There’s something magical about finding a place before everyone else does. We’ve gathered five of the Island’s most underrated spots — places off the beaten track, full of charm, and serving genuinely great food.
1. Babbage’s Bistro – Lezayre
You wouldn’t stumble across Babbage’s Bistro by accident — tucked away in the Mountain View Innovation Centre near Lezayre, it’s a little off the beaten path. But once you’re there, it feels like you’ve discovered something truly special.
We visited recently and were genuinely impressed. The food is exceptional — fresh, flavourful, and made entirely from scratch. Chef Bart, who’s worked in some of London’s best kitchens, brings serious talent to the menu, with a focus on quality local produce and proper comfort cooking.
There’s literally something for everyone here — stacked burgers, fresh seasonal salads, ciabattas, hearty specials and loads of veggie and gluten-free options too. It’s all well-priced and full of care and flavour.
One of the highlights? Their daily food deals. Each day brings a new dish into the spotlight, from burgers to curry and more — great value and a reason to keep coming back. They also host themed nights celebrating world cuisines — definitely worth watching out for on their socials.
And then there’s the view. Sat outside with a coffee or your lunch, looking out over the rolling hills of the north, it's genuinely breathtaking.
With friendly service, wheelchair access, ample parking and a warm, welcoming vibe, Babbage’s is more than just a place to eat. It’s a hidden gem in every sense — and one that we believe deserves a place on your foodie hit list.
2. The Welbeck Hotel – Douglas
Just a stone’s throw from Douglas Promenade, The Welbeck Hotel is well-known for its warm hospitality and comfortable rooms — but fewer people know it also hides one of the Island’s most charming and versatile dining spots.
We visited recently and were genuinely impressed by the quality of the food and the laid-back, welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant, set in a bright conservatory-style space, is flooded with natural light and perfect for everything from a casual brunch to a celebratory evening meal.
The Welbeck hosts Boozy Brunches every Saturday, along with regular themed nights like Mexican evenings — well worth keeping an eye on their socials for the latest updates.
In the bar, they even have a pool table and darts board — a bonus that most people wouldn’t even know is there, and a fun surprise if you fancy hanging around after your meal.
The menu is built around locally sourced Manx produce, with plenty of seasonal specials and options to suit all diets, including vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free. Whether you’re popping in for breakfast, Sunday roast, or dinner, there’s something for everyone.
Much of The Welbeck’s lively personality can be credited to General Manager Lucy, who not only runs a tight ship but also curates many of their regular themed nights and keeps their socials buzzing with updates, events, and behind-the-scenes peeks.
The Welbeck isn’t just a hotel — it’s one of those places you’ll keep coming back to, whether you’re in the mood for food, drinks, or both!
3. Pizza Napoli – Douglas
Just a short stroll from the centre of Douglas, Pizza Napoli is one of those spots that regulars rave about — and once you’ve eaten there, it’s easy to see why. This laid-back pizzeria brings serious Italian charm, combining proper wood-fired pizzas with a cosy dine-in vibe and the convenience of takeaway or delivery.
Run by the ever-welcoming Baran and his team, Pizza Napoli is all about doing things properly. Their pizzas are hand-stretched, stone-baked in a traditional wood-fired oven, and made with a homemade tomato base, high-quality mozzarella, and fresh toppings. No microwaves here — just real, honest cooking.
The menu covers all the classics, from Margherita to Pepperoni, but also includes bolder choices like the Don Corleone and Hotshot, plus gluten-free bases, veggie options, and even build-your-own pizzas if you're feeling creative. Not in the mood for pizza? They will have you covered with hearty pasta dishes, loaded burgers, and generous sides like halloumi fingers, garlic bread, and bolognese chips.
We were very impressed by their desserts — the homemade tiramisu, banana pudding, and indulgent Dolce Gusto pizza (mascarpone, Nutella, caramel, and cinnamon) were all worth saving room for.
