10th September 2008
Amazing tasting food!
This is quite simply the best restaurant in Whitby.
More specifically, you will not find better fish dishes anywhere in the country.
The Magpie Cafe, in business since 1939, benefits from something no other restaurant in the UK can - it's location. It has excellent views of the harbour, St.Hilda's (Whitby Abbey) and St. Mary's church. It sources much of it's fish and seasfood from Whitby Fish Market, which is directly opposite it's doors - you simply cannot get fresher more beautiful tasting fish - sea to plate in a matter of hours. The finest fish in the UK - imo.
My favourite dish is a Magpie Fish Pie - I order it nine times our of ten as it is exquisite; my partner always goes for simple cod and chips for the same reason. The fresh Whitby Crab is also excellent.
Portion sizes are large. The starters and desserts are also first rate.
Service is top notch - friendly and attentive without being overbearing and it is quite old fashioned, almost like a traditional tea room a la Betty's (if you don't know Betty's look them up - they are amazing). That may not be to everyones tastes, but I find it brilliant. The only downside is that as the place is so popular there is often a 20-30 minute or so wait for a table.
Prices are more than reasonable. A two course meal (starter and main) will set you back roughly £15 plus drinks.