau

Possibly the world's largest wine bash, Beaujolais Nouveau takes place on the third Thursday of November, this year falling on the 16th November. This is the date the Beaujolais Nouveau hits the shelves worldwide - retailers are not allowed to sell this year's vintage before this date. Beaujolais is a... read more →

Surfs up!

It's the time of year for gloves, a hat and…a wetsuit? Yep, when the weather is colder, generally the surf is up. Feel your toes again after a dip, at some of our top picks for a post-surf warm-up: Isle of Wight Pearl is Close to the surf mecca of... read more →

Bang Bang

Put some bang in your Bonfire Night party with some classic outdoor food, perfect for sharing and warming up with... The humble spud comes into its element as a tasty traditional baked potato. Prepare earlier in the day, rub in olive oil, sea salt and some garlic butter, wrap in... read more →

What to Grow Now – November

It could be thought that because the sun doesn’t shine quite so much in the winter months, the vegetable plot is mothballed and shut down until the warmer spring spells in the following year. Oh no, if this were the case, there would be no home-grown sprouts available on the... read more →

Taste of the Wight Christmas Goodies…

As we welcome November in, some of the most organised amongst us have most certainly started their Christmas shopping already, perhaps even finished it! Here at Taste of the Wight, we want to take the stress and strain out of the perils of frantic shopping and have tided up our... read more →

Art meets food with Lilly Louise Allen

For our final publication of 2017, we were super excited to feature local artist, Lilly Louise Allen. Check it our in all its festive glory on page 58! In this Illustration, Lilly wanted to explore the tasty treats of Christmas including some festive classics, a few new delicacies to consider adding to the table and of... read more →

I was working as a waitress in a Cocktail Bar…

As the classic 80s song goes, and cocktail bars are still as popular today. As the holiday season approaches, be it Halloween, Bonfire Night, Christmas or New Year, the backdrop of an elegant cocktail bar is the perfect setting for catching up with friends, enjoying a works night out or just... read more →

Taste of the Wight Winter 2017 has landed

We have been busying away behind the scenes at Taste of the Wight, working on our latest edition which should be hitting the shelves right about now. This is our second year of producing a winter edition and we must say, we love it, even if it does get us... read more →

Go Forth and Forage!

We have recently bumped into Vanessa Bilton, one of the most prolific foragers on the Island, and picked her brain as to what to pick now. Here is her guide to what to forage on the Isle of Wight this autumn/winter: The nights are drawing in and the days are... read more →

Three ways with a Pumpkin

Happy Halloween... Far more than just a decoration at Halloween, once carved make the most of the tasty orange treat with our three ways with pumpkin: Grate into a cake - add to cinnamon for lightly spiced cupcakes, or substitute for your favourite carrot cake recipe. Or bake into an... read more →

Get set for a Gastronomic Tour with The Royal

The popular Gastronomic Tour is returning to The Royal on the 3rd and 4th November. Building on the previous years success, start your gourmet weekend with  a Gin and Tonic tasting, hosted by the Isle of Wight Distillery, who use hand-picked samphire, with an infusion of carefully selected botanicals,  to give... read more →

The Wheels on the Bus…

Go round and round - and so can you this coming weekend! The weekend of the 14th and 15th October is the 4th Isle of Wight Classic Buses, Beer and Walks Weekend. One of the Island's favourite events is brought to you by the Isle of Wight branch of CAMRA... read more →

It’s chocolate week!

Forget Halloween and Christmas... It's chocolate week! Surely, just like us you have had this marked in your diary since the beginning of the year? The perfect excuse to emerge yourself in all things chocolaty, for an entire week, and with a weeks worth of chocolate days to get through... read more →

Reasons to be cheerful are three – at The Seaview Hotel

The Restaurant at the Seaview Hotel has reason to celebrate this week thanks to being awarded a prestigious Michelin Bib Gourmand for the third consecutive year. The Bib Gourmand, created by Michelin in 1997 in recognition of affordable and creative dining, is regarded as to be as noteworthy as the... read more →

Happy Halloween…

As October creeps closer, you won't be able to move for pumpkins in the fields, farm shops and soon to be gazing out at your from windowsills and doorsteps across the Island. But where did this tradition come from, and why has the humble pumpkin become a symbol for the... read more →

New Menu for Three Buoys

Taste of the Wight were excited to be invited along to the launch of the Three Buoys brand new menu at the end of last week. Frequent visitors to the beachside restaurant (with possibly one of the best views on the Island, especially after dark) will know that it already... read more →

A brand new Cider & Cheese event at the IW Steam Railway

Brand new for 2017, the Isle of Wight Steam Railway are hosting a Cider and Cheese weekend on the 23rd and 24th September. To celebrate Isle of Wight Day, entry is free and there will be free workshop tours on both days. When put together, cider and cheese are a... read more →

Hop, Hop, Hooray

The Island has a long history of brewing and in the 1800s, it was the 5th largest hops producing county in the UK, supplying the naval port of Portsmouth. As times changed and moved on, hop production ceased and the plants all but vanished, save for a few  rogue escapees... read more →

A Proper Pub…

In days gone by, the idea of eating in a pub was pretty remote. There was a time when pubs served nothing but drinks, and maybe the odd packet of crisps or peanuts that parents would dish out to kids whilst they sat in the car and waited for mum... read more →

Gluten Free Island

For those that suffer with gluten intolerance, the idea of going out for a meal can cause more problems than it seems worth. However, dining establishments are fast responding to the fact that not everyone can eat the same things and are producing dishes and menus that allow everyone to... read more →

Ground up restoration…Fresh coffee at IW Steam Railway

A British Rail A-Container has been transformed into a barista-style coffee shop thanks to Isle of Wight Steam Railway. The latest restoration project completed by the Isle of Wight Steam Railway has given an entirely new lease of life to an old British Rail container that was originally built in 1957.... read more →

We do like to be beside the seaside…

Being surrounded by water, we have more than our fair share of places to eat and drink whilst enjoying a stunning view of the sea. Here’s our pick of places to make a beeline for and enjoy a splash of saltwater… Driftwood Beach Bar: Feel like you are on a tropical... read more →

Zanna Van Dijk & Healthy Chef Steph enjoy a Taste of the Wight

Well-known bloggers, Zanna Van Dijk and Healthy Chef Steph (Stephanie Elswood) enjoyed a trip over to our lovely Isle of Wight this weekend. Famous for their health, fitness and lifestyle blogs, they clock up an impressive 330k followers between them, and where they go, their followers tend to follow suit.... read more →

The love of a BBQ…

If you are the King (or Queen) of the grill, then chances are you will be flicking on the switch, lighting the flame or fanning the charcoal this weekend. The worlds oldest cooking method and possibly still one of the most popular, cooking outdoors is great fun. Not much says... read more →

More awards, this time for Island Brewery!

There was more great news for the Isle of Wight's local produce this week, with Island Brewery announcing that their well-known and loved beer, Earls RDA has won the coveted 'Best Stout in the United Kingdom' at the World Beer Awards. The competition is always notoriously tough, and the whole... read more →

Local Great Taste Winners

Six local producers had much to celebrate over the weekend, as they found out that they had won Great Taste Awards from the Guild of Fine Food late last week. The awards originated in 1994 and are recognised as being the benchmark for fine food and drink. The logo is instantly... read more →

There is nothing more British than fish and chips….

Freshly cooked, piping hot, smothered in salt and vinegar - they simply cannot be beaten! But they are more than just a tasty treat - did you know that fish and chips are also good for us nutritionally? Fish and chips are a valuable source of protein, fibre, iron and... read more →

Keep the little ones amused..

You may think you are in charge but we all know it’s the kids really! Keep them happy with our pick of places guaranteed to entertain, whilst you relax with a cuppa…   The Caulkheads in Sandown is perfect whatever the weather. If the sun is shining then make the... read more →

What to Grow Now

Matt Noyce, Head Gardener at Quarr Abbey (that's a lotta garden...) is back with some more top tips for your summer fruit and veg patch… Without trying to dramatise the humble vegetable plot too much, summer growing season is the rollercoaster ride of the horticultural calendar. The early summer months... read more →

A brand new cheese…

It's exciting times at Isle of Wight Cheese Co as they have unveiled their brand new cheese, Blue Slipper. A pasteurised, naturally rinded soft blue cheese which is a much softer version of their bestselling Isle of Wight Blue, but with no internal veining. Named after the famous gault clay that is found in... read more →

Diners Club at Quay Arts

We do love a nice meal out here at Taste, and were lucky enough this week to be invited to the brand spanking new 'Diners Club' at Quay Arts in Newport. Many people already know the Quay Arts for its tasty lunchtime offerings- think homemade soup, quiches and delicious cakes that... read more →

Yummy Yarmouth…

One of the gateway’s to the Isle of Wight, Yarmouth is a bustling market town. The rich history is evident as you walk around - take a stroll along the Grade II listed pier for stunning views across the Solent (a perfect spot for fishing), or visit Yarmouth Castle, tucked... read more →

Under the Sea

You can’t visit an island and not take advantage of the waters that surround it, especially when they are filled with some of the tastiest seafood around, as well as providing hours of relaxation and entertainment for those keen to take a closer look at what lies beneath... If it’s... read more →

Art meets food (or drink in this case!)

Each edition, we look forward to unveiling the latest local artist to feature in Taste of the Wight and our summer edition is no exception. This season's artwork comes courtesy of our youngest artist yet, Jess Jolliffe. Jess is a freelance illustrator from the Isle of Wight who recently graduated from... read more →

Our Summer edition has landed!

Our main summer edition has landed in the Taste HQ and will be winging its way out and about very soon. For this edition, we focused on everything that is great about food and drink on the Isle of Wight in the hotter months. You will find articles on our seafood -... read more →

National Cream Tea Day

One of life's simple pleasures, the cream tea is a perfect treat to brighten up your day. Whether you sit on the side of jam or cream first, we can all agree on the more the better! The Isle of Wight boasts many places famed for their cream teas, take... read more →

All aboard at The Seaview Hotel as new Head Chef revealed

The Seaview Hotel, an award-winning independent coastal hotel on the Isle of Wight, has announced Liam Howes to succeed Bruce Theobald as head chef. Liam, only 24, has been promoted from sous chef and will lead the... read more →

Truly local beer…

The Isle of Wight is lucky to have such high quality breweries and now Goddards and Yates are working in partnership to produce some of the Island’s best loved beer. Goddards Brewery have a recent history of successful collaborations, including the popular Ventnor Botanic Gardens Botanic Pale Ale and the... read more →

Isle of Wight Produce Night at The Spinnaker

Taste of the Wight were very kindly invited along to The Spinnaker's latest 'Isle of Wight Produce Night'. The Spinnaker in Bembridge is a venue that champions local produce and regularly uses ingredients sourced locally in a variety of their dishes, so we were super excited to be given a... read more →

I Love Wight Market

Having a definite love for local food we were really excited to hear that popular I Love Wight Market was back and now even bigger and better than before, having teamed up with the folk at Rectory Mansion to put on a monthly local produce market. We spoke to organiser... read more →

Stunning Seaview, unforgettable food…

When you go on holiday, other than where you are staying and what to pack, food must be pretty high up on the agenda. Food and drink is social, the getting together and enjoying a meal, maybe with a bottle of wine, transcends across cultures and generations. A memorable meal... read more →

Perk up with some locally roasted coffee!

Local coffee lovers rejoice, there's a new blend in town... At the beginning of April 2017, the team at The Island Tea & Coffee Co. invested in a coffee roasting machine, which will bring the Island’s businesses some of the freshest coffee available. With 35 years of coffee history behind... read more →

RibHaus Takeover

We have your bank holiday weekend (yes, can you believe there is another coming already!) as RibHaus, based in Sweden, takeover The Little Gloster on Bank Holiday Monday 29th May between 12pm - 5pm. Chef Joe Morris from RibHaus, who originates from the Island is bringing his take on the... read more →

Sun, sand and The Hut

You know that summer is well on its way when The Hut opens its doors (and snazzy new roof) to the masses. The opening of the restaurant, nestled right on the shore at Colwell Bay, heralds the start of warmer days enjoying lazy lunches in the sun, and the lighter, longer nights... read more →

Delicious news for The Tomato Stall!

