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We've compiled the best of the best in Orkney and Shetland Islands - browse our top choices for the top things to see or do during your stay.
Sitting on rocks on the ebb (or fjara in Faroese) of Brewick Bay, the views from this large wood-and-glass house allow you to look at otters and seals between courses. The menu is very simple: big breakfasts, coffees, and cake—including an array of gluten-free items—soup and huge salads, as well as Shetland mussels or fish-and-chips for lunch. In the evening there's grilled fish, Shetland lamb, or an always-interesting vegetarian option.
Right on the quayside, this casual spot serves tasty calorie-packed cakes. Expect huge slices of lemon drizzle, coffee layer, raspberry cream, and other bakes, as well as fluffy scones. Salads, baked potatoes, and quiches round out the savory side of the menu, while good quality espressos and cappuccinos seal the deal.
Who would believe you could get such good cappuccino at 60 degrees north? In back of the popular Lerwick knitwear shop is a modish, consistently good café that sells filled sponge cakes, lip-smackingly good soups, and, yes, the best coffee on the islands. It's always busy and Shetlanders do like to talk, so be prepared to hang around for a table during lunchtime. Open at 8 am, it's perfect for those coming off the boat.
The unfussy menu in this little restaurant--café features dishes such as soups, quiches, and sandwiches by day or steaks and lasagna by night. It isn't fancy, but it is made and served with great enthusiasm and generosity. You're unlikely to find a scone anywhere else as large as the ones here. There are also five simple but comfortable guest rooms available (from £100 per night).
