The Stack Restaurant and Bar, Muchalls
Innovative Scottish dining in a relaxed coastal village setting, blending fresh local ingredients with global flavors.
The Stack Restaurant and Bar is a celebrated dining spot located in the coastal village of Muchalls near Stonehaven, Scotland. Known for its inventive, seasonal cuisine crafted from fresh, local ingredients, it offers a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere with a menu that blends Scottish produce with global influences. The restaurant is led by experienced chef Andy Smart and is renowned for its excellent food, attentive service, and a welcoming environment that even includes dog-friendly policies.
A brief summary to The Stack Restaurant and Bar
- 14 Dunnyfell Rd, Stonehaven, Muchalls, AB39 3RP, GB
- +441569730393
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Wednesday 12:30 pm-3 pm
- Thursday 12:30 pm-3 pm
- Friday 12:30 pm-3 pm
- Saturday 12:15 pm-12 am
- Sunday 12:30 pm-5 pm
Local tips
- Reserve a table on weekends as the restaurant is popular and can get busy.
- Try the signature cocktails, which are highly recommended by regulars.
- Ask about daily specials to experience unique seasonal dishes.
- Visit during sunset to enjoy stunning views of the nearby coastline.
- The restaurant welcomes dogs, so feel free to bring your furry friends along.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Parking
The Stack Restaurant and Bar location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about The Stack Restaurant and Bar
A Coastal Culinary Gem Rooted in Local Flavors
Nestled in the charming village of Muchalls, The Stack Restaurant and Bar draws its name from the striking sea stacks found along the nearby coastline. This location offers a unique culinary experience that celebrates the best of Scotland’s local produce, enhanced by the creative vision of Head Chef Andy Smart. With over 25 years of experience in prestigious Scottish establishments and international influences from his travels, Smart crafts a menu that is both seasonal and inventive, blending traditional Scottish ingredients with global flavors.Chef Andy Smart’s Vision and Expertise
Andy Smart’s culinary journey has taken him from renowned venues such as Gleneagles and the St Andrews Old Course Hotel to catering for royalty and celebrities. His extensive background shines through in the carefully curated dishes at The Stack, where quality and presentation are paramount. The menu features a variety of options including seafood, steaks, and vegetarian dishes, often showcasing local specialties like Deeside venison and fresh Shetland mussels. The restaurant also offers unique daily specials and signature cocktails, inviting guests to explore new tastes in a welcoming setting.Atmosphere and Dining Experience
The Stack provides a relaxed and casual environment that is both family and dog-friendly, making it a versatile choice for different occasions. The interior is designed to complement the coastal surroundings, offering a comfortable space to enjoy meals with friends or family. Guests often praise the attentive and friendly staff, who contribute to the warm atmosphere. While the restaurant can get lively, especially on weekends, it maintains a cozy charm that encourages lingering over thoughtfully prepared dishes.Menu Highlights and Culinary Offerings
The menu is diverse and well-balanced, featuring starters like BBQ tiger prawns with local crab croquettes and Shetland mussels prepared fresh daily. Main courses range from 24-hour braised beef brisket to chargrilled picanha steak and BBQ lamb rump, all paired with seasonal sides. Vegetarian and vegan options are also thoughtfully included, such as cauliflower steak and couscous salad. Desserts like strawberry and elderflower fool offer a sweet finish using local ingredients. The restaurant’s commitment to fresh, local sourcing ensures a dynamic menu that changes with the seasons.Location and Accessibility
Situated just off the A92, about 10 minutes south of Aberdeen, The Stack is easily accessible for both locals and visitors exploring Aberdeenshire’s scenic coast. The village of Muchalls provides a tranquil backdrop, with nearby attractions such as Stonehaven Beach and Stonehaven Harbour enhancing the visit. Free off-street parking is available, and the restaurant’s opening hours cater to lunch and dinner services, with extended hours on weekends.Community and Sustainability Focus
The Stack’s emphasis on local suppliers and seasonal produce reflects a commitment to sustainability and supporting the regional economy. This approach not only ensures freshness but also reduces environmental impact. The restaurant welcomes a diverse audience, including families, solo diners, and couples, and offers a hospitable setting that embraces inclusivity and comfort.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Boswell's Monument
5.1 km
Historic hilltop monument offering panoramic Aberdeenshire views and local heritage significance.
