Scotland may be best-known for its stunning castles, oatcakes and whisky; but the country also offers much more in terms of food than just haggis. Chefs today are taking advantage of Scotland’s plentiful fresh produce to craft modern interpretations of traditional dishes with bold flavor combinations that won’t go amis.
Restaurant Martin Wishart on Skye offers an innovative cuisine combining traditional Scottish flavors with modern culinary techniques.
Inver Restaurant
Inver Restaurant may look unassuming from the outside, but inside is packed with unexpected delights that make its menu unparalleled. Passers-by expecting traditional pub fare are politely redirected towards The Oyster Catcher down the road; but its owners, Pam Brunton and Rob Latimer, boast years of experience at some of Europe’s finest dining spots that they use to craft unique, balanced and delicious Scottish produce dishes for you to experience!
At Loch Fyne Hotel and Restaurant in wild Argyll, Pam and Rob have created something very special. As champions of sustainability (they hold one Michelin Green Star), their passion shines through in each meal they prepare for guests.
Many of the ingredients come from an intimate group of local suppliers; there’s even a cluster of bothies and shepherd huts on the estate, and plenty of handmade pieces made by local crafters in the restaurant gleaming copper pans and handmade crockery are showcased here too! But the main attraction lies with their premium produce. The menu at Loch Leven Kitchen showcases innovative takes on traditional Caledonian food – such as whipping custard with raw ginger and whisky, or cooking over coals with cured courgettes and sheep’s yoghurt for example. The dishes here are exquisitely balanced and executed perfectly – the plating is impeccable: plaice is decorated with fresh new-season peas, foraged gooseberries and crunchy dabberlocks; cured trout comes paired with grilled pea soup that’s exquisitely fanning itself into a tactile handmade bowl; while for dessert there’s an outstanding grilled strawberry mousse/elderflower pannacotta combination featuring burnt strawberry powder-dusted pastry that stands out.
Fhior
Fhior Restaurant has won an array of prestigious awards, such as Edinburgh’s Best Restaurant. Their menu draws inspiration from nature and highlights seasonal produce in various ways; furthermore, Fhior is committed to using locally sourced ingredients – they use asparagus from 45 minutes away!
Chef Scott Smith and Laura started The True restaurant together in 2018 to offer contemporary yet intimate dining experience. As its name indicates, The True restaurant stands for authenticity in every sense – be it food, wines or art installations. Everything about their dining experience honors Scotland’s heritage while simultaneously celebrating natural flavors and artistic expression.
The menu is focused around foraged ingredients, light cooking techniques, and clean flavors. The wine list is kept short with just 55 bottles curated by Sommelier Skea. Arranging the bottles by style rather than price helps guests navigate their selection.
Food here was truly breathtakingly good, from chicken with mushrooms, barley and lovage; to halibut with Swiss chard and salt marsh herbs; and dessert consisting of chocolate cremeux, gooseberry and rose. Although this restaurant may not be for everyone, we highly recommend visiting it and experiencing all it has to offer!
Ubiquitous Chip
Ubiquitous Chip Restaurant was established in 1971 in Glasgow, Scotland. Specializing in providing premium restaurant cuisine featuring high quality Scottish ingredients served with warm hospitality, this company excels at serving exceptional dining experiences to their guests.
The Chip is one of Glasgow’s premier dining and bar establishments, known for both fine dining and casual bar fare. Their seasonal menu reflects only the finest Scottish produce available and tastes delicious while being affordable; plus they boast an exciting atmosphere!
Ashton Lane restaurant has been providing delicious dishes to Glaswegians for more than forty years, creating memorable dining experiences full of great food, drinks and laughter. A cultural landmark within Glasgow itself.
Ronnie Clydesdale established The Chip in 1971 on a side street of Glasgow’s west end during an era when Scottish cuisine was mostly limited to home cooking and most chefs only knew Italian or French cooking techniques. Ronnie set out to champion Scottish food and, despite Covid restrictions, has managed to continue his legacy through Colin, his son; together they continue Ronnie’s vision of an eatery celebrating Scottish culinary glories.
The Boatshed Cafe
The Boatshed Cafe, nestled within a scenic loch, is a beloved eatery among both locals and visitors. Offering traditional Scottish fare with international flair – haggis toastie or hearty venison burger – The Boatshed caters to everyone. Indulge in some delicious vegetarian offerings or take home some refreshing coffee and cakes from this popular spot!
At this acclaimed Edinburgh restaurant, their cuisine focuses on seasonal ingredients and traditional techniques of preparation. Their interior features elegant white walls with delicate glassware and neutral-toned crockery; their menu boasts innovative dishes like airy sesame prawn toast or buttermilk-fried rabbit in saffron sauce – not to be outdone by their elegant setting!
This restaurant in Scotland is an absolute must for seafood enthusiasts. Their fresh and flavorful cuisine, exceptional service, and reasonable pricing makes this dining option truly a gem. Don’t miss their famous Cullen Skink, made of smoked haddock, potatoes and onions soup!
The Boatshed Cafe can be found near Loch Goil in Lochgoilhead, Scotland and makes for an excellent day trip into the Highlands. At Lake Goil there are various activities available including hiking and water sports – not forgetting that this dog-friendly cafe provides breathtaking views of its surroundings!