The Tomato Stall’s Speciality Isle of Wight Tomatoes have been selected as the London and South East regional finalist, and have therefore made it through to the finals of the delicious. Magazine Produce Awards 2017. The Produce Awards are a celebration of Britain’s best producers, growers and farmers. As well as their... read more →

Foraged flavours at Heima

If you have seen some people picking unusual flowers, digging in hedgerows or pocketing seaweed on the beach, then chances are you have just seen the team from Heima prepping for their evening service! Heima opened in November 2016 in the old waxworks building in Brading. Heading up the team... read more →

Award-winning oak-aged gin to be launched on board HMS Victory

The Isle of Wight Distillery’s limited edition Oak Aged HMS Victory Navy Strength Gin is ready for its second release on the 7th May, having been aged for a further seven months, making a total of 12 months. The gin will be launched at a special event which will be... read more →

A Taste of Poland in Cowes with ORP Blyskawica

The town of Cowes will be celebrating the 75th anniversary of the defence of Cowes and East Cowes by the Polish destroyer, ORP Blyskawica. The weekend event marks the anniversary of when Cowes and East Cowes were attacked during the second world war. The ORP Blyskawica was in Cowes for... read more →

From Grain to Glass

Here at Taste of the Wight we are never one to turn down the chance to learn more about beer, especially if it involves a behind the scenes tour of a local brewery. For anyone that has an interest in beer or the brewing process itself, the ins and outs... read more →

Third wave coffee on on the shores of the Island

With the UK Coffee Week kicking off on Monday 10th April, we thought it would be a great time  to take a closer look and the people behind our lattes and macchiato's. The third wave of coffee is a term coined for the surge of independent, artisanal, barista-made coffee. Apparently, it is... read more →

Taste of Portsmouth is coming…

Did you know we are soon to be launching a sister publication, Taste of Portsmouth? As part of this, our team ont' mainland, are getting ready for a very special day in Southsea this month. The 10th annual ‘Record Store Day’ is taking place on the 22nd April 2017, with... read more →

Get your Spring Bonnet on!

Get crafty with the kids this spring with our take on a May-Day bonnet. When it comes to decorating, more really is more as flowers jostle for space next to glittery eggs and beads. Wear with pride to celebrate Spring! You will need: Bonnet Style Hats (we got ours online)... read more →

HMS Victory Navy Strength Gin wins international award

HMS Victory Navy Strength Gin, produced by the Isle of Wight Distillery, has been awarded a prestigious Best in Category accolade at this year’s American Distilling Institute (ADI) Spirit Competition. Known as the ‘Voice of Craft Distilling’ the ADI presented these internationally recognised awards at its Annual Conference in Baltimore,... read more →

Sweet Tooth

With programmes such as The Great British Bake-off and Cake Boss topping the ratings, Britain’s love of cake and sweet treats is going strong, just take a glance at the home baking aisle in your supermarket for proof, it’s probably much bigger than you think. Far from a pastime for... read more →

Chick, chick, chick, chick, chicken!

The appetite for the “Good Life” shows no sign of waning with many of us tending to our own vegetable patches  with the trend spreading to keeping chickens in our gardens. But where to start? Many of us have rose-tinted memories of grandparents keeping chickens and up until the 1950s... read more →

Taste of the Wight present their Spring artist – Mooksgoo

Taste of the Wight have always been a fan of local food (naturally) but we are also big champions of local art, especially when it has a foodie theme! The Isle of Wight has a buzzing art scene with a ton of talented people for us to work with. Over... read more →

What to Grow now with Matt Noyce, Head Gardener at Quarr Abbey

Spring is the time when many of us are looking to sort out our gardens and get them ready for the warmer months ahead. The amount of people who grow their own fruit and veg within their gardens or allotments is increasing year on year. If you are thinking about... read more →

Taste Spring 2017 has sprung!

We are super excited to showcase our brand new edition of Taste of the Wight. Our first edition for 2017 is out now and covers Spring - with the clocks going forward and the lovely sunshine we have been enjoying lately, it feels that spring is well and truly here! As... read more →

Where to take Mum this Mothering Sunday?

Mother's Day is nearly upon us but if you have not quite decided where to take Mum to celebrate then have a look at our round-up guide here (but be sure to book up fast, you don't want to disappoint Mum now do you...!) Morgans in Shanklin are offering a... read more →

Fun, food and frolics at Minnie’s Roadhouse

Taste of the Wight were invited along to a brand new venture on the Isle of Wight last weekend. The first in a series of immersive events on the Island curated by the Moonshine Collective, an Isle of Wight based group of artists, musicians, foodies, and professional party people, dedicated to creating unforgettable... read more →

“Its my shout” Goddards launch Starboard! for 2017

Goddards Brewery have launched Starboard!, an easy drinking 4% golden session ale . It’s a brand new recipe combining English hops with pale ale and cara malt, to deliver a distinctive orangey flavour with a citrus taste, with a wonderful hoppy aroma and finish. Xavier Baker managing director of Goddards commented,... read more →

Flat as a pancake

It is the one day of the year where it is more than ok to throw food around the kitchen, Pancake Day will be celebrated on the 28th February. Whether you go savoury or sweet, here is our guide to the perfect pancake. Reaching back as far as 1439, Pancake... read more →

Local produce hits the high seas with Wightlink

Wightlink as a keen supporter of local produce, have teamed up with a number of Isle of Wight producers and artisan foodies to showcase some of the very best in local fare on board their flagship ferry, the St Clare, in order to celebrate the opening of its new shop.... read more →

Love Island this February

Love is in the air with Valentine's Day fast approaching. There are plenty of ways to treat your loved one but we agree with the age old adage that the way to your man's (or woman’s for that matter) heart is through their stomach. It seems that most of the... read more →

A new dining experience hits the Island

The Moonshine Collective, a group of local artists, musician, foodies and general party people, are hosting the first in a series of immersive dining events on the Isle of Wight, the first being called Minnie’s Roadhouse.  Feel like a player in this time travelling experience to Minnie’s Roadhouse hosted by The... read more →

And the winners are….

The My Isle of Wight awards took place on Wednesday this week and mark the best that the Island has to offer, as voted for by you - the public. My Isle of Wight aims to bring local knowledge to the forefront and the awards celebrate everything that is amazing about the... read more →

Best breakfast at Cantina

Cantina in Ventnor has been recognised in The Guardian's 50 best places in the UK for breakfast. Published on Saturday, breakfast in Britain is a big deal with many a b&b booked on it's breakfast merit alone. Setting you up for the day it is often revered as the most... read more →

Get set for Burns Night

We might not be that close to Scotland but that doesn't stop us getting in the spirit of celebrating Burns Night. The annual celebration is a tribute to life and works of Robert Burns, Scottish poet 1759-1796 and is marked on or around his birthday of the 25th January. Celebrations... read more →

Stick to the seasons

January is the the time when most of us are feeling bloated and sluggish from the recent festivities, when the gym is suddenly busier and the pubs quieter as we all try hard to keep to 'dry-anuary'. It is therefore the perfect time to look at how and what we... read more →

Eat lucky this New Years Eve

Even the most cynical can feel superstitious at the start of a New Year, heralding a new beginning and all the promise of a fresh start. Around the world there are many superstitions as the clock chimes midnight, most of them featuring food in some shape or form. In Spain... read more →

A Wight Christmas in Coburg

The city of Coburg is located on the ltz river in Bavaria Germany and is one of the capital's of the duchy of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha. Twinned with the Isle of Wight, the connection goes back to Prince Albert who was the Prince of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha only leaving to... read more →

Christmas around the world

If you are tired of turkey, why not try something a bit different this year and go for festive food from another country. Here are our picks of some of the more unusual treats to try this year: Possibly the most unusual choice is in Japan. Here, the holidays are... read more →

Beer for Christmas? Why not!

Tis the season to be jolly, merry and all those other happy adjectives - so we challenged the Isle of Wight’s oldest brewery, Goddards to help us get into the festive spirit with a different type of tipple to the traditional this year. Beer plays a rather important role in... read more →

All I want for Christmas

Christmas day might be to most, all about the roast dinner with all the trimmings- but also high on many lists (and definitely ours) are the sweet treats that fill the house during the festive season. Christmas confectionery comes in many guises, whether it's a small sack of gold coins... read more →

Dairy delights at Briddlesford

Briddlesford Lodge Farm launched their new range of dairy products last night (30th November) with nibbles at their Bluebells Cafe. The new range includes double cream, clotted cream (we can vouch for the fact that it does wonders to a scone) and halloumi cheese. The new range of milk features... read more →

Get your Isle of Wight recipe book here and now!

Our Isle of Wight Recipe Book is now available to purchase on our online shop! We are super pleased that after talking about it for so long, you can now buy it. Launched only this morning at the Quay Arts Centre, we welcomed those who had contributed recipes, including Mark... read more →

Taste of the Wight in Westminster

Taste of the Wight were pleased to hear that we got a mention in Westminster of all places this week! Thanks to the Isle of Wight's MP, Andrew Turner, local Island food was on the agenda inn parliament last week. George Eustice, Minister of State for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food... read more →

The Taste of the Wight Recipe Book is nearly here!

You might remember some time back that we were calling for your recipes for our very own Taste of the Wight recipe book? Well the day has finally come when we are ready to show it off to the world with our launch on Monday 28th November, just in time... read more →

Wassailing this week?

Wassailing is the ancient custom of visiting orchards in cider-producing regions across England, traditionally on the Twelfth Night, and reciting incantations or singing songs to the trees in order to promote a good healthy harvest for the coming year. It might sound a bit odd today, but would you want... read more →

Festive flavours a plenty from Minghella

Ice cream is not just for summer, especially once you have seen the flavours on offer from Minghella's festive range this Christmas. Made with milk from Briddlesford Lodge's herd of award-winning Guernsey cows, ice cream can make the perfect accompaniment to your seasonal treats and with 230 flavours in ,... read more →

Lizzie’s Way Christmas Craft

Berry Christmas Santa Strawberry Santa Ingredients... read more →

Making spirits bright

The gift of alcohol at Christmas is often a last minute hoorah for relatives who you know love their single malt scotch and are usually purchased along with a pint of milk and some bread. But we’re here this year to help you put a bit of effort into your... read more →

Local fish & chips recognised with a national quality award

On the Isle of Wight, Stotesbury's Fish & Chips are right up there with being some of the best on the Island, ask anyone where they recommend and you can bet their name crops up more than once. Now it seems that as well as local accolades, the National Federation... read more →

Talking Turkey

Talking Turkey - our guide to taking the stress out of Christmas dinner Christmas Dinner is perhaps the most famous of all meals and the most hotly anticipated spread of the year. So the pressure is on for those in the hot-seat this year. We have spoken to Callum Murray,... read more →

Remember remember the 5th of November

An event is a great excuse for different food and Bonfire Night is no exception. Think comfort food, food you can eat outside whilst watching the firework display and snacks that will warm you up after a chilly evening spent outside. Apples feature prominently at this time of year. For Bonfire Night,... read more →

Bang – it’s British Sausage Week

British Sausage Week starts today (31st October) and runs until 6th November 2016. Now in it's 19th year, this week long celebration honours the humble banger in all its glory. The celebrity 'face' of 2016 is Jonathan Benjamin (JB) Gill of former pop group JLS who quit the music industry... read more →

Le Beaujolais Nouveau est arrivé!

Beaujolais Nouveau is celebrated in France on the third Thursday of November with street parties, fireworks and festivals. Under French law, the wine is released at 12.01am just a few weeks after the grapes have been harvested making it one of the youngest wines available. The country then celebrates the... read more →

HMS Victory first release

The Isle of Wight Distillery will be launching the first of four batches of its Limited Edition Oak Aged HMS Victory Navy Strength Gin at a special event held on board the HMS Victory in Portsmouth Historic Dockyard this Tuesday 18th October 2016. The Distillery, in partnership with The National Museum... read more →

Food meets art with The Wight Pencil

Our new Taste of the Wight is out now celebrating autumnal, winter and festive produce. We are excited to have been working with another local artist as part of our food meets art series. This edition you can see the work of Nicky Baker, aka The Wight Pencil on pages... read more →

Taste of the Wight Christmas edition has landed

As you enjoy your weekend full of walks and roast dinners, you might come across our brand new Taste of the Wight Christmas edition. We are really excited as this our first edition that covers the festive period, from October through to January, it has everything you need to enjoy a... read more →

Vegetables for Tea and Milk for Me!

Local farmer Caroline Knox is well known for her work within the local farming and produce industry, but perhaps her lesser known talent is that of writing and illustrating her own children's books. Vegetables for Tea and Milk for me originally came about in 2003 when Caroline had just had... read more →

Wight Mermaids is first delivery for Juniper Club members

The Juniper Club is a gin based subscription service for members to receive a bottle of craft gin regularly, the members choose whether they want deliveries every month, every other month or every three months. The Isle of Wight Distillery partnered with the Juniper Club and this month Wight Mermaids... read more →

National Seafood (and eat it) Week

It is currently National Seafood Week running from the 7th to the 14th October. Seafish, who are widely considered the authority on seafood, started the event back in 2007 as a reason to shout about the UK seafood industry and encourage more of us to eat fish, highlighting the quality... read more →

Best of England on the Island

Best of England is a printed guide and website that recommends some of the best places to visit in England from cafes, restaurants, gardens, vineyards, castles and shops. Each one is researched, visited and photographed by a member of the Best of England team before being added to the website. The perfect companion for... read more →

Sunday Best

Sunday’s are made for walking and if that means to or from a pub, well then, that’s our kind of walk! Here are a selection of walks that we have enjoyed and hope you will too (if you have any suggestions, please get in touch, we would love to hear... read more →

Isle of Wight Mermaids Sloe Gin

Okay so who's managed to make their sloe gin yet? There is still a few sloes on the bushes and at this time of the year (early October) they are ripe so you will probably get a rich flavour and may not need to use quite so much sugar as... read more →

Get set for Beer & Buses!

