Best Places to Eat in the Scottish Highlands for a Traditional Scottish Experience

23/07/2024

The Scottish Highlands, with its breathtaking landscapes and rich history, offer more than just scenic views. It is a treasure trove of flavours that tell the story of Scotland’s rich food traditions. From cosy pubs serving hearty fare to Michelin-starred restaurants pushing culinary boundaries, here’s a list of great places to savour authentic Scottish cuisine.

Seafood Shack, Ullapool

This award-winning casual eatery has garnered national attention for its simple yet delicious approach:

  • Featured in numerous TV shows and food magazines
  • It offers a range of freshly caught local fish, including scallops, langoustines, mussels, trout, and haddock
  • Uses sustainable fishing practices

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Lochinver Larder, Lochinver, Assynt

More than just a pie shop, Lochinver Larder is a Highland institution:

  • Wide varieties of pies, including exotic flavours like venison and cranberry; haggis, neeps, tatties and apricot and peach
  • Stunning views over Loch Inver
  • A takeaway option for hikers exploring nearby Suilven Mountain
  • ‘Pies By Post’ home delivery option for those who are wanting to try these delicious pies

Applecross Inn, Applecross & Torridon

More than just a meal, it’s an adventure:

  • Accessible via the hair-raising Bealach na Bà road, one of Britain’s highest
  • Offers rooms for those who want to extend their stay with beautiful sea views
  • Features local ales, lagers and an extensive whisky selection
  • Across the Inn is the Applecross Inn-Side Out, a retro-inspired food truck that serves fish and chips, pasties, and sandwiches.

The Boathouse, Isle of Ulva

Nestled on the tiny Isle of Ulva, The Boathouse is a hidden gem worth the journey. This family-run establishment offers:

  • Daily catch from their fishing boat, including shellfish and local produce from Mull
  • Spectacular views of the Sound of Ulva
  • A chance to try hand-dived scallops and freshly caught langoustines

The Real Food Cafe, Tyndrum

More than just a roadside stop, this cafe is a beacon of quality:

  • Winner of the “Best Independent Fish & Chip Restaurant” in Scotland
  • Offers Scottish Breakfast including bacon, sausage, black pudding, & tattie scones
  • It has a dedicated gluten-free fryer for those with dietary restrictions
  • Wide range of vegetarian & vegan dishes, including Vegan MacSween Haggis & Chips

The Geographer, Fort William

A quirky spot that combines food and education:

  • Flavoursome food inspired by owners’ travels and local produce
  • A variety of fish and meat dishes, including seabass, highland Pork Salami Salad, and highland venison & black pudding stew
  • The Geographer brews their own beer
  • Located near the base of Ben Nevis, Scotland’s highest mountain

Three Chimneys, Isle of Skye

A world-renowned restaurant that puts a modern twist on Highland cuisine:

  • Holds 3 AA Rosettes for culinary excellence
  • It uses hyperlocal ingredients, including seaweed from Loch Dunvegan
  • Fresh Langoustines, Mussels, Crab, Oysters and Scallops feature throughout the menu
  • Offers a “Skye, Land and Sea” tasting menu

Shieldaig Lodge Hotel, Gairloch

A luxurious dining experience in a historic setting:

  • Housed in a 19th-century hunting lodge
  • Features a whisky bar with over 250 varieties
  • Offers falconry experiences and fishing trips to catch your dinner

The Old Forge, Inverie

Located on the south shore of the Knoydart peninsula, the journey is part of the experience:

  • No roads lead to Inverie; arrive by boat or an 18-mile hike
  • Features live traditional music sessions
  • Wide range of cask ales, draught beers & ciders
  • Daily changing menu including fresh seafood, homemade soups, salads and pub grubs

The Torridon, Wester Ross

A Michelin-starred restaurant in a 19th-century hunting lodge:

  • Award-winning 2 AA Rosette restaurant incorporating flavours from the Scottish Highlands
  • Its Whisky Bar and Beinn Bar offers a range of 365 single malts to local ales and Scottish gins
  • Surrounding The Torridon, there are lots of activities including private sea tours, stargazing, nature trails, archery and snorkelling

Croft 36, Isle of Harris

A unique honor system shed turned gourmet takeaway:

  • Features homemade breads, cakes, pastries, pies, soups and quiches made daily
  • Locally caught seafood available including Levburgh Langoustines, Crab and Fish
  • Perfect place to grab food for a picnic on the nearby Luskentyre Beach

These establishments offer delicious food and provide a gateway into Highland culture and hospitality. From remote islands to mountain-side inns, each place tells a story of Scotland’s rich culinary traditions and innovative spirit. Whether you’re a food enthusiast, a whisky connoisseur, or simply looking for an authentic Scottish experience, these spots promise unforgettable meals amidst some of the world’s most stunning scenery.

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