The Waterfront Inn in Isle of Wight

The only place to wine and dine on Shanklin seafront ( or just enjoy a beer and a view 😁) What's not to love about this place 😎

Called in (no reservation) having looked online for gluten-free options in Shanklin. Warm welcome received from staff. Lovely location overlooking the sea. Very clean and nice interior. Good choices on the menu. I had the ribs, which were very good. My wife had the gluten free pizza which was excellent also. Thanks for a great meal.

We were booked at a different hotel,but the food was awful,so we walked a little further along the esplanade and found this lovely BandB,we ate here for our evening meal for our remaining stay at Shanklin. The staff were amazing ,very friendly and they couldn't have been more helpful,the food was delicious and reasonably priced . So if you travel by car,consider booking a room at the Waterfront inn ,Shanklin ,lovely people and lovely place,dietary needs catered for and dog friendly,well done all at the Waterfront Inn .

Didn't stay at this accomodation. But went the days we were there for food and it was fantastic well worth it

Service was ok and food is average I not recommend this place again.

I am pure vegetarian and I stop here to eat plain fries and I ask to staff can I eat my sandwich as well she said yes than after I just start to eat and manger here and said u don’t eat here first they allow and than after said no not kind and respected staff or manager here.

I am pure vegetarian and I choose waterfront in for my lunch place. I asked staff permission to have my home made meal at waterfront in, she said yes you can have your food until you order something. I order plain fries. I just opened my food and manager came and told us stopped. Firstly I’m not satisfied with service. Secondly they did not trained staff member at waterfront in.

Had a meal with my too girls , Had mac and cheese , portion size was child size and did not use macaroni pasta , Will not bother with the place again , steamer next door so much better!!!!!!

Didn't stay but had lunch. A lovely place with a great view.

We had dinner here, such a lovely spot with the most incredible view! We were lucky enough to enjoy seeing the supermoon from where we were sat. Not to mention the brilliant service and great food and drink options, including gluten free pizza base available!

Quick service, friendly staff and great food.

One of the places we stayed on the IOW. Shanklin esplanade is a brilliant place, we really lucked out with the Waterfront Inn. The staff were all great- welcoming, helpful [particularly with the parking info] and professional in their service. Food was all hot, well prepared/ presented and tasty at a reasonable price. We had B&B so breakfasts were included- mine was prepared exactly as requested and so was the evening meals. Especially the mussels. would definitely stay/ eat again. A chair in the room would have helped also extra sockets but all else was good

The Waterfront never disappoints for breakfast. The quality of the bacon and sausage is second to none, the food is always nicely presented and the service friendly and prompt. With bonus of refillable coffee we escaped an hour of Tuesday morning rain with a tasty breakfast, two hopeful dogs and good coffee on their lovely terrace. So much effort has been put in to the outdoor space and the inside of the pub is modern and bright and obviously very well cared for. Our favourite spot for breakfast looking out to sea in Shanklin

Awesome location, great food and great service too. We stopped there for a meal tonight at sunset and glad we did. A special shout out to Mike for his stand out Service and interaction.

I last reviewed the Waterfront last September. I normally visit several times a year, but some frustrating circumstances has meant I haven’t got to Shanklin since then. I really like the Waterfront, but I still have some concerns about how the table service works in practice. I don’t think it was the case last year that that a customer was invited to take a table and wait for service, but rather a staff member would meet and greet? On two visits this week, once inside and once outside, after waiting for 5-10 x mins I had to go in to find someone. This was also the case with another couple on the second occasion I visited. Staff were really apologetic and very attentive once they realised, but I just wonder if the policy of a customer taking a table and perhaps not being noticed needs a review and meet and greet re-introduced? Beer was great (your Fuggle De Dum is top notch), your food quite good and your staff very good too. One thing I did note later in the evening (in the last half hour before closing) was when a couple of customers who would appear to be local “regulars” were served directly at the bar without going to a table first. This is a bit of a contradiction if some are allowed bar service but others aren’t.

Nice sand and gravel beach with amusement arcades and restaurants along the sea front.

Good service. good food, amazing ocean view, relaxed atmosphere and nice cocktails. Have popped in a couple of times when we visit the I.O.W.

