Where to Eat: The Best restaurants and cafes in Caernarfon

In between visiting the impressive castle, walking along Y Foryd, and sailing along the Menai Strait, Caernarfon hosts many top quality places to eat.

I may be biased as I live in Caernarfon, but I do believe we’re spoiled for choice in this historic town.

Here are a list of some of my personal favourite places to eat - Whether you’re looking for fine dining or a snack: I’ve got you covered.

Sheeps and Leeks

Not that I have an official ‘favourite places to eat’ list, but I’d rate Sheeps and Leeks as one of the best places to go in Caernarfon. And it’s surprisingly great value for money.

Sheeps And Leeks offer a set tasting menu of either 10 courses (weekend), or 7 courses (mid-week), starting from £55. The menus are put together by a team of chefs fronted by Head Chef and owner Paul Hearn. The menus are updated on a regular basis and support local and homegrown ingredients more than any other restaurant in Caernarfon I’m aware of.

If you have something to celebrate or simply want to treat yo’self, book online.

Swig Smoothies

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 during lockdown, it was genuinely one of the highlights of the year for many locals. There were queues along the highstreet desperate to try from the enormous selection of cakes and bakes.

It’s hard to resist the 4 for £6 cake deal (pictured above), so I recommend visiting with a friend to share. Or to keep for yourself, I won’t judge.

Becws Melys

One of the newest additions to Caernarfon is Becws Melys.

Based on the Melys Cheesecake takeaway boxes I ordered over lockdown, this cafe is everything I hoped it would be. Hearty portions of sweet and savoury food, such as their famous cheesecakes, and homemade burritos.

Watch out for new additions to the menu, such as Sunday lunches and afternoon teas.

Read more about Becws Melys in my ‘New For 2022’ post here.

Ouzo and Olive

The Greek restaurant Ouzo and Olive is a firm favourite with the locals. The restaurant serves a fantastically hearty selection of authentic Greek Meze, served by the most pleasant staff.

From time to time Ouzo and Olive also serve takeaway Gyros. On a warm day, if you squint slightly you could be transported to Greece.

The restaurant inside appears to be quite basic, but the focus is all on the food in my opinion.

Jones Pizza - Pip Ups, Yr Alex

One of the biggest debates in our household is which local pizzeria is the best. In my eyes, Jones Pizza Co. is number one.

The snazzy mobile pizzeria are based in Caernarfon and serve Neapolitan style pizzas using the freshest ingredients and local produce.

As the summer is approaching, they base themselves outside Yr Alex pub most Friday and Saturday evenings, alongside their restaurant in Bangor. However, do keep an eye on their social media for updates.

Scoops

One of my favourite indoor cafes in Caernarfon is Scoops. As well as a artican ice cream parlour (read my ice cream guide here), Scoops is also widely known for their delicious Dutch pancakes.

The pancakes can be served with various sweet and savoury options, including the one pictured above: Spinach, bacon and sundried tomatoes with honey. Drool.

Indoor seating is limited, so I highly recommend reserving a table during the 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.

Osteria

The tiny Tusacan themed restaurant Osteria had been recommeneded by so many locals, and when I eventually visited I could see why. It is a gem of an eatery with a well crafted select menu.

The friendly and personal service is a highlight (especially when chef and owner Sergio himself comes up to serve the dishes and to have a chat), and the homecooked Italian food is a delight.

I highly recommend ordering a platter to share between two. This includes a selection of Italian cured meats, cheeses, fried ‘coccoli’ bread, vegetabls and a fantastic selection of bruschettas.

La Marina Cei

After the success of La Marina in Y Felinheli, it only seemed natural for the team to open up a second restaurant.

La Marina Cei is situated in Cei Llechi, and offers small plates fusion food in the afternoon and evenings, alongside breakfasts and hot drinks during the day.

I was very impressed with our first visit to the Cei restauraunt - every dish was as good as the last, and the service was speedy.

This is a great addition to Caernarfon, and I hope it encourages more restaurants to open Cei Llechi.

Other Recommendations in Caernarfon

Ty Winsh - For a light lunch

Y Wal - Great breakfasts

Bisgedi Elli - Pre-order sweet treats

The Courthouse - Great location with evening music events

Bwyd Blasus Yashka - A great wholesome lunch stop

Fu’s - A great sit down Chinese restaurant

Caffi Maes - Family friendly breakfast and lunch spot

Palas Caffi Ice Cream - One of my favourite places for an ice cream

Four Alls - I recommend stopping here for a pizza and a pint

Caernarfon Kebabs - One of the best in the area, hands down!

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.

Where to Eat in Caernarfon