Blairs Museum
8.8 km
Explore Scotland’s Catholic heritage through centuries-old artifacts at Blairs Museum near Aberdeen, a unique cultural and spiritual treasure.
Keith's Tower
12.0 km
Discover Keith's Tower near Banchory, a striking 19th-century castellated landmark steeped in Scottish heritage and scenic charm.
McGrigor Memorial Obelisk
12.4 km
A polished pink granite obelisk in Duthie Park honoring Sir James McGrigor, father of modern military medicine and a key figure in Aberdeen’s history.
Piper Alpha Memorial Garden
13.0 km
A solemn bronze memorial honoring 167 lives lost in the world's deadliest offshore oil disaster.
Robert Burns Family Memorial Cairn
13.2 km
Honoring Robert Burns’s ancestral roots in Stonehaven with a timeless stone memorial set in scenic Scottish countryside.
Queen Victoria Statue
13.6 km
Bronze tribute to a beloved monarch, marking Aberdeen's elegant West End and the city's royal heritage.
Balnagask Motte
13.9 km
Medieval earthen mound marking an early wooden castle, shrouded in mystery and local legend.
Edward VIII Post Box
14.0 km
Discover a rare Edward VIII post box in Aberdeen, a unique relic from the brief 1936 reign of a king who changed British history.
St Mary of the Assumption Cathedral, Aberdeen
14.1 km
Aberdeen’s Roman Catholic cathedral, a Gothic Revival gem with daily worship, Polish and Spanish Masses, and a peaceful Lady Chapel.
Duke Of Gordon Monument
14.2 km
A monumental granite statue in Aberdeen honoring the 5th Duke of Gordon’s military and civic legacy in a historic city square.
Edward VII Statue
14.2 km
Aberdeen’s grand Edward VII Statue stands in full ceremonial robes, a striking granite and bronze tribute to the British monarch at the heart of the city.
Aedie's House site
14.3 km
Step into Aberdeen’s past at the site of Aedie’s House, a 16th‑century townhouse whose memory lives on in stone, street names, and local history.
The Kirk of St. Nicholas Colonnade
14.4 km
An elegant neoclassical gateway marking the historic Kirk of St. Nicholas kirkyard in the heart of Aberdeen’s city centre.
Rosemount Market
14.4 km
Discover Aberdeen’s Rosemount Market, a vibrant hub for sustainable shopping, local produce, and artisan crafts in a welcoming community setting.
Unmissable attractions to see
Stonehaven Beach
6.9 km
A scenic 1.1 km pebble and sandy beach in charming Stonehaven, blending natural beauty, history, and vibrant coastal life on Scotland’s northeast shore.
Tolbooth Museum
7.2 km
Explore Stonehaven’s oldest building, a 16th-century tolbooth turned museum revealing Scotland’s rich judicial and maritime heritage.
Stonehaven Harbour
7.3 km
Experience the beauty and history of Stonehaven Harbour, a must-visit coastal gem in Scotland offering stunning views and delicious seafood.
Dunnottar Cliffs
8.3 km
Dramatic cliff-top ruins steeped in history, guarding Scotland’s crown jewels and offering breathtaking coastal views.
The Den & The Glen
8.3 km
A nostalgic children’s playground in Maryculter where storybook characters come to life amidst scenic, family-friendly grounds.
Barney Sculpture
8.3 km
Discover the quirky Barney Sculpture, a playful icon within The Den and The Glen’s imaginative fairy-tale park near Aberdeen.
Dunnottar Castle
8.7 km
Discover the enchanting beauty and rich history of Dunnottar Castle, a stunning historical landmark perched on cliffs overlooking the North Sea.
Peterculter Golf Club
9.7 km
Experience the scenic beauty and challenging play of Peterculter Golf Club nestled along the River Dee with panoramic mountain views.
Heritage Stones
10.8 km
Explore Heritage Stones in Cove Bay, Aberdeen - a unique tourist attraction showcasing ancient stone formations and stunning coastal views.