Great vegan breakfast with excellent coffee and friendly, helpful staff. The scrambled tofu was a nice alternative to eggs or mushrooms.

A lovely meal in here this evening, The portions were ideal . Full of flavour and very reasonable for what you got. Good value wine as well. Stunning views as it got dark and its dog friendly.

We were staying up the road, and after spending all week travelling around the island, we decided to do a day in Shanklin. We stopped in here for our breakfast and everything was spot on. Service was fab, the food was hot and fresh, and the views were lovely. Such a joyful start to the day. My boy loved his breakfast and even asked our waitress to give his compliments to the chef (he's only 10 and gets a bit excited 🤣😁). We're back on the island in 3 weeks and we'll definitely be coming back, probably for an evening meal this time. Thank you guys

Very good location and friendly staff. Shame about the quality of the food and the time it took to come to the table. A really disappointing meal!

Excellent service, friendly staff , amazing food , and what a wonderful view. Couldn’t be a better place to sit in the sun ☀️ and enjoy a beer 🍻

We went to Shanklin for a day trip while in the Isle of Wight. The food was lovely & the staff very friendly. Great views of the sea aswell. Lovely place to have a drink & some food

Nice atmosphere on a pleasant sunny evening, sea views are great, Sunday roast was lovely too. It was busy but still gave great service

Staff and location great, food very average , no better than a witherspoon food wise

Great view over the beach and sea with a bottle of local Ale

LOVE IT......group of 14 of us had a relaxed and great time. Happy hour between 4&6pm but even without that....Fosters £3.50 a pint. No bookings taken to first come first....table service but you may need to get noticed first.

Amazing views right on the seafront. Staff were very attentive and helpful. Good cocktails and pizza, would recommend!

Stayed for Isle of Wight festival, far away from the commotion and right by the seafront with excellent staff and brilliant breakfast! Room was totally fine with decent amenities - though the shower might be a little cramped for heavier build! Massive ups to the staff for being super graceful and adding to the experience with care and positivity during our first time on the island and as festival goers :)

We stopped for dinner. Service was excellent and the food passable. Lovely location overlooking the sea and outside tables for a warm evening. My Mohito was very acceptable.

Me and my dear friends were enjoying our pleasant time in sunny Shanklin and decided to stop for a bite to eat. We chose the Waterfront Inn for its picturesque waterfront and seaside views. We were greeted on welcome and shown to our waterfront table by a lovely man “what a lovely man” we said!. That’s when it ALL started. Mark came to the table to take our drinks order, which he got correct (THANK GOD!). He started on the right side of the table where my friends ordered a sausage and mash and the scampi and chips respectively. Another of my friends ordered a lasagne, which went off without a hitch. I then ordered the cod and chips, however, I changed my mind and asked to change this to a lasagne. Mark acknowledged this change from cod and chips to LASAGNE, and tapped it into the ever-present electronic device which appears as if surgically attached to his hand. Roughly 15 minutes later a server delivered the sausage and mash alongside the scampi and chips (comforting if somewhat tasteless). Then, what occurs but a server bringing us TWO cod and chips!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! We sat in a state of shock at the incredible mental gymnastics that must have taken place in Mark’s head as to reach the conclusion that we wanted not just one, but TWO cod and chips! Eventually, we called Mark over where we explained politely that we had clearly ordered two lasagnes. Mark then, in his sassy manner, attempted to gaslight us into believing we ordered these unwanted dinners by simply pointing at the order form on his toy iPad. (No Mark…because you pushed the cod and chips button doesn’t mean we asked for it). He offered us no solution nor compensation and left the conversation hastily without apology. We were left eating mouthfuls of surprise batter and dry chips in a soured mood. Five minutes after Mark handed us whatever on earth he felt like giving us we see him in his own clothes drinking a beer! I’m beginning to wonder if he even worked there at all!! AVOID

Food is amazing and very well priced with friendly staff

We were bought a weekend here as a present. The staff were all absolutely lovely, made us feel very welcome. Great location in front of the beach. The food in the restaurant was great too!

Perfect location direct access to the beach. Hotel staff very friendly. Room good size although needing a little upgrading to bathroom. Dog friendly so ideal for us. Will revisit.

Just had 3 lovely Sunday roast meals , great portions and nice and hot. Highly recommend.

We're here for dinner. The service was great! The food was served very quickly, and each one was very delicious, the staff was very humorous and the atmosphere was great

Visited on 2 consecutive evenings and ate from the bar menu. The food was excellent and all the staff friendly welcoming and efficient. Will most certainly revisit when next on the Island. Thank you.

Great location and Polite staff.

Lovely day for lunch overlooking the sea. Nice ceasar salad.

Had a lovely experience with my family, Vincent was amazing and very friendly. Great food..coming back 👏

Really good atmosphere. We were actually staying in a hotel nearby but if we come back to visit the Isle of Wight again we have decided that this is definitely where we are going to stay. The staff were really friendly, the young lady that spoke to us about the rooms was really helpful and went into detail about the layout etc which ievreally helpful when you are a family of 3. It's in a really good location, central and beach front.

The staff and location were absolutely lovely, couldn’t fault. Food was average at best. Starters were ‘potted shrimp’ and nachos. Underwhelming unfortunately. Nachos came on a small plate, with what was clearly brought in guacamole (if you can call it that), similar to the ‘salsa’, and ‘cheese’. Not very nice at all. The potted shrimp I had in my minds eye would be a mini bucket of fresh prawns…a ramekin of some weird, fatty, clearly got right out the fridge thing was served, tiny shrimp, clearly frozen, in a pink, coagulated (I’d like to say sauce but it was hard) thing. Not nice at all. Main courses I had Moulles marinare…passable I would say. Sauce was over creamed. I ate half. My girlfriend had pasta pesto which looked and tasted great. Overall a disappointing experience that I didn’t appreciate paying over £50 for. I have worked in the trade and don’t like leaving a bad review but…. Looking at food going out to other tables, the roast dinner looked great and the pie looked amazing! I just didn’t make the right choice I guess.

Went for Sunday lunch, nice food, very accommodating for us nice beer.

Stopped off for lunch and discovered the newly opened Darwin’s bistro boasting a more sophisticated menu that the usual deep fried pub fare. Enjoyed fresh scallops and chicken Cacciatore. The wines by the glass were well above average compared to most pubs. The service was welcoming and friendly from the French owner and locally born waitress. The view…. well it’s Shanklin! Darwin’s is a gem on the east coast of the island.

Went out on Thursday night and came across the weekly quiz. An enjoyable evening was had by one and all, compared by Mike Smith and assisted by Liam and Vince who looked after our gastronomic needs. Needless to say the food was first class and we certainly intend to return next time we are in town. Well done, keep up the good work..

Stopped by here for lunch while visiting IoW and can't recommend it enough. Superb, friendly service, and the food was fantastic - as well as excellent value! Plenty of options for everyone (including out fussy kids) and we had a gorgeous view of the sea. Highly recommended!

Unfortunately we did not enjoy our meal. The service was good but the food was not of a good enough standard. The dessert was poor quality and microwaved.

Great food service and atmosphere. Would recommend to anyone.

Good service and nice decor. Nice choice of food on the menu. Great views of the beach. Reasonable prices. Toilets were clean.

Nice food, good beer, great location..

Stayed here in April for 5 nights and was an amazing place to stay, Rooms were lovely with an unbeatable sea view to watch the sunrise in the mornings! The food was amazing in the bar as well and all at a reasonable price. Breakfast was great with good choice of items. Lovely cosy vibe to the hotel and would highly recommend

Just enjoyed a lovely Sunday roast, great food, great price and great atmosphere, if we lived on the Island, this would be a regular Sunday visit!

Enjoyed a delicious vegan afternoon tea at the Waterfront Inn Shanklin this afternoon with stunning sea views. It was insanely good- we felt very spoilt! The staff are so friendly, attentive and helpful lifting our pram up the steps etc. They also took a family photo for us by their beautifully decorated tree 🎄 It was so reasonably priced £9.50 pp with free tea top ups plus no extra expense for plant milk👍💚🌱 5*

Terrible service from a lady working there. Was very rude to my family who spent a lot of money there. She didnt acknowledge them after they were short changed and then was also rude to us when taking our order, she definitely should not be working with customers.The food was also terrible, even the chips were not cooked well. In fact the worst we ha e ever tasted. There was a young man who was there who was polite but bh that time the mood had already been ruined and had to go next door to the Steamers Inn to cheer everyone up. As that place is very nice but thought to try the waterfront Inn as a change. Will definitely not be coming back!

