Where to Eat & Drink in Caernarfon

Between visits to the impressive castle, walks along Y Foryd, and boat trips on the Menai Strait, there's no shortage of excellent places to eat in Caernarfon. The historic town is home to a fantastic mix of independent cafés, cosy bistros, and award-winning restaurants, offering something for every occasion. Whether you're looking for fine dining, a relaxed lunch, or a quick bite to eat, here are some of the best places to add to your list.

Ouzo and Olive

Greek mezze restaurant Ouzo and Olive has long been a local favourite - yet somehow it had been years since I last sat down there for a proper meal.

During lockdown, they kept Caernarfon locals happy with their takeaway Gyros. Paired with those scorching spring days, it was probably the closest thing many of us got to a holiday at the time.

We recommend the Tyropita (buttery filo pastry filled with feta and drizzled with honey), Bifteki, Greek dips with warm pitta, a traditional Greek salad, fries, and Bakaliaro (salted cod fritters).

Dining in, you’re instantly transported somewhere a little sunnier: whitewashed walls, simple decor and a relaxed, laid-back atmosphere.

Reubens Coffee Shop

Housed within a beautifully restored historic building, Reubens has breathed new life into one of Caernarfon's characterful spaces. The interiors strike a balance between old and new, with exposed stone walls sitting alongside clean, contemporary design to create a welcoming café that's perfect for lingering over a coffee or enjoying a leisurely brunch. Serving speciality coffee from Heartland, freshly baked pastries and hearty bagels, Reubens focuses on quality without unnecessary fuss.

Swig Smoothies

Magia de Mango smoothie

Every Saturday on Y Maes (Castle Square), Tom pulls up in his Swig van to serve fresh smoothies.

These made to order smoothies are as healthy as you can get, and come with funky names such as Magia de Mango (Mango, banana and orange juice).

Tom set up the Swig business back in 2020 with the help of the fantastic Menter Môn scheme Llwyddo’n Lleol 2050. He noticed there was a gap in the market for a fresh smoothie van within North Wales, which has lead to many event pop-ups.

The fully compostable cups and paper straws teamed with nutritional options make this business a solid staple within North Wales, and I’m proud to have it in Caernarfon.

Follow Swig Smoothies on social media to keep an eye on upcoming pop-ups.

Ty Becws - The Bakehouse

When The Bakehouse opened its doors in 2020, it quickly became a favourite among locals, with queues stretching along the high street as people flocked to sample its ever-changing selection of cakes, pastries, and sweet treats.

Becws Melys

Following the popularity of its takeaway cheesecake boxes during lockdown, Melys has grown into a café that's just as impressive in person. The menu features generous portions of homemade sweet and savoury dishes, from its famous cheesecakes to freshly prepared burritos and café favourites.

It's also worth keeping an eye out for seasonal specials and limited-time menus, including Sunday lunches and afternoon teas, which have become just as popular as the café's signature bakes.

Scoops

Scoops is much more than an artisan ice cream parlour; it's also one of Caernarfon's best spots for Dutch pancakes. The menu features a wide range of sweet and savoury options, from classic toppings to more inventive combinations, such as spinach, bacon, sun-dried tomatoes, and a drizzle of honey.

With its cosy atmosphere and consistently excellent food, it's a popular choice throughout the year. Indoor seating is limited, so booking ahead is highly recommended, particularly during the busy summer months.

The Black Boy Inn

For a cosy atompsohere and good pub grub, make sure you visit The Black Boy Inn. The Black Boy Inn has been part of the Castle walls since the early 16th Century, and the decor is true to its origins.

Like all great pubs, the food portions are fantastically indulgent. Don’t be put off the ovewhelming menu: Everything I’ve eaten has been spot on.

Galeri

Overlooking the Menai Strait, Galeri's café is one of Caernarfon's best spots for a relaxed breakfast, light lunch, or coffee with a view - an underated location in my opinion. The menu focuses on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, while the spacious, modern setting makes it equally popular with families, remote workers, and theatre-goers. Read more about their menu.

Osteria

Small, intimate and full of character, Osteria has earned a loyal following in Caernarfon for its authentic Tuscan-inspired cooking. The carefully curated menu focuses on quality over quantity, with homemade dishes that showcase traditional Italian flavours.

The warm, personal service is just as memorable as the food, with owner and chef Sergio often taking the time to serve guests and chat about the menu. For the full experience, the sharing platter is a must, featuring a generous selection of Italian cured meats, cheeses, fried coccoli bread, seasonal vegetables, and an array of delicious bruschettas.

La Marina Cei

Following the success of La Marina in Y Felinheli (which is no longer with us!), the team brought their popular dining concept to Caernarfon with the opening of La Marina Cei. Located on the Cei Llechi waterfront, the restaurant serves breakfast and speciality coffee by day before transforming into a small plates dining destination in the afternoon and evening.

The menu combines Mediterranean-inspired flavours with creative fusion dishes, making it an excellent spot for sharing with friends or family. With consistently well-executed food, friendly service, and a prime waterfront setting, La Marina Cei has quickly become a welcome addition to Caernarfon's growing food scene and another reason to visit Cei Llechi.

Y Wal

Facebook: Rosie Westland

Tucked away within Caernarfon's historic town walls, Y Wal has earned a reputation as one of the town's standout dining destinations. Blending contemporary Welsh cooking with locally sourced, seasonal ingredients, the menu celebrates the very best produce from North Wales. Expect hearty, presented dishes, a warm and intimate atmosphere, and thoughtful service, making it an ideal choice for everything from a special occasion to a relaxed evening meal.

Other Honourable Mentions

Caffi Maes

Family-friendly breakfast and lunch spot

Four Alls

I recommend stopping here for a pizza and a pint

Bonta Deli

Great place for a light lunch. Make sure to order a bagel or one of the sweet treats. Make sure to have a browse of the local products on offer too.

Morfarch Cafe Bar & Restaurant

Morfarch Cafe Bar & Restaurant is an independent waterfront restaurant overlooking Victoria Dock in Caernarfon, serving a mix of seafood, Welsh, and British-inspired dishes alongside a full bar. A great option if you want something a little different from the traditional town-centre restaurants.