Being born and bred in Blackpool (something we call Sandgrown’un) it’s a privilege to write about my hometown.
Blackpool has a reputation for being purely a tack-filled hen & stag do destination, but there are plenty of great eateries if you know where to look – and soon you will!
We have to kick this off with places that need to be on your must-eat list..
Fish and chips (of course!)
A good old chippy is something we Sandgrown’uns feel passionate about (heck we sometimes feel we invented it despite many of us having no idea if that’s true). Basically, you have to try a chippy when in Blackpool.
My favourite place for fish and chips without a doubt in Blackpool is the Top Chippy in Bispham – just a short tram ride from the town centre. If it’s illumination season, even better! The best bits of the ‘lights’ as we call them, are right outside the Top Chippy.
Go to the prom and catch any tram going right (if you’re facing the sea). Get off at the little Bispham tram stop. You’ll see a big arcade on the corner, go down that street (Red Bank Road) and you’ll see it.
Want to have your chippy in the centre? Try Tower Fisheries – it was also a solid favourite of mine as a child.
Ice cream
Now, this isn’t just because you’re by the seaside which means it’s practically law to have an ice cream. No, it’s because we have Notrianni’s – an absolute institution and spring/summer ritual. This family business has been integral to Blackpool for over 90 years.
Once the weather starts to get a bit brighter, and flower buds start coming up, everyone in Blackpool plots when to get their ‘first Notrainnis of the season’. A lot of fuss over ice cream you say? What about if I told you they ONLY serve vanilla ice cream and I STILL stand by the fuss I’ve made? … go and try it for yourself.
It’s located in South Shore (perfect to tie in with a visit to the Pleasure Beach or Sandcastle Water Park). If you’re heading there from town, jump on any tram going left (if you’re facing the sea) and get off at Waterloo Road and follow the queues.
If you visit in the winter, just make sure you come back when they’re open! They usually open in March and close early Autumn.
Ok! Now we’ve got the must-eats out of the way, we can move on to other good options you can add to your itinerary.
Places to eat in Blackpool Town Centre
If you’re in town for a show at the Winter Gardens or the Grand Theatre and are seeking a pre-theatre meal, eating in the town centre is the best bet.
Abingdon Street Market
Abingdon Street Market has been at the core of the town centre for years, however, more recently it’s had a much-needed revamp to revive it to become the beating heart of the community once more.
I personally was so excited for the town when I heard of the plans to convert the old market into a food hall you’d see in Manchester or Liverpool. It’s just what the town needs to put it on the map for a place to visit beyond the nightlife.
I frequent it now and the food and atmosphere never disappoint. There’s plenty to choose from from Thai, to burgers, to proper Neapolitan Pizza (very grateful for this since Naples turned me into a pizza snob) and more.
There’s always a good atmosphere, and often live music, or some other event going on. It’s become a hub of local artistic talent, and now has stalls to showcase the best of this so you can buy the perfect souvenir there too.
No booking, just show up!
Stefanis
Having mentioned my pizza snobishness, you know this one won’t disappoint. Stefanis is another family-run gem, and it imports most of its ingredients from the home of pizza itself – Naples! It’s a small place inside, but in summer they open up onto the square so you can enjoy your meal whilst people-watching.
If you’re visiting on a weekend, it’s best to book which you can do here on their website. They even do takeout if you’re staying in an Airbnb and fancy a night in.
West Coast Rock Cafe
If you fancy somewhere with good burgers, and Tex-Mex dishes in a laid-back atmosphere, West Coast is your place. Again, it’s been around for years, and I’ve never had a bad time there. They also do some insane deals on a Monday – Wednesday if you’re in town then. This is a great option for families.
Dirty Blondes
If you fancy a fun place to eat in Blackpool opt for Dirty Blondes. Think NYC-style pizza slices, wings, and mouth-watering super-loaded fries in a bar-type setting. Often at the weekends, there is a lively atmosphere and live music.
Common Bar & Kitchen
Another firm favourite with me and my friends is Common (also owned by the same people as Dirty Blondes). Common serves mouth watering tacos, nachos, and burritos in a vibey setting. Again, live music is common (see how well that one was set up!?), and if that’s not on, there is always good background ambience music on (and good cocktails too!).
Mandarin
Named by the Independent the 3rd best Chinese restaurant in the UK (yes, in Blackpool!) – this list would simply be incomplete without this place. Incredible Chinese food is served in a beautiful setting, so a visit here is a good choice. Booking is a must!
You could also try their sister restaurant Wok Inn, right on the seafront for more Asian delights in a quirkier setting. They describe themselves as ‘Budapest ruin bar meets Penang Hawker Market in a seaside noodle bar‘. Again, a good idea to book a table.
Places to enjoy a posh/nice meal in Blackpool
The Mandarin is a nice place to eat in the town centre, but if you want a more upmarket atmosphere in general heading to Lytham is a great option.
Just down the road from Blackpool (believe it or not), is the beautiful area of Lytham St-Annes with not a rock shop, hen party L’s, or bucket and spade in sight. It’s hard to believe the two are only a 20-minute drive away.
In summer, Lytham is a lovely place to enjoy some lunch outside and watch the world go by. There is also a lovely walking path right on the promenade with stunning views across the River Ribble Estuary, and the surrounding area. Lytham has a range of local boutique & independent shops to browse too.
One of my favourite things to do in Lytham in the summer is to get a takeaway from the fish and chip shop (got to be Whelans), and eat it on Lytham Green. Feel like something different? Opt for Elvins, a take-out street food place serving dishes such as Lebanese Chicken, or Buddha bowls.
If you’re in the mood for a sit-down meal The Queens Hotel is an upmarket cosy country pub right in the town. The seasonal menu offers fresh, beautifully cooked food, enjoyed sitting by log fires and enveloped in gorgeous interiors. Dogs are allowed here and it’s a good option for families too. They serve an incredible Sunday Roast!
If you’re after something more Mediterranean, go for Bosco, or Zest, both are incredible options. Be sure to book for both. You can book Bosco online here, and call Zest to book on 01253 735 253.
If this has helped you plan your meals in Blackpool, let us know how you got on in the comments and which was your favourite. Or, have we dared miss somewhere you think deserves a spot? Let us know!