Beer and Buses is back for its third year on the weekend of the 15th & 16th October. A collaboration between the IW Bus Museum and CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale) back in 2014 to celebrate Autumn Running Day, it is a simple idea that has really taken off in... read more →

Twice as nice for the Seaview Hotel

It was great news for the Isle of Wight's food scene with no less than nine eateries being featured in the 2017 Michelin Guide. The Seaview Hotel learnt that they would be retaining their Michelin Bib Gourmand award for the second year. The latest edition of the Michelin Guide was unveiled at... read more →

The Sportsmans Rest set to reopen early November

Pub fans will rejoice in the news that The Sportsmans Rest in Porchfield is set to reopen in November. The pub closed back in January 2015 much to the dismay of locals but news that it is to reopen has been met with real enthusiasm. New landlords David and Deborah Chillingworth have a... read more →

Bite the Wight

On Thursday 20, October, the Isle of Wight Youth Trust will be hosting a Bite the Wight Dinner at Ryde School with a special guest appearance by Ryde school alumnus and renowned writer Philip Norman. Philip Norman, who was born in London but, grew up on the Isle of Wight,... read more →

Taste of the Wight’s Worlds Biggest Coffee Morning

Today (30th September) Taste of the Wight have opened our doors to all for yummy cake and delicious coffee all in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support. The Worlds Biggest Coffee Morning takes place each September raising money to help support those living with cancer, whether it is paying for a... read more →

The Tomato Stall are named Local Supplier of the Year

Isle of Wight food producers The Tomato Stall have been named Local Supplier of the Year by The Southern Co-operative at their annual awards, The Scoops. Stores were asked to nominate suppliers to their Local Flavours range who they felt had exceeded expectations and gone above and beyond on a... read more →

The Real Bread Campaign

The Real Bread Campaign have released their first ever recipe book. Slow Dough: Real Bread features around 90 recipes from bread experts for genuine sourdough and other long ferment real breads, ranging from a basic white loaf, to Laotian kalpao and Friesian fryske sûkerbôle. The book includes a recipe from Michael Fahy, of well-known... read more →

Pumpkin patch

The rows of bright orange pumpkins that have gleamed in Arreton for the past few weeks have finally been harvested. Around 17,000 pumpkins were picked last week and are on their way to a farm shop near you. Farmer Ben Brown, from Farmer Jacks, and his team have grown the pumpkins... read more →

Around the Island with the Ingreedies

Calling all young cooks! The Ingreedies are coming to the Quay Arts on Saturday 22nd October and want all kids who love food to come along and get involved. Ingreedies is the brainchild of husband and wife Joe Sharpe (Island born and breed) and Zoe Bather. It helps that they are... read more →

Macmillan Worlds Largest Coffee Morning

The very first Macmillan Coffee Morning started way back in 1990 as a relatively small affair which has grown considerably, raising £138 million for cancer research over the last 26 years. This year, Taste of the Wight are hosting our own Macmillan Coffee Morning on Friday 30th September between 10am-2pm.... read more →

IW Distillery at Jamie Oliver’s Fifteen

Jamie Oliver has been running his Fifteen Apprenticeship Programme and over the years, the apprentices have been visiting the Isle of Wight each year, working alongside some of our most respected local producers including The Isle of Wight Distillery, Goddards Brewery, The Tomato Stall, Farmer Jacks and Greefs Biltong.  Set... read more →

Feed Your Growth – the South East’s biggest and best food & drink industry event

This is one for the Island's food and drink trade. The Isle of Wight’s most innovative and ambitious catering businesses are being offered complimentary tickets to Feed Your Growth. The biggest and best food & drink industry event of the South East launches on 30th September. Hosted by Hampshire Chambers... read more →

The Bee’s Knees – Isle of Wight Beekeeping

Bees have never had more media coverage than in recent times, with high profile campaigns to stop the use of controversial pesticides and the worrying decline in bee numbers regularly appearing across social media channels and national news. Bees play a vital role in our ecosystem – pollinating our fruit... read more →

Afternoon Tea week is here – if you need an excuse!

The week of 8th-14th August is known in the UK as National Afternoon Tea week as people throughout the UK celebrate one of the nations most popular culinary pastimes. Whether enjoyed in a AA rosette establishment, a cafe by the coast or even baked at home, we British love the combination... read more →

Garlic galore

It's nearly time for the most pungent festival - and one of the most loved, as The Garlic Festival takes over Fighting Cocks Cross on the weekend of the 20th & 21st August. The Isle of Wight Garlic Festival is the Island’s biggest summer show. Huge cookery marquees, arts and... read more →

Taste of the Wight hits the road!

Taste of the Wight are going on tour! This summer, you will find us at many events across the Isle of Wight. We will be working in partnership with the Isle of Wight Distillery to bring you 'taste tipples', from Wight Mermaids Gin & Tonic; Rock Sea Vodka & Tonic;... read more →

Wanderlust for Wight

Have you heard of Wanderlust Chloe? Chances are if you enjoy reading foodie and travel blogs she will be well on your radar. Recently named a Top Uk Travel Blogger, Chloe has a pretty enviable life touring the world whilst munching tasty food as she goes! Chloe recently paid a trip... read more →

Is it Gin’o’clock?

You have probably heard about the Gin Festival taking place on Sunday 18th September at The King Lud in Ryde, we thought it would be nice to know a bit more about it and why it's happening - we for one, can't wait! Two lovely ladies, Suzy and Helen, who... read more →

The Tea House has opened its doors in Ventnor

A new addition to Ventnor's foodie scene has opened it's doors this week. The Tea House sits at number 40 High Street and is home to all things tea and vintage. Expect locally sourced products, retro styling and a large slice of homemade cake! Khia Janzen from The Tea House... read more →

A Taste of the Wight Picnic

No summer is complete without setting out a blanket, laying out food and drink and enjoying a leisurely picnic in a pretty spot. Not even the Great British summer weather (read rain...) can dampen our spirits. Try a true taste of local for your picnic this year. Staples such as... read more →

Local Product Focus

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What’s cooler than being cool?

Being surrounded by sea, the Isle of Wight certainly has the 'Lyons' share when it comes to ice cream pit stops. Whether it’s a 99 cone on the beachfront in Ventnor, a scoop atop of the Brading Downs or watching the world go by in an ice cream parlour in... read more →

The Tomato Stall crowned Food Hero

Isle of Wight food producers The Tomato Stall have been named Good Housekeeping’s 2016 Food Hero at an awards ceremony in London.  Managing Director Paul Thomas welcomed the recognition for his team. “This is the perfect way to say thank you and well done to everyone in the business for... read more →

New Red Jet 6 named with local fizz

The new Red Jet 6 is officially being named today (4th July) and it will be it will be a bottle of Isle of Wight sparkling wine from Rosemary Vineyard that’s used to the christen the vessel. It’s a longstanding tradition to use champagne to wish a new ship good luck on its future voyages.... read more →

Food and art combine with Zoe Sadler

Our summer edition of Taste of the Wight is now out and about and we are super excited to announce our partnership with local artist Zoe Sadler. This edition features an exclusive piece of artwork from Zoe on pages 60-61. Zoe's love of reading fairytales and her penchant for an old-fashioned... read more →

The Best(ival) of Taste of the Wight

Taste of the Wight are excited to announce that we will be having a stand in the Feast Collective at Bestival 2016. We will be working with some of our excellent local producers to create a super tasty food offering. This is the first time that there has been a... read more →

Freddie Flintoff fries again – on the Island

Freddie Flintoff, former England cricket star all-rounder, has been serving up fish & chips from his fry-mobile, as part of the Sky 1 series, Freddy Fries Again. Joined by his friend and extreme cyclist Rob Penn, they tour the UK in their very own, eco-friendly, cooking-fat-fuelled mobile fish and chip... read more →

Garden Isle

A kitchen garden hits the sweet spot between being functional as well as aesthetically pleasing to the eye. This is a ‘plot-to-plate scenario’. Food miles? We’re talking mere metres, and you can’t source more locally than that. There’s kitchen gardens, and then there’s... read more →

Blue is the colour for Isle of Wight Cheese Company

The Isle of Wight Cheese Company have many a reason to smile this week and rather fittingly, it's British Cheese Week! Firstly, Isle of Wight Blue, produced by the Isle of Wight Cheese Company is to feature in a seven tiered 'cheese-cake' to be served as part of HM The... read more →

Super scapes at The Garlic Farm

The appearance of scapes is a great occasion for The Garlic Farm in the garlic calendar. Not only does this indicate that the Elephant Garlic harvest is very close but they also have the first edible crop to harvest from the field. Wondering what we're on about? Elephant Garlic, like all hardneck garlic... read more →

Taste of the Wight’s Kitchen Experience at The Royal Hotel

Taste of the Wight were lucky enough to be invited to attend one of The Royal Hotel's Kitchen Experiences last night, a behind the scenes peek at just what goes into creating the gourmet fare, from pan to plate. Slightly nervous that we would be asked to gown up and... read more →

Celebrate British Tomato Week!

British Tomato Week runs from 16th - 22nd May 2016 is an annual celebration of the season when British-grown tomatoes are now bursting onto our shelves. British grown means fewer food miles, and tastier toms having not travelled refrigerated means you get that real homegrown taste. Here on the Isle of... read more →

Isle of Wight Distillery launches ‘HMS Victory’ Navy Strength Gin 

The Isle of Wight Distillery is proud to announce a partnership with The National Museum of the Royal Navy to produce, under license, a unique Navy Strength Gin. The Island­-based distillery, that currently produces hand­crafted Wight Mermaids Gin, has partnered with the museum to launch a new Navy Strength Gin... read more →

Steam and Beer Festival at Havenstreet

One of the Island’s home grown success stories is our local breweries: Goddards, Yates and Island Ales. Sometimes it’s great to combine the best of these Isle of Wight brewers with some excellent guest beers. The 11th... read more →

Enjoy the asparagus season

Asparagus season seems to get earlier every year and with Spring well and truly here and Summer promising to be on its way, there has never been a better time to make the most of our locally grown Isle of Wight Asparagus. Cultivated by the Romans and once regarded as... read more →

Seasonal Spotlight on….Ben Brown, of Isle of Wight asparagus growers’

As we bid a welcome farewell to Winter, and the limited fresh produce that it offers, one of the first - and finest - treats that Spring brings us are the vivid green spears of asparagus. Ben Brown, of A.E. Brown Farms in Arreton, describes the ripening of this gourmet... read more →

#BagsofHelp for Ventnor Botanic Garden

Ventnor Botanic Garden Friends Society (VBGFS) are thrilled to have been awarded £10,000 funding through the recent Tesco Bags of Help scheme #BagsofHelp. Customers at Tesco stores across the Island voted for their favourite project and boosted the guaranteed sum by an extra £2000!    Plans are now under way to... read more →

First Gastronomic Weekend a success

On the Island’s south-eastern shores, Ventnor has been home to the historic Royal Hotel since 1832. Once frequented by Queen Victoria, the hotel’s restaurant has featured in the Michelin dining guide ever since its inception, and has held two rosettes from the Automobile Association for over eighteen consecutive years.  To... read more →

Win Taste goodies with our monthly competitions

We have teamed up with local producers, eateries and basically anything food related, to bring you a selection of goodies to win each month. This month we met with Fiona from Pink's and have a selection of her totally yummy, vegetarian friendly, super easy to use pesto's to give away here.... read more →

Pink’s pesto courgetti with chicken

Try this simple yet delicious dish, great as a easy mid-week meal for 2, with a local twist: You will need- 2 thinly sliced cooked chicken breasts (why not try Island Foods for local meats) 2 little courgettes (Living Larder grows & stocks most of the farm shops, Briddlesford Lodge is... read more →

Pink’s Isle of Wight

Out of a relatively small but perfectly formed kitchen in Merstone, come some of the most wonderful jars of chutney's, chilli jellies, pestos and now peanut butters.  Pink's is a small operation with Fiona Pink at the helm. The name Pink's has some heritage that is hard to beat. Fiona's great... read more →

IW Milk still star of the show for IW Ice Cream

After the sad news that Three Gates Farm will cease production of milk from their Pedigree Wheatenbread dairy herd, the Isle of Wight Ice Cream Company have assured that their ice cream will not be affected, stating "we always have and will continue to be using Isle of Wight milk (from a... read more →

National Garlic Day 2016

April 19th is National Garlic Day and with garlic being one of the Island's most famous products, you can celebrate and eat local at the same time! The Garlic Farm is tucked down in the valley of Newchurch and is the largest selling garlic producer in the country. Colin Boswell... read more →

Four in a bed on the Isle of Wight

The popular channel 4 programme 'Four in a Bed' will feature Keats Cottage in Shanklin from 5pm tonight. The show sees guest house owners pitted against each other, competing for the coveted Best B&B title.   Steeped in history and with parts of the building over 400 years old, Keats... read more →

