Orkney Food & Drink: A Taste of the Islands

Discover guides and stories about Orkney Food & Drink in the Orkney Islands

Prepare your taste buds for an Orcadian journey! Orkney's pristine environment, rich seas, and fertile land yield exceptional produce, celebrated by a passionate community of farmers, fishermen, and artisans. This guide explores the unique flavours of the islands, from world-class seafood and distinctive cheeses to traditional baking and renowned spirits. Discover where to sample local delicacies, learn about sustainable practices, and find inspiration for your culinary adventures. Whether you're dining out in Kirkwall or seeking treats to take home, Orkney offers a delicious experience rooted in heritage and quality. Explore related experiences in our Arts, Crafts & Culture section.

Latest Articles in Orkney Food & Drink

Orkney Food & Drink

Highland Park Distillery Tours: Orkney Visitor Guide

August 19, 2026

Highland Park distillery tours in Orkney: the six experiences, their durations, booking and age rules, and the uphill walk from Kirkwall town centre.

Orkney Food & Drink

Orkney Beer & Brewery Guide: Ales, Tours & Best Pubs

July 20, 2026

Orkney's craft beer scene: Orkney Brewery and Swannay Brewery tours, core ales like Orkney Gold and Dark Island, and the best pubs to drink them.

Orkney Food & Drink

Orkney Gin & Craft Spirits Guide

July 19, 2026

Discover Orkney's craft spirits scene: three gin distilleries, Scotland's first akvavit, and award-winning rum. A guide to tours, tastings, and where to buy.

Orkney Food & Drink

A Taste of Orkney: Local Specialities & Where to Buy

June 24, 2026

Discover Orkney's best local food: PGI cheddar, Grimbister farmhouse cheese, Argo's fudge, Craft Vinegar and creel-caught crab — plus where to buy it all.

Orkney Food & Drink

Best Restaurants in Orkney: Where to Eat & Drink

June 7, 2026

The best places to eat in Orkney — top restaurants, cosy pubs and cafés across Kirkwall, Stromness and the isles. Plan where to eat on your trip.

Orkney Food & Drink

Orkney Cheese Trail: Grimbister, Cheddar & Westray Wife

May 23, 2025

Orkney’s cheese producers — Grimbister farmhouse, Orkney Extra Mature Cheddar, Westray Wife and Burnside — with tasting notes, pairings and where to buy.

Orkney Food & Drink

Orkney Bere Barley: History, Uses & Bere Bannocks

May 15, 2025

Discover Orkney Bere Barley, an ancient grain with a rich history. Learn about its cultivation at Barony Mill, uses in bannocks, beer, whisky, and where to try it.

Orkney Food & Drink

Orkney Seafood Restaurants: Where to Eat the Local Catch

May 5, 2025

The best seafood in Orkney: where to eat fresh lobster, hand-dived scallops and brown crab, verified open restaurants in Kirkwall, Stromness and St Margaret’s Hope, seasons, and buying direct.

Orkney Food & Drink

Orkney Farm Shops & Local Producers: 2026 Guide

April 5, 2025

Where to buy Orkney cheese, smoked salmon, beremeal and whisky direct — the best farm shops, delis and producer tours, with hours and locations.

Orkney Food & Drink

Orkney Whisky Trail 2026: Highland Park & Scapa

April 3, 2025

Your guide to the Orkney whisky trail: Highland Park, Scapa and Deerness distillery tours, tastings, the smuggler story and where to stay near them.

What are some unique Orkney foods I should try?

Orkney boasts several unique specialties! Don't miss the incredibly fresh seafood, especially hand-dived scallops and creel-caught crab and lobster. Try locally handmade Orkney fudge, or the creamy Orkney Ice Cream. Sample Grimbister Farm Cheese, often served fried, and look out for North Ronaldsay lamb, known for its unique flavour from sheep grazing on seaweed. For a local takeaway experience, try a "Pattie Supper" – spiced mince and potato in batter.

Where can I buy local Orkney produce?

You can find excellent local produce across the islands. In Kirkwall, visit Jollys of Orkney for smoked fish and meats, or The Brig Larder deli for cheeses, oatcakes, and other specialties. Many farm shops offer seasonal goods directly. Look out for local brands in supermarkets too. For fresh seafood, you can sometimes buy directly at the harbours in Kirkwall and Stromness, and seasonal seafood shacks come and go — ask locally for what is trading when you visit.

Are there food or drink tours available in Orkney?

Yes! Several operators offer tours focused on Orkney's culinary heritage. You can visit world-famous whisky distilleries like Highland Park and Scapa for tours and tastings. Local breweries also welcome visitors. Some guided tours combine historical sites like the Barony Mills (for traditional beremeal) with food experiences, offering a fantastic way to taste and learn. Check our Local Attractions guide for distillery locations.

What makes Orkney's food and drink sustainable?

Sustainability is a core principle. Many producers prioritize local sourcing and traditional methods. Fishing practices often focus on low-impact methods like creel-catching and hand-diving. Organisations like Orkney Food & Drink actively promote collaboration and responsible practices among members. The islands' commitment aligns with Scotland's wider "Good Food Nation" goals, aiming for quality food that benefits both the environment and the community.

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Orkney Food & Drink: A Taste of the Islands

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are some unique Orkney foods I should try?

Where can I buy local Orkney produce?

Are there food or drink tours available in Orkney?

What makes Orkney's food and drink sustainable?

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