Whitby’s Culinary Delights: Traditional Fare & Local Flavours.
Whitby is a haven for seafood lovers and those seeking traditional British fare. With its rich maritime history and access to fresh, local ingredients, Whitby boasts a culinary scene that is both diverse and deeply rooted in tradition. Here are some of the must-try food delicacies that Whitby has to offer:
Fish and Chips: No trip to Whitby is complete without indulging in the quintessential British dish – fish and chips. Whitby’s fish and chips are renowned for their freshness and quality, with locally caught cod and haddock fried to perfection in crispy batter and served with generous portions of golden chips. There are numerous fish and chip shops around the town, each claiming to serve the best in town. Why not try them and form your own opinion!
Fortune’s Kippers: A Whitby institution, Fortune’s Smokehouse has been producing traditional smoked kippers since 1872. These succulent smoked herring are a local delicacy, best enjoyed for breakfast or a light lunch. The smokehouse, located on Henrietta Street, is a must-visit for those seeking an authentic taste of Whitby’s culinary heritage.
Crab: Whitby’s location on the Yorkshire coast makes it an ideal place to savour fresh crab. Whitby crab is known for its sweet, delicate flavour and is prepared in various ways, from dressed crab salads to crab cakes. Many local restaurants and pubs feature crab dishes on their menus, allowing visitors to experience the taste of the sea.
Botham’s Lemon Buns: Botham’s of Whitby, a family-run bakery established in 1865, is a treasure trove of traditional Yorkshire treats. Their iconic lemon buns are a must-try, with a light, fluffy texture and a tangy lemon glaze. These buns have gained national recognition, even inspiring recipes from renowned chefs.
Humble Pie ‘n’ Mash: For a taste of hearty, traditional fare, head to Humble Pie ‘n’ Mash. This charming eatery serves up classic British pies filled with savoury meats and vegetables, accompanied by creamy mashed potatoes and rich gravy. It’s the perfect comfort food after a blustery walk along the coast.
Trillo’s Ice Cream: Trillo’s of Whitby have been making ice cream in their Whitby factory for over a century. The Trillo’s family originally moved to Whitby from Italy, bringing their ice cream recipes with them. They offer a wide array of ice cream and sorbet flavours, including unique creations like Whitby Jet Ice Cream.
Parkin: A traditional Yorkshire gingerbread cake, parkin is a sticky, dark treat made with oatmeal, treacle, and ginger. It’s particularly popular during the autumn and winter months, offering a warming and comforting flavour. Whitby’s bakeries and cafes often feature parkin on their menus.
Whitby Gin: Whitby Gin is the brainchild of Luke and Jess, a couple with a passion for gin and a deep connection to their hometown. Established in 2017, Whitby Distillery use carefully selected blend of botanicals, which includes both traditional gin ingredients and those unique to the Yorkshire landscape. Juniper, coriander, and citrus provide the classic gin base, while heather from the North York Moors, sugar kelp foraged from the local coastline, and Yorkshire honey add a distinctive local touch.
Whitby Brewery can be found next to the Abbey on East Cliff. They have been producing their craft ales since 2013 and offer a great range which are sold both locally in the pubs around Whitby or directly at the brewery. If you fancy learning more about the brewery and the process of brewing, they hold tours including ale tasting, tickets can be purchased via their website.
The Whitby Deli: This is another great place to find excellent local produce such as cheeses, award winning chutneys and jams, pies and pastries, or buy a bespoke hamper — the perfect gift for any foodie.
In addition to these culinary delights, Whitby offers a wide range of dining experiences, from cozy pubs serving traditional fare to upscale restaurants showcasing innovative cuisine.
Whether you’re seeking a taste of the sea, a traditional British dish, or a unique culinary adventure, Whitby has something to satisfy every palate.