A more bizarre beverage…

As an alternative to coffee during this weeks National Coffee week, we have rounded up some of the Island's more 'unique' drinks and given you the low down, just go out and try them for yourself!  Tipsy Wight Vodka Although you might think you’re tipsy just from looking at a... read more →

Local art with a foodie twist

Taste of the Wight are excited to announce a team up with local artists to produce some fabulous pieces of artwork, all with a local foodie theme. First up is Katy Rose Design, currently on pages 52 & 53 in the printed guide.  Katy's design for Taste of the Wight has mainly... read more →

Great British Bake off winner Nadiya annouced for The Garlic Festival

  From the Bake Off tent to the Food Theatre marquee - the Isle of Wight Garlic Festival welcomes the winner and current titleholder of the Great British Bake Off! Nadiya Hussain won the most recent series of Bake Off, seen by 15 million people on TV's most watched show.... read more →

Trump set to purchase Goddards Brewery

The controversial presidential hopeful, Donald Trump, has been spotted taking a break from the campaign trail in the US to visit the Isle of Wight on a fact-finding mission that could see him snap up Goddards Brewery. Well-known for his love of craft beer, the billionaire businessman, who is fighting... read more →

Olive magazine reveals their top places to eat & drink on the Island

Olive magazine adorns many a shelf in kitchens across the country and has a mix of imaginative but achievable recipes, restaurant reviews and food-focussed travel. Their top suggestions for food and drink on the Isle of Wight includes The Royal in Ventnor. Here they suggest treating yourself to an afternoon tea served... read more →

Taste of the Wight Spring 2016 has landed

Hitting hotels, retail units and food & drink establishments across the Island, Taste of the Wight Spring 2016 is our 5th edition. This year sees some exciting changes, most notable being our new A5 format and 2016 having three issues to cover Spring, Summer and Christmas! Not only will you find all... read more →

Eggs for Easter

Easter eggs are traditionally given to mark Easter or springtime. Originally painted or decorated chicken's eggs, today's recipients are far more likely to expect to find chocolate underneath the shiny foil than a hard shell! You can 'go local' with your... read more →

New for spring from Tipsy Wight

Spring is an exciting time for Tipsy Wight as it's the time of year when they begin to bottle their vodkas after they have been steeping in their barrels for the winter months. This year they are also adding three new flavours to their existing range which will be launched... read more →

CAMRA announce their Beer of the Year 2015 winners

CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale) have announced their 2015 winners and for the second year in a row, Island Brewery took the top spot with their Earl's RDA, as well as third with Wight Christmas and fourth with Yachtsman's Ale (with Goddards Fuggle-De-Dum taking second place). Earl's RDA is named... read more →

Search for the best cream tea

The staple food for anyone in the English countryside, the Isle of Wight included, the cream tea is a classic afternoon treat that will never go out of style. Warm home-baked scones, plenty of clotted cream, generous dollops of strawberry jam, the much-needed pot of English tea and fresh milk... read more →

Fancy owning your own brewery…Goddards is for sale!

Goddards Brewery - “Isle of Wight Born and Brewed”, and one the country’s best established independent breweries - is for sale. It’s part of what the government last year described as the “UK’s brewing powerhouse” and a name that’s also synonymous with quality real ale. Having recently reached the majestic... read more →

Its an Easter extravaganza on the Island!

With Easter arriving early this year, here are our picks of whats going on and where you can get your chocolate fix! Arreton Barns will be hosting their annual Easter Egg Hunt. Collect three counters to get your chocolatey prize, plus get your face painted and meet up with the... read more →

A Taste of Poland on the Island

A boutique b&b, Keats Cottage in Shanklin sits at the top of the Old Village and is the perfect place to enjoy a dine and stay after a night on the town or an evening at the theatre...or even just because! Named Keats Cottage after the famous poet John Keats... read more →

Feel the love this Valentines Day

Its nearly time to celebrate the most romantic day of the year, and what better way than sharing a meal with a loved one, especially one you have not had to cook yourself! Nothing run of the mill amongst these pickings, sure to delight your chosen Valentine.... Off the beaten... read more →

Mary Berry has Garlic Galore

She just can't keep away that Mary Berry! Last week we saw her meet up with Ed Blake and catch fresh lobster and this week her Foolproof Cooking series (BBC2 tonight from 8.30pm) takes her to the Garlic Farm and the legendary King of Garlic, Colin Boswell. Here Mary learns about... read more →

Valentine’s Day inspiration

With Valentine's Day just a fortnight away, pubs, restaurants, cafes and hotels across the Isle of Wight are gearing up for an influx of loved-up couples on Sunday 14th February 2016. Although there are several differing views on the origin and history of Valentine's Day, food is an important aspect of... read more →

Wight Mermaids Gin sponsors Sail the Wight

2016 sees the 11th year of  Sail the Wight  race on July 16th , which started when two friends from East Cowes Sailing Club challenged each other to raise money for charity by racing around the Isle of Wight. Xavier Baker and Conrad Gauntlett from the Isle of Wight Distillery are... read more →

Mary Berry’s Foolproof Cooking on the Isle of Wight

The first in Mary Berry's new TV series "Mary Berry's Foolproof Cooking" aired last night on BBC 2. In it she shares some of her foolproof recipes and within this episode she joined Ed Blake of Ventnor Haven Fishery on his boat, catching lobster's. A first for the cookery star.... read more →

Grow your own

Whether you are sourcing fresh fruit and vegetables in the local farm shop, or venturing into growing produce in your own garden, it is useful to know what is in season at this time of year. The Island boasts a milder sub climate than mainland Britain, often described as Mediterranean,... read more →

Briddlesford cows do the Italian Job

The award winning herd of pedigree Guernsey cows are making their mark in Italy with nine cows, three in-calf heifers and eight yearling calves sold by Briddlesford to Lombardy farmer Simone Salvaderi. The cows from Briddlesford were chosen to produce a new organic milk for the Italian market. Paul Griffin of... read more →

Royal Kitchen gets an airing after 120 years

Celebrity chef James Martin featured Osborne House this week on his show "Home Comforts". The show featured food historian Dr Annie Gray cooking in the recently restored kitchen in the Swiss Cottage. Its thought that this was the first time the kitchen at Swiss Cottage has been used for cooking... read more →

Cheers! Isle of Wight gin and vodka

At last the Isle of Wight has its own distillery. Gin, vodka and Apple Pie Moonshine is now being produced on the Island by a new partnership called the Isle of Wight Distillery. It's based at Rosemary Vineyard, which is near Ryde, and involves Conrad Gauntlett and Xavier Baker. [caption... read more →

Call to “Back British Farming” from Island’s NFU

The Isle of Wight Chair of the NFU (National Farmers Union) Caroline Knox is calling on local government and the public to back local British farming during 2016. “Across all sectors, 2015 has been a tough year for farming and recovery may be some way off. But we have to focus... read more →

Insight into the Kitchen – Robert Thompson, the man behind the food

Great food and local produce go together like fish and chips, strawberries and cream, sausage and mash.. well, you get the idea. So its no surprise that one look at Robert Thompson's menu for Thompson's tells you all you need to know about the chef's commitment to local food. Thompson's opened... read more →

Fresh fish from the Isle of Wight

In the winter when the land is fallow, the seas around the Isle of Wight are abundant with delicious seafood. From October onwards is actually the best time to try Isle of Wight crab, when crabs from our waters are at their best. Speaking to Ed Blake of Ventnor Haven... read more →

Sandown Foodie cycle route

In the summer months, there’s no better way to explore the Island, and enjoy its twin attributes of beautiful scenery and award-winning food, than to get on your bike and follow one of its many cycling trails. This circular five mile cycle route starts in Sandown and takes you on... read more →

Scenic walk to a culinary gem

The Bonchurch Inn is one of the Island’s hidden culinary gems, run with passion and charm by the Besozzi family since 1984. Tucked away in a Dickensian courtyard off Bonchurch Shute, its authentic Italian menu is perhaps made even more mouth-watering by its sheer unexpectedness. Approaching the traditional stone public... read more →

Plenty of ViaMichelin recommendations for the Isle of Wight

A good amount of the Isle of Wight's eateries have been recommended online by ViaMichelin, an online travel planning service helping you to organise every aspect of your trip, including the best places to eat! The Isle of Wight is home to some wonderful restaurants and amongst those to be... read more →

Michelin award for The Seaview Hotel

The Seaview Hotel has been awarded a Michelin award based on the quality of its food and price.  The award is the Bib Gourmand standard which acknowledges "exceptional food and moderate prices". Less than 150 resturants were granted this award in the UK last year and the team at the... read more →

Island comes up trumps in The Good Food Guide 2016

The Good Food Guide is the UK's bestselling restaurant guide. Owned by Waitrose, the guide has been published since 1951 reviwing restaurants, pubs and cafes bringing together the best places to eat in the country. The 2016 guide which was published this week highlights some of the wonderful places to... read more →

Vegetable Roadkill

Here is a guest post from one of our contributor's, Charlie Doorbar who is still at school, yet his love of local food and drink is evident! In this post he explores the food available on the roadsides around the Island... "I have always been curious about the produce available... read more →

A first for Gin & Tonic

The first and only distilling license has been granted to the Isle of Wight Distillery, based at Rosemary Vineyard. There are no known records or history of distilling on the Island. The new venture sees a partnership between two of the Island's well known alcohol producers, Conrad Gauntlet with thirty... read more →

Ventnor Food Trail

The coastline along the south of the Island is breathtakingly lovely, with its unbroken views of the English Channel, and the area’s mild microclimate making seaside walks a particular delight. The half mile stretch that takes you along the coastal path from Ventnor is especially pleasing, ending as it does... read more →

Robert Thompson; the man behind the kitchen

Most of the time Robert Thompson's food does the talking for him. With the opening of Thompson's earlier this month Taste of the Wight wanted to find out more about the man behind the food.. We've heard that your love of cooking started at the young age of 10, how... read more →

Island Companies score a hat-trick in the 2015 Great Taste Awards

Isle of Wight tomato specialists, The Tomato Stall, are delighted to have been awarded Guild of Fine Foods Great Taste 2015 Awards for three of their products: Pure Isle of Wight Tomato Juice; Oak Roasted Isle of Wight Tomatoes; and their brand new Virgin Mary spiced tomato juice. The awards received... read more →

Book your table as Thompson’s opens tomorrow

I was lucky enough to grab an hour with Robert Thompson in between him sanding the floors and building the new bar out of railway sleepers, soon to be pride of place in Thompson's when it opens tomorrow. Its fair to say that this feels like a real labour of... read more →

Woodfired while you wait

Whilst you are out and about making the most of the warm weather and the long evenings you might be lucky enough to stumble upon Wightwood Pizza and their travelling pizza van. Cooked to perfection in their woodfired clay oven, these are supremely tasty and use local produce wherever possible.... read more →

Island Ale for Sail

Head into Cowes for the Aberdeen Asset Management Cowes Week from the 8th to 15th August, where you will find ale for sale at the Island Real Ale Festival; as six Island beer's, including one specially brewed for the occasion, will be available from the lower marquee at the Island... read more →

Life Changing Lasagna

The Bonchurch Inn is home to the legendary "life changing lasagne" so popular, that it is now available each Friday at the Newport Farmer's Market. Made with Island reared beef, the recipe hails from Nino Bezzozi, and has been a firm favourite on the specials board for over three decades.... read more →

A Taste of V-Dub Island

V-dub Island is back for 2015 with its new location at South Fairlee Farm in Newport from the 23rd to 27th July. This year Taste of the Wight, the local guide to food and drink of the Isle of Wight, will be joining in with all the fun by sponsoring... read more →

We Scream for Ice Cream!

