North Wales’ Top Spots for Food, Drink, and Sea Views
Published on 30 Sep 2024 by Amy GreenwoodThere’s something undeniably captivating about the sea – the soothing sound of waves, the shifting hues of the horizon, and the stunning views that come with any coastal setting. Now imagine enjoying a leisurely lunch, or a classic cocktail, while soaking up that magical seaside atmosphere. What could be better?
Along the North Wales coast, there are plenty of great spots to enjoy food, drink, and sea views, from seafront pubs to coastal cafes, all serving tasty treats with a side of stunning scenery. Whether you’re craving a fresh seafood platter, a beachside pint, or coffee and cake with a view, we’ve handpicked seven of our favourite spots in stunning seaside settings.
Welcome to our guide to some of North Wales’ top spots for food, drink, and sea views!
Ty Coch – Porthdinllaen
Find it – Tŷ Coch Inn, Porthdinllaen, Morfa Nefyn, LL53 6DB
Located at the end of a beautiful sweeping bay, in the old fishing village of Porthdinllaen, the Tŷ Coch Inn is an iconic seafront pub and a must-visit for anyone exploring Pen Llŷn. Located right on the beach, you can enjoy a drink with your toes in the sand, whilst soaking up the picturesque surroundings. On clear days, the views across the bay to Yr Eifil are simply spectacular.
If the Welsh weather takes a turn, there are a handful of indoor tables, and a large covered terrace which ensures you can enjoy the stunning scenery, come rain or shine.
Dylan’s – Criccieth
Find it – Dylan’s, Maes y Mor, Criccieth, LL52 0HU
Just a stone’s throw from the beach, Dylan’s in Criccieth is housed in the stunning Art Deco Morannedd building, designed by Clough Williams-Ellis – famed for creating Portmeirion. This stylish restaurant has a sleek glass frontage, perfect for taking in the views that stretch from Criccieth Castle to Harlech, and the distant Rhinog mountains.
Outside there’s a terraced seating area as well as ‘the boardwalk’, right at the edge of the sand. Whether you’re enjoying a sunset drink or an atmospheric meal, Dylan’s is one of the best choices for seaside dining, and a top spot to enjoy Criccieth’s annual Bonfire Night fireworks.
NorBar – Barmouth
Find it – Norbar, Llanaber, Barmouth, LL42 1RR
Overlooking the sea at Llanaber, just outside Barmouth, this stylish restaurant serves up seafood and sea views with a varied menu that specialises in all things seafood. You’ll find calamari, crab, oysters, moules marinière, Cardigan Bay lobster and seafood platters on the menu, along with steak, chicken, vegetarian and vegan options. NorBar also offers a wide selection of wines, and some very tempting puds.
The Swellies – Y Felinheli
Find it – Port Dinorwic Marina, Y Felinheli, LL56 4JN
Located on the waterfront at Dinorwic Marina in Felinheli, this ‘cafe on the quay’ is a great little find and on a sunny day its waterside location has a distinctly Mediterranean vibe. It’s the perfect spot to sit back, relax and watch the boats gently bobbing in and out of the marina.
The Swellies serves delicious, locally sourced produce with a menu that includes hearty breakfasts, light lunches, and tasty snacks, along with fantastic coffee and seriously moreish cakes.
Llanbedrog Beach Bar – Llanbedrog
Find it – Lon Nant-Iago, Llanbedrog, LL53 7TR
Just yards from Llanbedrog’s sweeping, sandy beach, under the shelter of Mynydd Tir Y Cwmwd (Llanbedrog Headland), you’ll find Llanbedrog Beach Bar. Serving breakfast, lunch, drinks, and ice creams during the day, and a tapas menu in the evening, this fab little cafe-restaurant is not to be missed. Enjoy good food, a laid back atmosphere, and stunning views across the water towards Pwllheli, Criccieth, Porthmadog and beyond. The terrace, complete with awnings, heaters and blankets, makes a perfect spot to enjoy the view no matter the weather.
Tavern on the Bay – Red Wharf Bay
Find it – Tavern on the Bay, Red Wharf Bay, Ynys Mon, LL75 8RJ
Anglesey’s ‘Tavern on the Bay’ sits right on the coast, overlooking one of the island’s many beautiful beaches. With its glass-fronted dining area and large raised terrace, this stylish gastro-pub offers panoramic views of the coastline. Don’t miss their live music events, including the popular ‘Piano on the Bay’ nights with the Tavern’s resident pianist.
Sea View – Borth y Gest
Find it – Sea View, Seaview Terrace, Borth y Gest, LL49 9TR
Sea View is located in the charming village of Borth y Gest, just a few minutes’ drive from Porthmadog. This popular cafe-bistro serves delicious breakfasts, lunches and evening meals as well as coffee, cakes and ice creams. Located directly overlooking Borth y Gest’s picturesque bay, Sea View is the perfect spot to enjoy a leisurely brunch while watching the world go by.