Pizza Napoli is BYOB, so bring your favourite bottle along. With friendly service and a cosy little dining area, we find it’s ideal for a casual night out, a quick bite, or a relaxed dinner with friends.
Whether you’re craving comfort or chasing flavour, Pizza Napoli delivers every time — a true hidden gem in the heart of Douglas.
4. The Fish Bar Delicatessen – Peel
The Fish Bar Delicatessen, located in a small trailer on the Peel beachfront, might be modest in size — but don’t be fooled. This little seaside truck has earned a mighty reputation for serving some of the freshest and most flavour-packed seafood on the Isle of Man. It’s a true hidden gem that captures the heart of Peel’s fishing heritage, dishing up authentic Manx flavours with a relaxed charm that keeps people coming back for more.
We visited recently and went straight for the Manx queenies with bacon — cooked fresh and served on a seashell. It was simple, beautifully seasoned, and bursting with local flavour. That’s the magic of The Fish Bar: no gimmicks, just proper seafood done right. It’s been operating for over a decade, and it shows — owner Antony Barrow is friendly, knowledgeable, and clearly takes real pride in his craft.
The menu is refreshingly focused, featuring local favourites like the Queenie Scallop Bap, pickled seafood mix, and the rich, warming hot seafood pots. Everything is made to order, often using freshly caught shellfish delivered by their family-run supplier, Island Shellfish, based just steps away in Peel Harbour.
They do now have a small online presence, but The Fish Bar still feels like a word-of-mouth treasure — unassuming, authentic, and consistently excellent. Size definitely doesn’t matter here — The Fish Bar Delicatessen packs a serious punch, and if you’re in Peel, it’s a must-visit for any seafood lover.
5. The Ginger Hall – Sulby
The Ginger Hall Hotel might not be a hidden gem during TT — in fact, it’s one of the most iconic and recognisable spots along the course. For many, it’s best known as a classic pub with a great view of the action. But what fewer people realise is that The Ginger Hall has undergone a quiet transformation, with a seriously impressive kitchen now at its heart.
Behind the menu is Head Chef Willem, whose culinary journey began at the prestigious Institute of Culinary Arts in Stellenbosch, South Africa. Willem brings Michelin-level experience, having worked at some of South Africa’s most acclaimed restaurants including Reuben’s, Overture, and Waterkloof, alongside celebrated chefs like Gordon Ramsay, Bertus Basson and Gregory Czarnecki.
Now on the Isle of Man, he’s brought that same passion and precision to The Ginger Hall, blending global influences with Manx ingredients to deliver a menu that surprises and delights. From pan-fried chilli and lime prawns, to rich slow-cooked pork belly, and pub favourites done to a higher standard — there’s something here for all tastes.
One standout that took us by surprise was their Georgian Khachapuri — and to our knowledge, the only place on the Isle of Man serving it. This indulgent dish is essentially one of the best garlic breads we’ve ever had: a warm, golden bread boat filled with a rich mix of creamy Parmesan, cottage cheese and egg. It’s bold, comforting, and absolutely unforgettable.
Willem’s love of Asian and French flavours adds creativity and depth throughout the menu, and everything is made using locally sourced produce wherever possible. Whether you’re dropping in for a quiet midweek dinner or booking in for a Sunday roast with friends, this place is punching well above typical pub fare.
We also tried their takeaway breakfast hut next door — serving up freshly made breakfast baps to order, perfect for fuelling up on the go. We highly recommend if you’re passing through.
The Ginger Hall isn’t just an iconic TT watering hole — it’s now a destination for great food, elevated by serious culinary talent.
What is Dazzler?
Dazzler is the Isle of Man’s most complete and up-to-date restaurant and hospitality guide — built by a team of locals after visiting almost 170 different businesses in person.
Free to use for both consumers and businesses, it’s designed to celebrate and support the incredible diversity of our Island’s food scene.
Whether you're after a quick coffee, a family dinner, or something new entirely, Dazzler will help you find it.
You can filter by cuisine type, allergy or accessibility needs, location, and more — making it easier than ever to explore your options, all in one place.