To the west of the Isle, Tapnell Farm hosts a world of entertainment for both children and adults. From a water park to glamping, it’s a hub of fun and adventure. But among all this excitement, Tapnell Farm is also home to one of the Isle’s most popular restaurants: The Cow.
Over the past nine years, The Cow has refined its identity. What started as a fine dining establishment has transformed into a true burger and meat haven. Speaking with manager Matt, I learned that during the peak season, The Cow serves up thousands of burgers, without compromising a single order. Chef Sam took me behind the scenes to show the streamlined process that keeps everything running smoothly, even in the busiest summer months.
The Cow has become a must visit for meat lovers on the Island, offering an exciting range of innovative burgers that have been perfected over the years. For those less keen on meat, their meat-free options hold their own too, ensuring everyone has something to enjoy. Even if you’re dining with a vegetarian or vegan. Despite its name, The Cow makes sure there’s something for everyone.
During the winter, when things slow down and the locals return, The Cow shifts gears with something special: the Tomahawk steak. Weighing in at 1kg, this mammoth of a meal includes two sides, chunky chips, and drinks, a feast for two. It’s pre-paid upon booking, making it easy to simply sit down, enjoy, and walk out, feeling fully satisfied.
When I asked about the vision for The Cow, the response was simple: “To serve the best burger on the Isle of Wight.” But their aspirations go beyond just food. They’re expanding into entertainment nights, like their popular Tap and Ale events, aiming to draw in local audiences as well as summer visitors. But do they really have the best Burger on the Isle of Wight? It’s certainly up there. The burger that stood out to me was The Moo Blue.
The Moo Blue is a bold take on the classic burger, packing in layers of flavour that make every bite unforgettable. The rich Isle of Wight beef is perfectly cooked and acts as a solid foundation, letting the creamy blue cheese add its signature tang and depth. The beetroot chutney brings a touch of sweetness, which pairs beautifully with the savory bite of the gherkins, creating a balance that’s both rich and refreshing. Fresh lettuce and tomato add a crisp contrast, rounding out the burger with just the right amount of crunch. Altogether, The Moo Blue is a masterclass in pairing bold flavours with local ingredients, easily making it my favourite!
The Cow, along with Tapnell Farm, has redefined what it means to succeed on the Isle of Wight. Relentlessly pushing forward, reinvesting in the business, and constantly innovating, they have found ways to keep their park and restaurant experiences fresh and exciting.
As passionate advocates for the Isle of Wight’s food and drink scene, we want to say a heartfelt thanks to The Cow for leading the charge. They’re not only serving up some of the best burgers around but also drawing people to our island, showing off the best of what we have to offer. Here’s to more growth, innovation, and the bold spirit that has brought them so far!
