Stronsay Fish Mart Cafe Hostel

Whitehall, Stronsay KW17 2AR, United Kingdom
+44 7485 098184
$$$ Cafe
(50 Reviews)

If you find yourself wandering the ruggedly beautiful Scapa Flow and are looking for a charming spot to rest and refuel, look no further than Stronsay Fish Mart Cafe Hostel. Nestled in the tranquil surroundings of Whitehall on Stronsay, this delightful cafe is a true gem that combines the warmth of community with a menu that caters to every palate.

Step inside, and you'll immediately be enveloped by the inviting atmosphere, enhanced by fairy lights that dance softly above open beams. Stronsay Fish Mart Cafe is more than just a spot to grab a bite; it’s a place where you're welcomed like family. The cafe is managed by the friendly duo, Tara and John, whose passion for hospitality is palpable in every meal served. Tara’s approachable demeanor and knack for making customers feel at home shine through in heartfelt reviews from delighted patrons.

The menu offers a delightful array of options to indulge in. Begin your day with a hearty breakfast featuring choices like the Classic Bacon & Egg or the more indulgent Sausage, Egg & Bacon. For a lighter start, dive into a comforting bowl of Soup, paired beautifully with a Sandwich or Roll. Each dish is thoughtfully prepared with fresh ingredients, ensuring that every mouthful bursts with flavor and satisfaction. On chillier days, nothing beats their famous Friday Fish and Chips, loved by locals and visitors alike for its flaky fish and perfectly crispy batter. Add on enticing Sides like Sweet Potato Fries or a generous helping of Coleslaw to round out your meal!

And let’s not forget dessert—Tara and John's homemade cakes are a highlight you simply must experience. They perfectly complement a steaming cup of coffee, providing a sweet finish to your meal while you gaze out the window at the captivating local views.

The heartfelt reviews speak volumes about the genuine experiences customers have enjoyed here. J. Burrows shared how the couple felt "very welcome" and praised the special vegetarian dish prepared just for them, while Kizzy Donnelly couldn't help but rave about Tara’s warmth and the cafe's calming atmosphere. Whether dropping in for a quick coffee after a ferry ride or settling down for a leisurely lunch, Stronsay Fish Mart Cafe Hostel ensures your experience is memorable.

Beyond just coffee and cakes, the cafe serves as a hub of the Stronsay community, where local stories are shared and friendships are formed. As Alasdair Lowe aptly put it, it’s a lovely cafe filled with friendly faces and delicious food, a place you’ll be glad to discover right off the ferry.

So the next time you're on Stronsay, make sure to stop by Stronsay Fish Mart Cafe Hostel. With a cozy atmosphere, a diverse menu, and a welcoming spirit that embodies the best of island life, it’s a culinary haven awaits you. Come for the food; stay for the memories.

Service options
Takeaway
Dine-in
Delivery
Highlights
Great coffee
Great tea selection
Popular for
Breakfast
Lunch
Solo dining
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Wheelchair-accessible seating
Offerings
Coffee
Free water refills
Prepared foods
Quick bite
Dining options
Breakfast
Brunch
Lunch
Catering
Dessert
Seating
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Crowd
Family friendly
Groups
Tourists
Planning
Accepts reservations
Payments
Cash only
Children
Good for kids
Kids' menu
Parking
Free of charge street parking
50 Reviews
J Burrows

13 Sep 2025

We spent a week on Stronsay in June and found it a beautiful place to stay. We visited the Fish Mart Cafe, the day after we arrived and each day it was open. We were made to feel very welcome and enjoyed the lunches; John had prepared a vegie dish specially for us. Coffees and lovely cakes, all very good value. We appreciated the information and advice given by John and Tara which helped us make the most of our time on the island and which added to our 'island experience'. We thought The Fish Mart was a valuable resource for island visitors, as well as residents. Jo and Jon.

Kizzy Donnelly

05 Sep 2025

Absolutely loved this place!!! Tara, the lady who runs it, is just lovely. She's friendly and approachable and was quick with recommendations for food. The menu has something for everyone, and they have a great selection of hot food, which is needed on blustery Stronsay. Highchairs for little ones are available, and the atmosphere is very calm. Faity lights adorn the open beams above, and the sky lights drench the room with sunlight. The food was well priced, and the plates were full. Fresh cakes and bakes were available and changed daily. Toilet facilities also included a shower! Wheel chair accessible with a ramp out front and also wide doors for entry. There were also handmade items for sale for souvenirs from a gentleman who lives on the island and also beautiful prints from local artists on the island.

Dalia Lowe

30 Aug 2025

We came to Stronsay for a day trip and went to the cafe for breakfast right off the ferry. It was so good that we returned there for lunch too. Tara and her family gave us a very warm welcome and served delicious freshly made food that set us up for a lovely day on the island. We will be back for a longer holiday and will be staying in their hostel next time! Dalia, James, Simon and Julian

Alasdair Lowe

30 Aug 2025

Lovely cafe, good lunch food and brilliant home made cakes. The owner was very friendly and gave us recommendations for our day on the island. Recommend to anyone getting off the ferry!

Ian Hughes

28 Aug 2025

We used the cafe several times on our trip to Stronsay and each time we had good food and a very warm welcome. The Friday fish and chips were particularly good and clearly appreciated by the locals who were arriving to pick them up constantly while we were there. We recommend this cafe. Thank you Tara and John for looking after us.

Lyndsy Duet

06 Jul 2025

Adorable cafe with delicious food and friendly staff. After following the cafe for months online to prepare to visit, I was delighted that it was even better than anticipated.

Alette Kattenberg

28 Jun 2025

We spent a few days on Stronsay and were lucky enough to get a room for the night in the hostel. It is a great home away from home, exceptionally clean and a very well equipped kitchen. We had lunch and breakfast in the cafe next door too, great hospitality from Tara and John. We are hoping to be back soon!

Philippa Coleman

16 Jun 2025

A very warm, friendly welcome and a delicious breakfast, which were much appreciated on my visit in October. The hostel looks very comfortable. I enjoyed looking at the view from the cafe window and at the books of local pictures. My take away sandwich and cake were also delicious.

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