Great location to relax and enjoy the seafront excellent cocktails. Good food menu. Attentive service.

Popped in for lunch while out exploring the island and me and my husband shared a fabulous seafood platter! It didn't look like much but was plenty for 2 to share. Nice selection of sandwiches and jackets potatoes also.

We stayed in the Waterfront Inn in for a few days - end of October into early November, just before they shut for the winter. The location is amazing - on the sea front with views out over the ocean and (weather permitting) an opportunity to see the sunrise, which we did - but only on the day we were heading home! When we arrived, the person at the front desk seemed uncertain as to how to assist, especially with regard to parking which we discovered is best managed via the daily permit. We didn't know about this option until the the young person eventually called a manager who explained it all. It would have been helpful to know about this in advance as we would have been able to organise it ahead of time and save a bit of hassle. The permit covers parking on most of the Island (some car parks are excluded so always check), so is good value if one is planning to explore. The room was pleasant, but very cold and all the windows were ajar which didn't help. That said, when we mentioned we felt cold, the heating was turned up and a fan heater provided, which made a big difference overall. The breakfast menu was varied enough for a short stay with gluten free options. Do read the ingredients carefully as it is easy to get caught out if you have a range of food issues. The staff were extremely helpful in this regard. They were less helpful with regard to evening fare. We were out for most of the day and it was only when we got back that we learned the kitchen closed at 8pm. Again, this would have been useful information ahead of time. We managed just one evening meal at the Waterfront Inn, which was OK. The remainder of our stay we ate elsewhere as we had full days and were not back in time for the early kitchen closure. It would have been easier to have been able to order food where we were staying, though, especially as Storm Ciaran was playing havoc with the weather as it drew closer. There was a leak in the shower. This was managed quickly with courtesy and which we both appreciated. We were assured that the problem would be repaired while the Inn was closed for the winter. Probably a good place to stay in the high season. During our stay it became clear that the imminent winter closure meant staff and services were winding down, despite there still being paying guests.

Just popped in for a drink, great location on the sea front, drinks and service was excellent...Will definitely be back for food...😀 2nd visit today, great cheesy chips and a pint of Guinness..Also Awesome service from our waitress Libby..

Went to watch the rugby world cup final. Great position of Tvs and small bar area made it a much more intimate feel. The staff were really attentive, keeping the drinks flowing. The selection is good with a bit of everything to please everyone. The place is really well kept, clean and tidy. The Aussie barman is great and we had a good laugh with him. We unfortunately didn't get time to try the food, but many people were eating, and the food smelt gorgeous, we will have to try next time. A brilliant find and will be back soon. Highly recommend a vist.

I still can't fully understand the experience today for what should have been a very pleasant family lunch for 4. We have eaten here many times before, but I believe new ownership and policies may be the issue. Two of our group ordered the Bacon, Cranberry and Brie Panini. Both, when brought to the table had Bacon plus Cranberry but only a small thin slice of melted Brie just at one end of the Panini. We asked if we could have Brie to at least cover the length of the Panini, as the Bacon and Cranberry did, and it was meant to be a Bacon, Cranberry and Brie Panini. The waiting staff took the dishes away but returned to say that they could not, as the Manager had stated "that each dish was carefully costed and that each had the specified amount of brie in it" we were somewhat taken back and asked again, surely they could simply add a couple more slices of brie to the Panini. The answer was "no". I have never had this before, a cold reference to their costing and no thought for the customer or the meal being sold as a Bacon, Cranberry and Brie Panini. The request was a very reasonable one and requested very politely. The server was visibly embarrassed and apologised numerous times. So, we cancelled the Paninis, which I assume we're binned and wasted. So instead of making good by simply adding a basic and advertised ingredient the meals we're wasted, they lost the revenue (which was a lot more than a couple of slices of brie) and now we won't go back in the future (loosing even more revenue). Plus, I had to write this Negative review (which I hate to do). Our family lunch was not what we wanted. The waiting staff were fine, it was not their fault. But not sure which business school or customer service course the manager has attended. The setting is nice, the drinks were nice. This was so unnecessary. So very disappointing.