Kincorth Hill Local Nature Reserve
11.0 km
Explore diverse habitats and enjoy sweeping panoramic views over Aberdeen at Kincorth Hill Local Nature Reserve.
Bridge of Dee
11.5 km
Discover the Bridge of Dee, a historical marvel in Aberdeen that offers breathtaking views and a glimpse into Scotland's rich architectural heritage.
Foggieton
12.1 km
A serene woodland retreat near Aberdeen with historic beech trees, native forests, and family-friendly trails through nature’s quiet beauty.
The Mains of Drum
12.4 km
A family-run garden centre and award-winning restaurant offering stunning landscaped grounds, local produce, and expert gardening advice in Royal Deeside.
RSPB Scotland Fowlsheugh
12.5 km
Experience Scotland’s largest mainland seabird colony on breathtaking 30-metre cliffs with stunning coastal wildlife and panoramic views.
Countesswells
12.6 km
A peaceful woodland escape on the edge of Aberdeen, with wide trails, tall trees, and gentle views over farmland and the city skyline.
Essential places to dine
The Stack Restaurant and Bar
0.0 km
Innovative Scottish dining in a relaxed coastal village setting, blending fresh local ingredients with global flavors.
Mains Of Balquharn Brewers Fayre
4.9 km
Family-friendly pub in Portlethen serving classic British dishes and hearty breakfasts in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
The Bay Fish & Chips
6.5 km
Freshly battered fish and hearty chips served with seaside charm in Stonehaven’s beloved coastal eatery.
The Tolbooth Seafood Restaurant
7.2 km
A refined seafood dining experience set in a historic harbourfront building with stunning North Sea views in Stonehaven.
SeafoodBothy
7.3 km
Authentic Stonehaven seafood served fresh in an intimate, cozy setting with a focus on quality and local flavors.
Blairs Restaurant
9.4 km
Refined Scottish dining in a historic country estate near Aberdeen, blending fresh local flavors with elegant ambiance.
The Ploughman
10.2 km
A traditional Scottish pub and restaurant in Peterculter serving hearty local dishes with warm hospitality and a rich drinks selection.
The Bieldside Inn
10.3 km
A contemporary English pub and restaurant in Aberdeen offering quality food, warm hospitality, and inviting spaces for every occasion.
The Himalayas Restaurant
10.4 km
Authentic Nepalese and Indian flavors served with warm hospitality in the heart of Peterculter, Aberdeen.
Borsalino
10.9 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine with a modern twist in the warm, inviting atmosphere of Borsalino, Peterculter’s culinary gem.
The Conservatory Restaurant and Drawing Room Bar | The Marcliffe
11.3 km
Elegant British dining in a historic Aberdeen mansion with refined cuisine, live music, and warm hospitality.
The Marcliffe Hotel and Spa
11.3 km
Luxurious Victorian country house hotel with elegant rooms, fine dining, and a tranquil spa set in peaceful gardens near Aberdeen.
Harvester Ghillies Lair Aberdeen
11.6 km
Family-friendly British bar and grill with unlimited salad, riverside views, and a welcoming atmosphere near Aberdeen’s Bridge of Dee.
The Bothy Restaurant
12.5 km
Authentic Scottish dining with traditional flavours and warm hospitality in the heart of Aberdeen’s Palm Court Hotel.
Rendezvous | Nargile
13.1 km
Experience authentic Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine in a warm, family-friendly setting with contemporary charm in Aberdeen.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
My Beautiful Caravan
7.1 km
Discover unique gifts and charming treasures in Stonehaven’s beloved boutique, My Beautiful Caravan.
LUXE
10.1 km
Discover unique gifts and local artisan treasures at LUXE, a charming gift shop in Cove Bay, Aberdeen, that captures the essence of Scotland.
Sonya Angus: The Unique Boutique
10.7 km
Discover stylish gifts, rustic furniture, and fashion accessories in a warm, community-focused boutique nestled in Cults’ charming Courtyard.
Gifted
12.4 km
Discover unique and locally inspired gifts at Gifted, Aberdeen’s boutique treasure trove on Countesswells Road.