Boasting some of the UK’s most beautiful beaches, a mild climate, and more sunshine than anywhere else on the South Coast, it’s not surprising that ice cream is in hot demand on the Isle of Wight, and home to some award-winning, local ice cream companies. Between them, Minghella and The... read more →

We all scream for ice cream

Boasting some of the UK’s most beautiful beaches, a mild climate, and more sunshine than anywhere else on the South Coast, it’s not surprising that ice cream is in hot demand on the Isle of Wight, and home to some award-winning, local ice cream companies. Between them, Minghella and The... read more →

Briddlesford win Best in Breed

Briddlesford Lodge Farm and the Griffin family who farm here have reason to celebrate this week as their Guernsey cow was crowned "Best in Breed" at Livestock Event this week at the NEC in Birmingham, the leading event for the UK's livestock industry. The award is much respected and coveted... read more →

Time for tennis

It just wouldn’t be a British summer without Wimbledon and of course, the strawberries and cream that is synonymous with the great sporting event. Each year at Wimbledon around 142,000 portions of strawberries and cream are enjoyed with 28,000kg of strawberries, topped with 7000l of fresh cream. Strawberries have been... read more →

Life changing lasagne anyone…

The Bonchurch Inn is home to the legendary "life changing lasagne" so popular, that it is now available each Friday at the Newport Farmer's Market. Made with Island reared beef, the recipe hails from Nino Bezzozi, and has been a firm favourite on the specials board for over three decades.... read more →

Eat local at your Summer BBQ

Summer food to most people means grilling fresh meats and fish on the BBQ's served up with a summer salad, moving on to wonderfully tasty fruit and indulging in gourmet ice cream, all washed down with a nice cool pint or a glass of crisp fresh wine! For a truly... read more →

A taste of…Yarmouth

Foodies are spoilt for choice in the Island’s west coast town of Yarmouth. Bijou as it is beautiful, there’s nevertheless a cafe, pub or restaurant to appeal to every diner - from a waterside cream tea, or traditional fish and chips, to DIY surf ’n' turf or blow-the-budget fine dining.... read more →

TOTW Island produce showcase in Newport Guildhall

Taste of the Wight was very pleased to be asked by Visit Isle of Wight to create an Island food and drink display in the new Guildhall visitor information centre that opened in Newport today (24th June 2015). Not only does it provide an excellent showcase of local food and... read more →

Strawberry Fair this weekend

The annual Strawberry Fair at Chessell Pottery Barns is taking place this weekend, Saturday 27th & Sunday 28th June 2015. To celebrate all that's great about the British strawberry, there will be freshly made strawberry cream teas, cakes and tarts, as well as strawberry hulling you can roll up your... read more →

Wight Trash Pale Ale lands

What happens when you put together Goddards - a traditional Isle of Wight brewery, with John Cattle - a skateboarding genius? Wight Trash Pale Ale is a 4.5% alc. vol. beer, available in bottles only. It’s a thirst quenching ale brewed using Isle of Wight barley to give a smooth... read more →

Rachel Khoo comes to the Garlic Festival

TV Chef and bestselling author Rachel Khoo, well known for Little Paris Kitchen and Rachel Khoo's Kitchen Notebook, will be the star attraction at this years Garlic Festival. Rachel will be cooking in the food theatre and signing books as part of Sunday's line up. This years expanded theatre kitchen... read more →

A Taste of…Sandown

Tucked into the sheltered south-east coast of the Isle of Wight, the seaside town of Sandown is well-named, benefitting as it does from a vast slick of golden sand, that stretches down from Yaverland to neighbouring Shanklin. Conveniently located along the length of the beach-side Esplanade is a plethora of... read more →

Quest to find the "Seaside Chef of the Year" is on!

Chefs from around the coast are being encouraged to enter a brand new open competition to find the "Seaside Chef of the Year". The award had been created by Aspect Bar and Bistro, in the Lancashire seaside resort of Morecambe in a bid to changes peoples perceptions of British seaside... read more →

Isle of Arts pop-in street food from Fogg’s

Whether you’re a true ‘foodie’ or simply just looking for something delicious to eat, High Street favourite Fogg’s of Ventnor will be offering visitors to the Isle of Arts festival something special with their innovative ‘World Street Food Pop-In’ using Chef Mark’s creative skills with fresh, local Isle of Wight... read more →

Get a sneak peek with Open Farm Sunday

The Tomato Stall will be taking part in the nationwide scheme "Open Farm Sunday" on June 7th 2015. Visitors will be able to tour the glasshouses sampling the crop and tasting the artisan products. Visitors will also have the opportunity to watch cookery demonstrations using the farms tomatoes, herbs and... read more →

Island stars in foodie mag Olive

Olive magazine graces many a foodie's kitchen, and this month, out on sale from Friday 24th April, dedicates a feature to the Isle of Wight's foodie scene, suggesting that it is "as ripe as the fruit & veg that grow here". Featuring some of the Island's best loved eateries such... read more →

Isle of Wight Tomatoes, not just any tomatoes, but Marks & Spencer tomatoes

The Tomato Stall have been selected by Marks & Spencer as one of only a handful of UK producers to feature in their range of branded artisan food and drink. The range consists of only 22 products by 20 different producers and will showcase the very best of British, encouraging... read more →

Robert Thompson opens his own restaurant in the Island’s capital town

Michelin starred chef Robert Thompson has now revealed his plans after his recent departure from The George. Foodies will be pleased to hear that he will remain on the Island and will be opening his own restaurant in Newport. Robert has always been a champion for local Isle of Wight... read more →

Join us for a ‘Taste of the Wight"

As part of the hugely popular Isle of Wight Walking Festival, join Taste of the Wight on a tour to delight your tastebuds. Starting and finishing at The Pointer Inn in Newchurch, you will take in some of the Island's well known foodie locations including The Garlic Farm and The... read more →

Find Sweet Memories at Arreton Barns

As Easter approaches, our thoughts naturally turn to sweet treats, with chocolate eggs of all shapes and sizes crowding the shelves, and every conceivable Spring symbol cast in chocolate. But if you fancy something a little bit different this Easter, be inspired by the edible treasures at Sweet Memories in... read more →

New spring menu announced onboard Red Funnel Ferries

The new spring menu onboard the East Cowes to Southampton route of the Red Funnel ferry, focuses heavily on local Island produce with dishes such as ratatouille tart topped with Isle of Wight soft cheese. Red Funnel are taking major steps to source 60% of their produce locally, with the... read more →

Bembridge Causeway foodie walk

This East Wight walk is best enjoyed at low tide - although there is an inland route through Priory Woods*, if you misjudge the tide times. Along the way, you’ll enjoy far-reaching views across the Solent, explore an unspoilt coastline, and wind up at the perfect seaside eatery: a floating... read more →

Do you know the mushroom man…?

When Paul Metcalf saw how popular exotic mushrooms were throughout France, Italy, Poland and Japan, he couldn’t understand why the UK didn’t offer more gourmet varieties. So he decided to remedy the situation himself, by setting up Natural Wight Mushrooms in Godshill, and becoming the Island’s very own ‘Mushroom Farmer’.... read more →

Focus on…Ryde Food Shops

On the eastern flank of the Island, a stone’s skim across the Solent from Portsmouth, the seaside town of Ryde is the most densely populated area on the Isle of Wight. Its residents are well served by some excellent independent shops, which not only benefit the community, ensuring shoppers can... read more →

Bembridge Harbour Food Festival

Come along to feast on all that is local from our land and sea.

The Sweetcorn Fayre

Sweetcorn produce, eating competitions, family fun and entertainment with live cookery on site. Real Ale Festival and celebrating everything that is sweetcorn arretonbarns.co.uk

Hops Festival at Ventnor Botanic Garden

Join us to celebrate another successful hop harvest. Locally brewed real ales and beers, live music and family friendly hop themed entertainment. botanic.co.uk

Songs of the Sea & Shanty Festival, at The Spyglass Inn

Celebration of traditional maritime and folk music, with plenty of seafood! thespyglass.com

Wolverton Manor Garden Fair

Set in the beautiful gardens of Wolverton Manor, near Shorwell, featuring over 120 Island and mainland exhibitors. gardenfair.org.uk

The Garlic Festival

Everything garlic! Entertainment for all; music, displays and plenty of food! Tickets £9.50 adults, £5 children (under 5's free) garlic-festival.co.uk

Ventnor Fringe Festival

A unique celebration of the arts. ventnorexchange.co.uk

The Chale Show

Award winning show with over 1000 exhibits and Farmers' Market. Tickets £8 adults, £6 concession. Children under 16 free, dogs on leads welcome. thechaleshow.co.uk

Wightlife- the food festival on the beach

Al fresco, BBQ and Mediterranean cuisine all celebrated on the Uk's holiday island. Outdoor eating and drinking at its best, using the best of the Isle of Wights local produce, combined with very special guests and live entertainment. Free entry wightlife.com

RIWAS County Show

The show where cattle, sheep and poultry come first. The main ring is the focus of the show and the action lasts all day. Tickets £8 adult, children under 16 free. riwas.org.uk

Chessell Pottery Strawberry Fair

Pottery painting demonstrations. Paint your own strawberry jam pot and sample the homemade strawberry treats on sale in the cafe. Free entry chessellpotterybarns.co.uk

Real Ale Festival

The 10th annual Real Ale Festival takes place from 2nd - 4th May 2015 featuring beers from across the Isle of Wight and UK. Relax in the ambience of Havenstreet Station with a pint of your favourite tipple as you watch the trains go by! Our 10th Isle of Wight... read more →

Phil Hopkins

As the executive chef of The Lugley's Group, Phil has the opportunity to create his own unique dishes and menus for his guests. Phil describes his cooking style as “Modern English” but equally loves to experiment. Having lived the majority of his life on the Island, his knowledge for the... read more →

Xavier Baker

Booze in the veins Xavier in his early teens helped his Father with some home brewing of Beer and Cider and there got a taste for booze! He went on to study Science at the IOW College before taking the role of trainee brewer at Ventnor Brewery at the age... read more →

Helen Broadhead

Situated on the cliff top at Shanklin, Helen's Bistro at The Bayhouse Hotel offers stunning views of the local bays & beaches. A popular choice for anything from an intimate dinner for two up to a large event or wedding the bistro offers a spacious panoramic view restaurant plus a... read more →

Markel Rodriguez

There are many reasons to open a restaurant, but for the team behind Amabi, it was a true love of Basque cuisine. Owners Markel and his partner Jenny are passionate about bringing local food lovers something unique. With their menu honed in on Basque Country cooking, one of the most... read more →

Dan Innis

Having originally trained with Raymond Blanc at Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons for 5 and ½ years, Head Chef Dan has recently returned to the UK after 4 years working with Sir Richard Branson at two of his exclusive resorts in Switzerland and Morocco. Dan has now joined The George proprietor,... read more →

Paul Thomas

Tomatoes have been grown in the rich and fertile Arreton Valley for over 30 years. The Island’s unique maritime climate and extra sunshine hours make it the perfect place to grow tomatoes. It’s hard to miss those gleaming glasshouses as you drive across Mersley Downs, home to the UK’s best... read more →

Natasha Edwards

Many physicists propose a theory that if you travel far enough, you end up back where you started. Whilst not all of Natasha’s adventures from her birthplace on the farm have been quite so quantum or cosmic, she has certainly spread her wings before returning to the Island. Growing up... read more →

Bruce Theobald

Chef Bruce - Bruce Theobald started working in kitchens at the tender age of 13 and during the last 22 years he has worked alongside side such culinary greats as Richard Corrigan, Philip Britten and most recently Billy Reid at Danesfield House. “My first real job was at the Grosvenor House... read more →

The Great British Bake Off star Mary Berry is coming to the Island this October

The IW Literary festival running from 15th - 18th October 2015 at Northwood House, have confirmed that Mary Berry will be joining their line-up. The television cook and most famous cake maker, will be appearing alongside Alan Titchmarsh, celebrity gardener and former Isle of Wight High Sheriff. Best dust off... read more →

Indulge in a foodie walk from Ryde to Seaview

If it is true, as A.C. Grayling wrote, that “the ingredient, that makes even the simplest fare taste like ambrosia, is hunger resulting from exercise”, then surely gastronomic satisfaction is guaranteed by a preprandial stroll to one’s dining destination? The Isle of Wight is blessed with many enjoyable such routes,... read more →

A taste of…..Ventnor

Ventnor has long been a magnet for gourmets seeking award-winning dining, with the likes of Cantina, Hillside Bistro, Tramezzini, The Boathouse (at Steephill Cove) and The Royal Hotel excelling in imaginative and well executed dishes, using the best of the Island’s home-grown produce. But the bohemian town, on the south... read more →

Official launch of Minghella at Briddlesford

Yesterday (25th February 2015) saw the official launch of Minghella at Briddlesford Lodge Farm. Invited guests including Lord Lieutenant Martin White, and industry, were treated to a fine meal of Briddlesford veal followed by Minghella's "single estate" vanilla ice cream made with 100% Briddlesford cream and milk. 2015 will see... read more →

A weekend of wine at The Royal Hotel

Join The Royal Hotel for a weekend of wine, with the Old World vs The New World debate. This events brings together The Royal's renowned flair with food with the expertise of the Island Wine Company. Friday 6th March offers a tasting menu matched with "new classics from the new... read more →

Valentines day on the Island, the food (and drink!) of love on offer

February is arguably the years most romantic month with Valentines Day on the 14th. You can take your pick from the many special nights on offer from a top of the range 5 course tasting meal in in the Island Room Restaurant at The Priory Hotel or a three course... read more →

A Taste of…..Newport

Despite its proximity to several large supermarkets, Newport town centre has a wealth of independent food retailers, offering buyers a more personalised shopping experience, as well as a mouth-watering selection of Island-sourced foods, including artisan bread, exotic vegetables, and fresh fish and meat. Some shops also have cafes on site,... read more →

February’s Favourites

February is the ideal month to wage war on the cold with hearty stews, casseroles and one pot cooking. Spring has not quite sprung, so cosy up by the fire and warm up with your pick of comfort food. Taste of the Wight found that February actually has a surprising... read more →

The great and the good of garlic

If your knowledge of cooking with garlic extends to garlic bread, or perhaps a basil-flecked pesto, then it’s likely that you haven’t visited the inspiring and ever-creative Garlic Farm. As the name suggests, (and as your nose will tell you when you walk through its doors) this is the home... read more →

Yarmouth foodies Walk

For a gentle walk through Isle of Wight countryside, with stunning river views, woodland paths and an abundance of wildlife, plus an award-winning pub to provide refreshment along the way, it’s hard to beat a stroll around Yarmouth’s estuary, in the North West of the Island. Starting in the historic... read more →

How do you eat yours? Cadbury changes their legendary Creme Egg recipe

Although not technically local Island food news, the news that Cadbury have changed their chocolate on their Easter treat Cream Egg, has got the nation up in arms! Dairy Milk chocolate has been switched out for standard cocoa mix chocolate as well as reducing the numbers in a box from... read more →

Focus on…Cowes food shops

Shoppers in West Cowes are thoroughly spoilt for choice, with an exciting assortment of independent food shops in town, alongside two supermarkets. Greengrocers: Tucked into the corner of Shooter’s Hill, Ginger is the kind of greengrocers that makes you want to buy everything in sight. Selling the best of the... read more →

Eat Seasonably in 2015

After the excesses of Christmas and the New Year's hangover, January tends to be a month where we take stock and look to change our diet and lifestyle with our new years resolutions. Thankfully, that does not need to mean crash diets and weeks of sobriety. One of the best... read more →

Wight Christmas for Wight Marque Winner

The Red Funnel Cowes Christmas Festival took place over the weekend and one lucky winner was treated to a hamper stuffed full of Wight Marque goodies making it a true "Wight Christmas". Presenting the winner with her prize, Graham Biss, Vice Chair of the Royal Isle of Wight Agricultural Society,... read more →

Lets talk Turkey…at Brownrigg’s

Brownrigg’s are renowned on the Island for their free-range poultry. Around Christmas, they’ll sell over 1000 turkeys, alongside the many geese, duck and chickens. And if you want something a little bit different, you can choose one of their splendid, three bird ‘Royal Roasts’, with either a joint of Duck... read more →

Tis the season for Winter Warmers

Its freezing outside so what could be better than sitting around a roaring fire and enjoying a winter warmer from one of our local producers? Island Ales have re-released their ever popular "Wight Christmas" a festive ale using speciality Munich and malted oats giving a rich malty flavour, with the... read more →

Christmas treats at the Steam Railway

There is still time to enjoy a the Christmas Carvery Night at the Isle of Wight Steam Railway that takes place on Saturday 20th December, starting off a trio of festive food events at the Island’s heritage railway. There’s also the Mince Pie Specials and a New Year Hangover Special.... read more →

Cowes to Newport Cycle Track

The Island has long been a popular destination for cyclists, thanks to its beautiful landscape, varied terrain, and breathtaking views. But if you’re looking for a family-friendly route, that you can safely cycle with even young children, it’s best to go off road and take a quieter route, such as... read more →

Colin Boswell, King of Garlic

Nestled in the Isle of Wight’s fertile Arreton Valley is the award winning Garlic Farm, located on Mersley Farm in Newchurch and the country’s biggest selling garlic producer. The idyllic location offers more than just stunning views; high levels of natural light, natural shelter from the elements and plentiful water... read more →

Spotlight on….Quarr Abbey

The Island is full of hidden gems, and Quarr Abbey’s Tea and Farm Shop is a prime example. Nestled in leafy woodland between Fishbourne and Binstead, the beautiful abbey church was built in 1911 for a small community of Benedictine monks. Visitors come to admire the stunning architecture of the... read more →

Dan Burgess

Caffe Isola has long been regarded as one of the Isle of Wight’s finest coffee shops with latte art being common place. Run by Dan Burgess and his Sicilian wife Viviana, the cafe was originally setup as a flagship outlet for the family’s wholesale business, The I.O.W Espresso Co. “Being... read more →

What’s on in December

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas, everywhere you go.... I Love Wight Christmas Market, Garlic Farm 6th & 7th, 13th & 14th December With over 20 stalls a day, this market will be full of makers, crafters and producers. Free entry and free parking. Christmas Market @ The... read more →

Eldridges take the Taste Tour

Eldridges Solicitors have further cemented themselves as supporters of local producers. After sponsoring the stage within the food pavilion at the RIWAS County Show in June 2014, they have recently commissioned a "Taste Tour" for their staff and clients. Meeting at The Bargeman's Rest, they went on to travel around... read more →

Focus on…Ryde Food Shops

On the eastern flank of the Island, a stone’s skim across the Solent from Portsmouth, the seaside town of Ryde is the most densely populated area on the Isle of Wight. Its residents are well served by some excellent independent shops, which not only benefit the community, ensuring shoppers can... read more →

Minghella moves to Briddlesford

Minghella is probably one of the Island's most iconic brands, with their ice cream being celebrated all over the world, racking up an impressive 80 plus Great Taste Awards as well as many other accolades along the way. After recently announcing that they will leaving their premises in Wootton after... read more →

Tis’ the season

With December nearly upon us, tis' the season to be jolly - jolly tempted by all the seasonal offering's! For the quintessential Christmas turkey you can support your local butcher and order a local bird! Visit Brownriggs, where you will find a handy guide to all things turkey, duck and... read more →

Michelin guide still recognises the Island

The Little Gloster in Gurnard were delighted this week to find out that they have been included in the 2015 Michelin Guide. They join other local establishments including Dan's Kitchen in St Helens; The New Inn in Shalfleet and The Royal at Ventnor in the Isle of Wight section within... read more →

A gluten free Christmas

Its the time of year when we all eat a bit more than we should, dine out most weekends with a the various Christmas parties on offer, and just generally eat, drink and be merry! But what of those with severe intolerance to gluten and wheat, can they enjoy as... read more →

All change at The Hambrough

They are ringing in the changes at The Hambrough. Celebrated chef Darren Beevers has left to set up on the mainland and the kitchen at The Hambrough and sister establishment The Pond Cafe, has shut for the time being, due to re-open next Spring. All the culinary efforts associated with... read more →

A taste of……Bembridge

Sprawling across the Isle of Wight’s far-eastern corner, Bembridge claims to be Britain’s largest village, with around 4000 residents. A brief stroll along its bustling High Street provides one excellent explanation to its popularity: on this single stretch, you can find some of the best independent retailers on the Island.... read more →

Seasonal local IW recipe

This months (November) seasonal and local recipe comes from Fine Nammet. Run by Head chef Paul Massey and partner Jenna, Fine Nammet specialises in quality British dishes with a modern twist. Using local produce whenever they can, they are the first of the hospitality industry to be awarded the gold... read more →

British Sausage week is here!

From the 3rd to 9th of November, you can celebrate all things sausage with British Sausage Week. An annual celebration of quality, taste, and diversity of the Great British Banger. Phil Vickery is this year's celebrity face of the campaign. Winner of the 2011 Celebrity Masterchef and ex-England Rugby star,... read more →

Culver downs food trail

A killer view always enhances any dining experience, and the Culver Haven Inn, on the summit of Culver Downs, offers one of the most spectacular and far-reaching views across the Isle of Wight. Its traditional pub fare is served from Wednesday to Sunday, and features some Island produce (such as IOW... read more →

Pumpkins a plenty

The most famous of the winter squashes, the Pumpkin conjures up images of witches and wizards as children hollow them out as lanterns for Halloween - but inside the hard orange skin, the bright orange fresh is actually a delicious, honied treat. A great source of fibre, they are also... read more →

Set sail for the Garden Isle

Taste of the Wight is looking forward to working with Visit Isle of Wight to bring the concept of Garden Isle to life next year. There's a great link here to the Island's amazing food and drink sector as well as the fantastic range of places to enjoy eating and... read more →

Goddards collaborate with J.Wilkinsons to create another tasty treat

Goddards Brewery have collaborated with local family business J. Wilkinson's, who specialise in pork pies and other tasty savoury treats, to create a twist on the firm favourite Steak & Ale pie. Steak and Duck's Folly ale pie uses Goddards ale Duck's Folly. A distinctive, traditionally brewed strong English ale.... read more →

New Move ahead for Minghellas

After being based for almost 30 years at its factory in Wootton, Minghella ice cream will be relocating in 2015 to new premises on the Isle of Wight. “My father Eddie, who founded the business in 1950, has decided that this is the right time to take ‘early’ retirement. Now... read more →

Paul Hollywood’s British Baking takes inspiration from the Isle of Wight

The Telegraph this weekend published two 40 page pull-out excerpt from Paul Hollywood's British Baking. Packed with over 40 recipes to try at home, the famous artisan baker has taken inspiration from around the British Isles to create regional delights in the form of cakes, pies & pastries. The Isle... read more →

The Island Bakers up for Hampshire Life award

Local artisan bakers, The Island Bakers are up for a coveted Hampshire Life 2014 food and Drink award. The awards recognise the importance of the local food and drink industry and supports the many businesses within it. Nominations are made by their readers and then shortlisted by a panel of... read more →

take a ride during Beer & Buses weekend 2014

Beer & Buses Weekend arrives on the Island on Saturday 18th and Sunday 19th October. The IW branch of CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale) supported by Taste of the Wight, has teamed up with the IW Bus Museum to present an exciting weekend. Featuring an extensive network of bus routes... read more →

Taste of the Wight and Visit Isle of Wight are joining forces

Taste of the Wight are delighted to announce an exciting new partnership with Visit Isle of Wight, the Island's official marketing organisation, promoting the Island's food and drink. As well as working together at exciting events such as the recent 'Wightminster' showcase for Island food, at the Palace of Westminster,... read more →

Get in on the secret with The Secret SupperClub

The Secret SupperClub is exactly that - a secret! Set in various pop-up locations around the Island, from a village hall to a church undercroft, guests are treated to a three course themed meal with suitable unique entertainment. The location is not revealed until the last moment and you can... read more →

"The Recipe Wheel" released to excellent reviews

An Island born food writer, Rosie Ramsden has just released her first cookbook "The Recipe Wheel". Rosie returned to the Island as a "guest chef" at a pop-up supper club at The Piano Cafe in Freshwater, in July this year. After being a food writer for some years for magazine... read more →

Sweetcorn harvest time celebrated this weekend

September sees the culmination of the sweetcorn season and here on the island this time is celebrated with the annual Sweetcorn Fayre at in the heart of the Arreton Valley, with a two day event at Arreton Barns and The Dairyman's Daughter. The Sweetcorn on the Island thrives due to... read more →

Blackberries at their prime

September is the best month for blackberries. The Island's hedgerows seem to be bursting with them and you can often find people picking them when you take a walk thought the countryside. With a juicy and intense flavour and packed full of vitamin C, they can be eaten raw (straight... read more →

Foodie Events to visit this September

It might be entering into autumn but the Island still has lots going on, with its local food and drink being right at the heart. There are some great events coming up to get your foodie fix: Sunday 21st September sees the Hops Festival at Ventnor Botanical Gardens. Celebrating the... read more →

Cowes food show moves to a new location

The Red Funnel Cowes Food Show took place yesterday (14th September) at the new location of Northwood House. The decision was taken to move the show from Red Funnel's Red Jet Fountain Quay to the house and grounds at Northwood. The theme for September's show was Harvest Festival, with a... read more →

September is Organic month

September 2014 is organic month and a time to celebrate our organic and much loved local produce. Local producer The Tomato Stall are currently up for the Soil Association Organic award for 2014 for "Organic alcoholic drinks" for their organic pure Isle of Wight Tomato Juice. You can get behind... read more →

Hops Picking in the sunshine

Yesterday (10th September 2014) saw the annual Hops Picking event at Ventnor Botanical Garden. Pickers were out in force in the sunshine, in the hops area and picking and filling large buckets and bags. Hops is one of the main ingredients in ale and this hops in particular is an... read more →

A new award for the New Inn

The New Inn in Shalfleet has been awarded "Dining pub of the year" by CAMRA (Campaign for real ale). The award was unveiled in the latest edition of the "Good Pub Guide". The New Inn is run by Martin Bullock and is part of a group of four sister pubs... read more →

Local food and drink is a huge success at Westminster 2014

Yesterday (2nd September 2014) saw the second Isle of Wight at Westminster day, dubbed Wightminster 2014. The day was officially opened by Lady Cobham, Chairman of VisitEngland, and was busy from start to finish with guests arriving at a garden entrance created with beautiful plants from Ventnor Botanical Gardens. Guests... read more →

"Wightminster" is nearly here

Taste of the Wight is excited to be supporting this years "Isle of Wight at Westminster Day" on Tuesday 2nd September. Working alongside the Island's MP Andrew Turner and Visit Isle of Wight, the day will aim to celebrate the Island, promoting and raising its profile with local food and... read more →

Great Taste award first for The Tomato Stall

The Tomato Stall have recently been awarded the Great Taste 2014 for all four of their submissions, with their very own fresh tomatoes being amongst the winners which is a first for the Great Taste Awards. The Piccolo cherry tomatoes were awarded 2 stars and judges commented on their "fantastic... read more →

Tatler Magazine recommends Minghella Ice Cream in latest edition

Tatler UK Magazine has released an online article entitled "Food Crush: Ice Cream" where writer Jennifer George waxes lyrical about her love, and the nations love, of ice cream (seriously, who doesn't love Ice cream?!). Within the article, Minghella's "The Empress's Peach Pudding" comes up trumps, alongside super ice cream... read more →

In season now: Courgettes

Courgettes and their edible flowers, are in season now and at their very best, with gardens bursting with these green goodies! From the same family as the cucumber, melon and squash, the courgette is extremely versatile and very easy to cook (as long as you don't boil them!) Get your... read more →

Bite the Wight Big Breakfast

Bite the Wight is a celebration of the Island's food and drink in support of the Isle of Wight Youth Trust. This year, events will take place across the Island on the 24th and 25th October with more than 40 IW businesses already signed up. Today (15th August) saw the... read more →

Jamie Oliver’s Fifteen Apprenticeships Programme comes to the Island

The Fifteen Apprenticeship Programme was born out of Jamie Oliver's idea of cooking becoming a potential career path for young unemployed people - particularly those who had perhaps fallen out of mainstream education and were in need of a fresh start. From here the concept of Fifteen took shape. The... read more →

More praise for the Island as a food destination

We have always known how wonderful the Island is and the food and drink produced on it, but its lovely when this is recognised further afield! After the brilliant write-up from Jamie Oliver's Magazine last week, website The Culture Trip is running a feature on the Island's "Top Ten Restaurants... read more →

Friday Fish Tasting

From Friday 26th September and running on the last Friday of each month during the Winter, The Seaview Hotel will be hosting their famous sea fresh four course fish tasting supper. Chef Bruce Theobald is well known for his use of seafood in his amazing dishes, and since coming to... read more →

Jamie Oliver helps to put the Isle of Wight on the foodie map!

In the latest issue of Jamie Oliver's magazine, the Isle of Wight is featured as "Britain's gourmet island getaway". High praise indeed from one of the UK's best loved and well known chefs. Featuring beautiful images and some lovely quotes about the Island and the food and drink produced here,... read more →

Wight Marque travels to the New Forest

The new Wight Marque, which is a sign of truly local food and drink from the Isle of Wight, will be promoted at this year's New Forest Show that open today (29th July). David Brooks from Taste of the Wight, which supports the marketing for the Wight Marque with the... read more →

Island Food & Drink to star at Westminster in September

Last year the Isle of Wight held a showcase for the day at Westminster, organised by Andrew Turner and Taste of the Wight joined by the IW Council, Chamber and others to support the initiative. 'Wightminster' as it was dubbed, proved to be a great success for the Island's food... read more →

Wight Marque produce to feature in the New Forest Show

After the successful launch of the Wight Marque at the RIWAS County Show back in June, we are delighted to be representing some of our local Wight Marque producers at the New Forest Show next week. The New Forest Show is a huge summer tradition, firmly in the calendars of... read more →

Local sizzling sausages for national Hot Dog Day, 23rd July 2014

Tomorrow (23rd July 2014) sees the celebration of the American classic, the Hot Dog. Culturally imported from Germany, the sausage was popularised in the United States as street food sold from hot dog vendors. Give the national celebration a British twist with a British banger. Local sausages are in abundance... read more →

Spotlight on the first Wight Marque member – Oil of Wight

Caroline Knox is well known in the farming community on the Isle of Wight. As well as being County Chairman of the Island's NFU branch, and part of her families long-standing farming business, she is also a local producer of Oil of Wight, grown, pressed and bottled on the Island.... read more →

BBc’s Radio 4’s The Kitchen Cabinet records a programme on the Island

BBC's Radio 4's The Kitchen Cabinet on Saturday mornings at 10.30am, hosted by Jay Rayner is being recorded here on the Isle of Wight. The Kitchen Cabinet is a witty and fast paced programme that is packed full of information for the home cook. You can put your questions on... read more →

New Laneways Cafe & Bar opens, bringing a taste of Melbourne Australia, to the Isle of Wight

The new Laneway's Cafe and Bar has opened in Town Lane in Newport. Aiming to bring the essence of Melbourne to the Island, Laneways Cafe & Bar is based on the thriving cafe culture in the laneways of Melbourne, Australia. Here, laneways are narrow enclaves where mainstream culture takes a... read more →

Recipe book is fitting tribute to popular Island chef, Martin Scovell

Inns of Distinction have created a recipe book based on the original written versions taken from Martin Scovell's workbook. Martin was working as the Head Chef at The Boathouse, when last year he tragically died at the young age of 41. In a very fitting tribute, the book is beautifully... read more →

Foodie Holiday Heaven here on the Island

Vintage Vacations on the Isle of Wight are bringing back their brilliantly popular Airstream Cookouts, with the first one starting this coming Wednesday 9th July. Based at Hazelgrove Farm in Ryde, you can enjoy the atmosphere and food for £20 per person or dine and stay (in an Airstream naturally...)... read more →

Its a Strawberry Summer

Well Andy Murray might be out of Wimbledon 2014 but we can still enjoy Wimbledon's finest, the delicious Strawberry! Strawberries are synonymous with Wimbledon due to the fact that they are a traditional British fruit and are in perfect season during the summer months. Happily heart shaped and tastier than... read more →

Beautiful Bloomers from the Island Bakers

The award winning Island Bakers have opened their first shop in the capital town of Newport in June 2014. Upper St James street now plays home to a shop stocked full of delicious artisan breads, sour doughs, cakes, savouries, coffees and far more.  The award winning bakers Helen and John... read more →

Taste of the Wight Pavilion success at County Show

Taste of the Wight organised Food& Drink pavilion at the Royal Isle of Wight County Show this year on Saturday, 28th June. It proved to be at a great success with a combination of the Farmers Market, Stage area and pop-up Farm Shop. Featuring in the Farmers Market were the... read more →

Mark Randerson

With a true passion for authenticity, Chef and Owner Mark Randerson, creates a taste of the world using only the best Isle of Wight ingredients; influenced by a knowledge of global cultures and experience gained from living and working abroad with renowned chefs at some of the world’s most prestigious... read more →

Five course fish menu at The Seaview

Fish Tasting Menu at The Seaview Hotel Thursday 19th June 7.30pm Since moving to the Isle of Wight, head chef at The Seaview, Bruce Theobald, has been amazed by the superb quality and variety of the fish and shellfish available. ‘It’s a chef’s dream to have fish so fresh they literally swim into... read more →

Foodie Events to visit this Summer

Here on the Island we are lucky to have many events going on throughout the year. Things really step up a gear in the summer months, from festivals to fireworks, sailing races to live shows. Being interested in all things food related, Taste of the Wight is looking at what... read more →

The Bargeman’s Rest turns 15 years old

Popular Island pub, The Bargeman's Rest, turned 15 years old on Friday 6th June. Invited guests were treated to a night of great live music with sets from Black Daniels Band and Last Orders. Guests tucked into a free buffet and a slice of the birthday cake, shaped like The... read more →

Sizzling Wight Squirrel Sausages

You can now enjoy a perfect combination of sausages and beer thanks to an exciting collaboration between Goddards Brewery and renowned local Island Butcher, Paul Murphy. Paul has been a butcher for over 40 years and brings his great expertise and knowledge to create a flavoursome fusion of Wight Squirrel beer... read more →

Minghella – Britain’s best ice cream…

Minghella has been recognised as one of Britain's best ice cream makers by The Daily Telegraph... This week The Daily Telegraph published a list of the UK's best ice cream makers and we were delighted to have been picked as one of just ten in the whole country. It listed a number of... read more →

Wight Marque accredits first Island businesses

Just a few weeks after the launch of the Wight Marque to the food and drinks trade on the Isle of Wight, the first two Island businesses have been fully accredited as Wight Marque audited members. This means that the produce is certified as coming from the Isle of Wight... read more →

Martin Bullock & Philip Gilbraith

Martin Bullock has owned The New Inn at Shalfleet since May 1997. Over the past 17 years the pub has received many accolades and awards, with the addition of being included in the UK Michelin Good Pub Guide for the past two years. Martin and his colleague Mark McDonald then... read more →

It’s British Tomato Week

British Tomato week runs this year from Monday 19th May until 25th May 2014. Super tasty and versatile, the humble tomato is a staple in many of our diets, consumed raw, as an ingredient in many dishes, sauces, salads and drinks. Whether the tomato is a fruit or a vegetable... read more →

Tastes from around the Island

Taste of the Wight has been lucky enough this week to have been out and about sampling some of the delicious local produce available on the Island. The first stop was to Goddards Brewery. Hidden down a long and winding country road, the smell of the hops was intoxicating and... read more →

JD Wetherspoon opens in third pub on the Island

The new JD Wetherspoon pub will open on Tuesday 20th May 2014. Open from 7am through to 12.30am Sunday to Thursday and 7am until 1.30am on Friday and Saturday. The food will be traditional pub fare and Wetherspoon classics and will be served until 11pm everyday. The Man in the... read more →

Yarmouth’s First Artisan Coffee House Opening May 2014

Opening on Saturday 17th May 2014, the Island's beautiful town Yarmouth will become home to an exciting new artisan coffee house, the first for the ancient harbour town. Conveniently positioned on Quay St, the coffee house will be known as PO41 - acknowledging both the heritage of its Yarmouth postcode and... read more →

Beautiful Beach Cafes to enjoy this Summer

With Summer fast approaching (hopefully!) and those hazy heady days just around the corner, it seems like the perfect time to make the most of the Islands beautiful beaches and check out the local beach cafes.  Beach cafes have moved on a long way from offering little more than some extra... read more →

The Boat Cookbook is launched

Fiona Sims is an award winning food and drink writer who has written for The Times, The Guardian and Delicious to name but a few. She splits her time between Yarmouth here on the Isle of Wight and London. As a keen sailor, Fiona spends a lot of time on... read more →

Wight Marque – Truly local produce from the Isle of Wight

Today saw the exciting launch of the Wight Marque take place at the Red Funnel Cowes Food Show. Wight Marque will be owned and managed by the Royal Isle of Wight Agricultural Society (RIWAS) who have supported the local rural community and rural businesses for the last 100 years. It... read more →

Perfectly Matched

The Fishbourne pub has always prided itself on offering quality dining and for championing local produce. The latest edition to its menu is not only a brilliant example of flavour combinations but also uses some very local ingredients. May's ‘dish of the month’ is their homemade lamb burger with goats... read more →

New name, fresh menu

The ever popular Chale Green Stores has recently reopened its re-vamped cafe "The Deli on the Green". A fresh menu offering everything from cakes, snacks and light refreshments, to a full meal makes this a must visit. Fully licensed and with a charming outdoor seating area, it really is a... read more →

Quarr Abbey launches new ale

Nestled in the beautiful and tranquil surroundings of Quarr Abbey is the hidden gem of Quarr Abbey Tea Garden and Farmshop. It’s a delightful place to enjoy a slice of homemade cake as well as sample produce form the Abbey. This now includes Quarr Abbey Ale that continues a long-standing... read more →

Quarr Abbey Ale Launch April 014

Nestled in the beautiful and tranquil surroundings of Quarr Abbey, is the hidden gem of Quarr Abbey Tea Garden and Farmshop - the perfect place to enjoy a slice of homemade cake and a pint! Well, not quite a pint but with the introduction of the new Quarr Abbey Ale,... read more →

Fresh from the sea

Being an island, surrounded by the sea, you'd hope to find that seafood would be a local speciality. Thats to fishermen like those at Ventnor Haven, this is indeed the case. Whilst seafood features on menus across the Island from pubs to beach cafes like The Beach Shack in Sandown,... read more →

Taste of the Wight 2014 has arrived

The latest edition of Taste of the Wight is now available! You can pick up your copy at ferry terminals, in the Tourist Information Centres and at numerous other points across the Island. The new guide continues to showcase the quality and diversity of local produce and places to eat... read more →

Isle of Wight ales, wines and ciders

The Isle of Wight is home to some of the best breweries, vineyards and apple orchards in the country. From full-bodied wines to award-winning real ales, there's a tipple for everyone on our little Island. Even the traditional harvest, milling, pressing and fermenting process of producing apple cider is kept... read more →

Roger Serjent

“Being a chef on the Isle of Wight is so stimulating. It is like opening a giant larder and finding it fully stocked with all the things you want to cook.” Roger Serjent is known across the Isle of Wight as a true champion of local food. As the proprietor... read more →

Joanne Bennett

Located in a quaint cottage in the village of Bonchurch, The Pond Café lies nestled next to the picturesque duck pond.  The team provide a warm and friendly service in the intimate 25 cover restaurant with the delightful 16 seater terrace. Head Chef Joanne Bennett creates rustic Italian inspired dishes... read more →

Conrad Gauntlett

The ever-popular Rosemary Vineyard was planted in 1986 on land accquired by Conrad Gauntlett when he moved to the Isle of Wight. "The land is almost 60 feet above sea level, is free draining and mostly south facing so ideally placed to benefit from the Island's mild climate and excellent... read more →

Michelin starred chef moves to The George

Top Isle of Wight chef, Robert Thompson has recently become the new Head Chef at The George Hotel in Yarmouth. His appointment has been confirmed amongst rumours of the hotel being sold to National Lottery boxx, Dianne Thompson. Robert, Michelin starred chef has said: "I'm honoured to be working on... read more →

Richard Hodgson

Although born in Newcastle, Richard grew up in the West Wight and formed The Isle of Wight Cheese Company in 2006 with his mother Julie. Time spent at Reaseheath agricultural college and the School of Artisan Food has given Richard the foundation on which to develop his range of cheeses.... read more →

Darren Beevers

Sitting high above the fishing harbour in Ventnor, The Hambrough Restaurant with Rooms offers fine dining and boutique accommodation by the sea. With its amazing sea views, the 35 cover Restaurant offers the perfect backdrop for Head Chef Darren Beevers modern locally inspired dishes. Where possible Darren uses a majority... read more →

Fresh beginnings at Ventnor Botanic Garden

Ventnor Botanic Garden has just announced that Graham Walker will be taking up the position as new Head Chef. Taking over the management of The Plantation Room Cafe as well as edulis Restaurant, Graham, along with newly appointed Front of House Manager, Kirsty Lawrie will be delivering an excellent dining... read more →

CAMRA IW Pub of the Year

We're blessed here on the Isle of Wight with over 160 great pubs and bars ranging from coastal pubs like the Spyglass Inn who are kist metres from the sea to idylic countryside pubs like the Three Bishops that offer beautiful rural views. Every year, the Campaign for Real Ale... read more →

Isle of Wight food to feature on BBC

A number of Isle of Wight based food companies are soon to be gracing the BBC1 in James Martin's Home Comforts programme. Medina Food service, Isle of Wight Biltong and Natural Wight Mushrooms will each be featured in the shos airing on 5th and 7th March at 3.45pm. The TV... read more →

Eat locally and seasonably!

It's a brand new year and people everywhere are making New Year's resolutions to stop eating so much chocolate, to cut down on their calorie counts and to take up more exercise but our proposed resolution for everyone in 2014 is simply to eat more local food and embrace seasonal... read more →

Master brewer returns to the Isle of Wight

Real ale lovers across the Isle of Wight will be delighted to hear that Xavier Baker, the former Master Brewer from Ventnor Brewery which is no longer, has returned to the Isle of Wight to brew again. Xavier is now joining the team at Goddard's Brewery as an Associate Director... read more →

Rioja evening at The Met

Anyone who attended the wine tasting evening at The Met, Ventnor on Tuesday 28th January was treated to a wonderful tour-de-force through the Rioja valley of Spain, with a wonderful selection of matched tapas to complement the wine selection. Oscar Urrutia, the Export Director of Cune Rioja travelled from Spain... read more →

Emma Guy

The Beach Hut Cafe in Bembridge is fast becoming the go-to destination for fresh, simple food on the beach. Owner and chef, Emma Guy, works alongside husband Jon who she met whilst at Ryde School. After finishing school, Emma entered a career in marketing and live events with a number... read more →

Real Ale Festival kicks off this weekend

A local real ale festival kicks off this weekend at the Cowes Ale House, Shooters Hill, Cowes. The small local bar serves a delicious range of local and national real cask ales and is offering tasting notes & an ale list for the extent of the Real Ale Festival which... read more →

Award for NFU representative

A local National Farmers Union representative from the Isle of Wight has been recognised with an award. Group secretary John Heather has received an NFU High Achiever award at a ceremony held at the Marriott Forest of Arden Hotel in the West Midlands, last week.

Isle of Wight

  The Isle of Wight is fast becoming synonymous with fabulous food establishments and wonderful quality produce but there's is so much more to the Island than just the delicious food. Here you will find inspiring articles on our many walking and cycling routes (with a foodie theme of course)... read more →

Truffles & wild mushrooms at The George

As part of The George Hotel's ongoing winter events programme, the next foodie event is taking place on Friday 7th February from 7.15pm. There will be cooking demonstrations with Head Chef Austin Gould; another fun and informative demonstration followed by a two course supper with this theme's Truffles and wild... read more →

Honeyed Carrot Soup

This delicious winter soup makes the most of carrots while they are in season and is sweetened by the addition of Isle of Wight Honey from our very own High Sherrif, Mary Case. This recipe will serve approximately 6 and is deliciously simple. Ingredients 2tbsp Isle of Wight butter 2... read more →

Island Wine Company offer their Christmas wines

Christmas is a time when many invest in drinks they wouldnt buy any other time of the year. In response to this, The Island Wine Company have provided their pick of the drinks for the festive period. Champagne First up is the bubbly. Prosecco is all the rage right now... read more →

Wild Duck aged in Beeswax

Christmas will soon be upon us and turkey is not the only bird to have around this time. Duck is another favourite and this recipe is sure to give you a completely different angle on what you can do with it using local, Isle of WIght produce. This recipe is... read more →

A taste of festive menus this Christmas

Christmas is a time for bringing together friends and family for great fun, festivities and food, but if you're looking to go out for a meal and can't decide where to go, this guide is here to help with your choice. The Island is full of places to eat whether you're... read more →

Briddlesford milk to boost Dutch ice cream

Briddlesfod Lodge Farm in Wootton, home to the Griffin family who have been on the site for many years, has exported 6 pedigree Guernsey heifers, along with Alfred the bull from their herd to a farm in Holland where what is believed to be the first herd of its kind... read more →

Buttered Leeks

This is a simple recipe for buttered leeks which shows off the common leek in all its glory. Leeks are especially good from November to April. They are a Scottish favourite and this is one of the best ways to cook them, slowly and gently. Ingredients 1.8kg leeks, trimmed 50g... read more →

Seafood Corner opens in Newport

A new seafood shop and take away has opened in Newport High Street this morning. Seafood Corner, the retail store addition to the already very well-known and popular Ventnor Haven Fishery which is run by Geoff and Cheryl Blake opened its doors this morning after the final preparations had been made and... read more →

"Valentine Gray" set to open later in November

The name of Valentine Gray, an apprentice chimney sweep who tragically died in 1822, will be further immortalised when a new pub opens in Newport at the end of November. It is understood that Rob & Mike Benwell, owners of the Character Group are in the process of converting the former cafe "The Square" into... read more →

Game night at The George

Once a staple of the British diet, game has more recently become less widely used and many consider it an unusual ingredient. Austin Gould, Head Chef at The George Hotel in Yarmouth held a Game Night with the aim of dispelling some of the myth and mystery surrounding game and... read more →

Local Farmers’ Markets

The Isle of Wight's Farmers' Markets are amongst the few in the country to still be held every week, and feature some of the Island's best farmers, producers, growers and cooks. There is a range of produce available including fresh seasonal fruit and vegetables, local honey, home baked bread, award... read more →

Weekend of local food for the Island

This weekend is going to be packed full of local food and produce. With the Red Funnel Cowes Food Show on Sunday and the Festival of the Sea kicking off on Saturday to highlight all that's great about the Island's coastline, there's a definite highlight on local produce. A weekend... read more →

Girl’s guide to the Isle of Wight

The Telegraph Travel website has just published a "girl's guide" to the Isle of Wight which picks out places to stay and shop as well as where to eat and drink. Here's an excerpt from the feature: Head to the Isle of Wight to flit between country pubs and seaside... read more →

Taste – coming to an event near you!

We're looking forward to attending various shows and events this year to promote Taste of the Wight and the Island's local produce. Coming up over the summer we will be at the following shows: The Great Food Debate: 24th July Isle of Wight Chilli Fiesta: 28th July Chale Show: 3... read more →

Taste of the Wight hampers and welcome packs

Accommodation providers across the Isle of Wight can now greet their guests with a delicious welcome pack or gift hamper created by Briddlesford Lodge Farm showcasing Isle of Wight produce and encouraging visitors to buy local. The Gift Hamper, which includes a range of range of local produce that will... read more →

Tomato & Apple Chutney

Chutneys are great for preserving fresh, seasonal produce when it's plentiful. They're also a good way to  use up bruised or squashy fruits. This recipe is produced in partnership with The Apple Farm based in Freshwater and The Tomato Stall in Arreton.   Ingredients 570ml malt vinegar 450g soft brown... read more →

Taste of the Wight second edition has arrived

The second edition of Taste of the Wight is now available! This guide is much improved from the first edition; we've added pages, added editorial, improved the imagery and brought some new local producers onboard. We hope you like it!

First edition of Taste arrives

The first edition of the relaunched Taste of the Wight guide is now available. This guide aims to showcase the quality and diversity of local produce on the Isle of Wight. We are now producing the summer edition of Taste of the Wight. If you would like to be involved,... read more →

Eat well this September

Eating seasonably allows you to enjoy delicious Isle of Wight produce at exactly the right time of year and September on the Island is one of the best months for local produce including sweetcorn, blackberries, apples and courgettes. The Isle of Wight is known among locals as being a great... read more →

Bridget Wells

Bridget was born and grew up on the Island, a member of the Wells family who have been a part of Island life for generations. Upon leaving school at eighteen, Bridget immediately began a kitchen apprenticeship at The Royal Hotel, Ventnor, doing one day a week at college with HTP.... read more →

Mary Case

Born at Compton Farm, Mary Case is one of the best known members of the IW farming community. She is a lady of many talents, growing apples, keeping bees and farming both sheep and turkeys on a mixed arable farm in Limerstone. Since her appointment as High Sheriff of the... read more →

Gioia Minghella

The Minghella family has been making the Isle of Wight’s finest ice cream since 1950 and Gioia Minghella is convinced that using milk and cream from the Island makes all the difference. “The milk here just tastes better,” says Gioia. “Perhaps it’s because the cows are so well looked after?... read more →

Alan Staley

Alan Staley is widely regarded as one of the most experienced chefs on the island. His depth of culinary skills, allow ingredients to shine without fuss or pretension. Originally he trained at the Isle of Wight College before beginning his career as a junior chef at the Savoy Hotel under... read more →

Oliver Stephens

The Priory Bay Hotel is a haven for showbiz personalities and minor royalty who are seeking to get away from it all. Up to now the hotel has not created any celebrities of its own - but this may be about to change. An Island boy who started his catering... read more →

Local Food Revolution

A diner from twenty years ago transported to an Isle of Wight pub or restaurant of today would notice some remarkable changes. The disappearance of the ubiquitous miasma of cigarette smoke would probably be the first to be observed, and perhaps the most welcome. Soon afterwards, a glance at the... read more →

Chris Griffin

Remember when your gran would harp on about the days when everyone had their doors unlocked and meat and vegetables were delivered to your doorstep, along with milk and lemonade? Her friendly neighbours were on first name terms with their postman and butcher, and the sun always shone. This rosy... read more →

Steve & Adam Doe

Steve Doe is a butcher through and through. These days he's the managing director of one of the Island's larger meat suppliers yet there's no doubt that he fondly remembers the time when he worked behind the counter of his butcher's shop in Sandown. The success of that business allowed... read more →

Martyn Cutler

Visitors to Ventnor Botanic Garden could be forgiven for thinking they had stumbled into some kind of benign culinary apothecary's workshop. The new Plantation Room tea room is equipped with glass teapots, tea is displayed in test tubes, and everything has a scientific name on display - all very botanical.... read more →

The Local Food Revolution

Isle of Wight food and drink - your local guide   The Isle of Wight is fast becoming the foodie capital of the south coast and it is easy to see why! With an abundance of cafes/tearoom, fine dining, restaurants, farm shops and of course pubs, there is something to... read more →

Eat Seasonably

Eating seasonably allows you to enjoy delicious Isle of Wight fruit and vegetables at exactly the right time of year, fresh salads when it’s hot and sunny, comforting stew to warm your bones on a cold winter's day.   Each variety has its perfect time when it’s at its seasonal... read more →

Shopping ‘local’

With miles of rolling countryside and coastline, it is no surprise that the Isle of Wight is a mecca for locally produced food. There are a wide range of cafés, pubs and restaurants which serve locally sourced food throughout the year, and eating out on the Island is highly recommended... read more →

Union Street – Food Hub

Georgian Ryde, the ‘gateway to the Isle of Wight’, had a boom time after the war; the piers and Esplanades were jammed with daytrippers and deckchairs were at a premium. However, as with a lot of English seaside resorts, the lure of the foreign package holidays had an impact and... read more →

Pumpkin Risotto

If you've got left over risotto, this is a great recipe to try. The Italian's have a similar dish called arancini with is traditionally served in bite sized balls as an appetiser. This recipe is made in partnership with Farmer Jack's Farm shop in Arreton and Brownrigg Poultry Farm.  ... read more →

Chilli Chocolate Mousse with Orange Sorbet

This dessert can be tweaked depending on how hot you like your chilli but it's a great recipe for these autumn nights. This recipe is produced in partnership with Dan's Kitchen in St Helen's and House Of Chilli in Godshill. Ingredients   White chocolate mousse: 90g Isle of Wight milk... read more →

Pumpkin Soup

Kids love creating scary faces and getting stuck in to dig out the juicy pumpkin flesh at the time of year. This easy recipe uses the flesh which is often discarded to create a wonderful warm, sweet soup and using Isle of Wight produce means the food miles are significantly... read more →