We turned up at the Waterfront Inn on Sunday with 10 people and a dog asking for a table. The staff were extremely accommodating and did everything they could to seat us. The spot was perfect and then the service and food was fabulous. So impressed some of us went back the next morning for breakfast and the same thing, extremely nice, friendly and helpful staff and the food was fabulous. In contrast we had asked the Steamer Inn first and the staff were exceptionally rude.

Absolutely loved it here, great staff, great food, would love to come back here again. Felt really warm and comfortable in the restaurant. 😊

The Waterfront Inn is perfectly situated on Shanklin seafront, but we didn't enjoy our meals my wife had the Beef curry which had very little beef in the curry, I had the Mushroom Risotto which was served warm not to my liking. the best part was the sticky toffee pudding, the bill came to £54.00 we stayed in Shanklin for a week but didn't want to return to the Waterfront Inn.

We stopped here for early lunch today. I had the cod and chips and my dad had the smoked salmon on salmon on bruschetta. The food was lovely, batter wasn’t greasy and the chips were lovely. Compliments from my dad on his meal too. As a bonus I also had a sex on the beach cocktail which was delicious.

Lovely Turkey roast dinner, but unfortunately not very hot at all.. Would go back, but next time if it's not hot will let them know no... Sadly we were in a rush though so didn't say . Fab view whilst eating and staff were really nice.

If you want a burger in a sports bar bierkeller then this is the place. Not worried about service? Then they've got it covered. When you order are you fed up with the predictability of getting what you asked for? Maybe prefer as lucky dip? So much on offer here for the undiscerning.

The Waterfront Inn and The Steamer Inn are next door to each other on the Shanklin esplanade. Both have lovely views to the sea and at first appearance seem similar but during our stay in Shanklin we preferred the Waterfront and so went back there a few times. Apart from my crab starter one day (most of the crab seemed to have gone missing) we found the food tasty, good sized portions and well cooked. The “happy hour” before 7pm was a nice gesture to get 2 glasses of wine for the price of one. The two chaps who took our orders were polite, friendly and efficient and made us feel welcome. But perhaps some of the girl waiting staff might need a little more training, although they were also polite. It was nearing the end of the season when I expect things were not so busy but I am surprised at some of the negative comments I have reads here. They don’t reflect our experience. We would be happy to return when next in Shanklin.

Right across the sea. Room is nice and clean. Love their food. The breakfast is also one of the best. Also love their sea food platter. So fresh and tasty. We had a pleasant stay there.

Fantastic place .friendly excellent meals .clean rooms value for money. Going back for Christmas. Manageress so kind and friendly

Food was amazing, staff were brilliant, nothing was too much trouble. We'll definitely go again.

Poor and well below average fish and chips probaly pollock not cod as avertised soggy batter and bot bothered service

Good food with great views out to sea

Went here for tea I had pizza was ok. But clearly a shop bought one warmed up one my partner had meatballs said was nice but very basic food staff were very nice

They have recently undated their menu and it is great to see that they have some simple dishes on the menu at truly affordable prices. They are obviously going for bums on seats and I think it’s working. Staff are always pleasant and they’ve kept table service since lockdown which makes life easier.

Only here 2 days ate here 1st day came back 2nd as enjoyed it so much excellent food and service at great price and location thanks guys

Set on the seafront with stunning views this restaurant could have just relied on that BUT instead it has awesome food, Friendly service and is dog friendly. The restaurant is clean despite constantly being busy. Well done, You guys.

Great food right on there front. Sat outside on a Fabulous Saturday evening 😎

Oh dear breaks my heart to see it so bad. We ordered this to start and my wife mussels for main we ordered chicken burger and scampi. What am I meant to say first everything came out at one. Brie and cheese do not go with scamp. Not really mussels with chicken burger. We went back second time only ordered main in case. Chips were terrible for my wife batter of inside of fish soggy. Will now wait a long while before returning to our once favourite spot. Shame we are very local and used to love it. what happened.

I have visited the Waterfront since 2006 (I still have my loyalty card which I am delighted is still accepted 😀) and like it very much. Now I can understand the legal requirements of a couple of years ago about “Table Service” but now beyond the pandemic, why is it still the case? I know it appears a number of other establishments along the Esplanade seem to practice a similar set up, but it is absolutely chaotic with people waiting for a long time, sometimes appearing to be forgotten etc. The Waterfront is a great establishment which I have a great deal of time for. By all means keep the table service for food, but make it bar service for drinks again please?

Good location, good service and good food.

Beautiful setting on the waterfront. Very hardworking and attentive staff. Menus shabby, and tables a bit sticky but lovely food at reasonable prices (we had BBQ pizza and 3 bean chilli salad). Great cocktails!

Beautiful place with food and prices to match 👌

Gorgeous setting but the food is a bit basic especially the bolognese it is worse than school food! the fish was nice though. Service friendly but not attentive. The kids food here and over the entire island, is just junk food which makes visiting the...

Very friendly and helpful staff. Prompt service. Food was very nice and served without delay. Pleasant surroundings.

Had a weeks holiday with family found this inn on the 1st night and used it every night after, what a Fantastic place. Staff were amazing gets really busy but they work so hard. Definitely would go back when we go back to the island

Great location especially on a nice sunny afternoon. We stopped of here for a few beers and a sandwich my partner had Prawn and I had crab, both were well presented and tasty. The service was good and this is a lovely place in front...

Ordered dinner and chips came out 2 minutes later. We sent them back and said we wanted them with our dinner. The waitress looked annoyed. Dinner was ok. We had to ask/approach them and ask for dessert to which there reply was it’s too late...

We popped in for lunch but both had main meals. We were seated immediately outside to our preference, the staff were attentive and efficient and we were served quickly. The food arrived promptly and was of a good standard. We enjoyed the view whilst having...

Vince and his business partner, and wonderful staff run a delightful Inn bang on the Esplanade. This Inn never fails to delight from the stylishly designed and furnished rooms, to the terrific, satisfying all day food, to the well stocked bar, coffee and delightful team...

Went in for lunch. Service was poor, had to ask for menus ages after sitting down on terrace as table had nothing on it. Moved inside as weather wet and was cold. The waitress took our order but did use the ipad she was holding...

I ordered spaghetti bolognaise which was very watery and my partner had the crab. When that came out it was in a clams shell and that was very watery too. Nice setting as you can look out onto the beach.

Sullen, disinterested staff didn't give a good impression at all. When we saw one of them rolling her eyes to another about a customer who was taking too long to get to a table, we knew we didn't want to stay and eat, so left...

Fantastic location and food the staff was pleasant and was happy to put tables together for our family unlike the steamer inn next door we ordered sea food platters and was very impressed food was spot on with a great selection on drinks at the...

We had gone to Shanklin whilst on holiday in the Isle of Wight, it was my birthday so we decided to eat out. After looking ay a number restaurant menus both online and onsite we decided on the Waterfront as it looked like it had...

Een heerlijke plek vlakbij het kleine strand van Shanklin. Moeilijk om een plaats te bemachtigen en alle eten en drinken...

Stayed here for 2 nights whilst cycling round IOW. Room - brilliant. Food - brilliant. Location - brilliant. Every single member of staff - whatever better than brilliant is. Nothing too much trouble, food excellent and great value and overall great atmosphere. Really impressed -...

We went quite late in the evening & unfortunately the attitude of the staff was quite diffident. However, they took our order & the food was served promptly. It was average food, nothing special, but we still enjoyed it.

If my only complaint was expensive drinks I’d be a happy man. The food was not too expensive but didn’t come close to enjoyable. The Fish and Chips was a platter full of cheap peas and chips with a tiny fish on top. The ‘scampi’...

Staff very friendly , food came in 30 mins , my steak pie and veg etc was excellent , all other 3 meals were really good as well , reasonable price nice pub inside . I would recommend this restaurant.

Everywhere was very busy the evening we visited the seafront and there was what looked like a small queue at the top of the stairway. However this just disappeared...and we were all seated as if by magic and, considering how busy they were, the service...