Joli Gifts
13.1 km
A cozy independent gift shop in Aberdeen filled with handmade treasures, local art, and thoughtful Scottish souvenirs.
Country Ways Aberdeen
13.5 km
Northeast Scotland's premier destination for country, lifestyle, and equestrian wear since 1978.
Fernweh UK
13.7 km
Wanderlust-infused accessories from Aberdeen's harbourfront artist studios—discover handcrafted jewelry and scarves amid makers' workshops.
Frantiques
13.8 km
Waterfront antique shop brimming with maritime treasures and eclectic vintage finds.
Kafka Mercantile
13.8 km
Independent Aberdeen retailer since 1990, curating artisanal clothing and footwear from distinctive international brands.
Surreal Journey
13.8 km
Discover Surreal Journey, Aberdeen’s boutique clothing shop where fashion meets imaginative artistry in a truly unique retail experience.
Sirene Boutique Aberdeen
13.9 km
Discover timeless style and vibrant prints at Sirene Boutique Aberdeen, a unique ladies’ fashion destination on Union Street.
Colin Wood Antiques
13.9 km
Discover rare Scottish maps, vintage furniture, and timeless collectibles in the heart of Aberdeen’s antique scene.
Tiger Lily Boutique
13.9 km
Elegant women's boutique on Aberdeen's Chapel Street, curating versatile dresses and chic separates for effortless day-to-night style in a historic setting.
Copper & Grey
13.9 km
Bright independent gift shop on Aberdeen's Chapel Street, brimming with unique cards, jewellery, stationery, and local maker treasures for every occasion.
No 18 Gifts & Cards
14.0 km
Discover unique greeting cards, stylish accessories, and thoughtful gifts at No 18 Gifts & Cards, a charming boutique in Aberdeen’s Chapel Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Quoiters Cafe Bar
1.4 km
A friendly and lively bar in Newtonhill offering local ales, weekly bingo nights, and a cozy atmosphere for all to enjoy.
The Paddock Bar
4.0 km
A family-friendly pub and lounge in Portlethen offering great homemade food, extensive drinks, live sports, and weekend entertainment.
Cowie Bar @ Recreation Grounds
6.5 km
A welcoming Scottish pub with a scenic beer garden and vibrant community spirit at Stonehaven Recreation Grounds.
Number 44 Hotel & Bar
7.0 km
Cozy coastal hotel and vibrant bar in Stonehaven offering sea views, delicious food, and warm Scottish hospitality.
Station Hotel
7.3 km
A charming Stonehaven hotel blending traditional Scottish hospitality with modern comforts, great food, and a welcoming bar.
Marine Hotel
7.3 km
Experience coastal elegance and warm Scottish hospitality with stunning harbour views at Stonehaven’s Marine Hotel.
Six°North
7.3 km
Lively waterfront pub at The Marine Hotel offering traditional Scottish fare and stunning Stonehaven Harbour views.
The Old Bank Bar Ltd
10.5 km
A charming former bank turned cozy bar and cafe, blending historic character with friendly service and hearty meals in Peterculter.
Black's Bar
10.6 km
Experience authentic Scottish hospitality and lively village pub charm at Black's Bar in Peterculter, Aberdeen.
Brig O Dee Bar
11.7 km
Traditional Aberdeen pub with cozy charm, local craft beers, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere on Holburn Street.
Abergeldie Bar
12.3 km
Abergeldie Bar blends cozy charm and vibrant nightlife in Aberdeen’s city centre with quality drinks and welcoming vibes.
Holburn Bar
13.2 km
A lively and welcoming pub in Aberdeen offering great food, drinks, and entertainment for locals and visitors alike.
Foundry aberdeen
13.7 km
Lively Aberdeen pub blending live sports, great food, and vibrant entertainment in a warm, modern setting.
The Glentanar Bar
13.7 km
A stylish, dog-friendly independent bar in Aberdeen’s West End, known for local food vendors, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere.
College Bar
13.8 km
Aberdeen’s vibrant sports and cocktail bar with live music, state-of-the-art viewing, and versatile event spaces in a historic granite building.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Casual
- Lively
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Nature Escape
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly