Palmerston Cafe: Dumfries’ Classic Fish & Chips with Italian Flair
A family-run Dumfries classic serving award-winning fish & chips and authentic Italian ice cream since 1969.
Palmerston Cafe in Dumfries offers a beloved blend of traditional Scottish fish and chips alongside an extensive selection of Italian-style ice creams. Family-run since 1969, this vibrant eatery serves freshly made pizzas, pies, and Lavazza coffee in a casual setting with seating for about 30 guests. Open daily until 10 PM, it combines hearty British fare with a touch of Italian charm just minutes from Dumfries town centre.
A brief summary to Palmerston Cafe
- 68 Glasgow St, Dumfries, DG2 9AQ, GB
- +441387254789
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10:30 am-10 pm
- Tuesday 10:30 am-10 pm
- Wednesday 10:30 am-10 pm
- Thursday 10:30 am-10 pm
- Friday 10:30 am-10 pm
- Saturday 10:30 am-10 pm
- Sunday 10:30 am-10 pm
Local tips
- Try the traditional fish and chips paired with one of their over 50 Italian-style ice cream flavors for a perfect sweet and savory combo.
- Visit during weekday afternoons for a quieter experience and table availability.
- Take advantage of free off-street parking when dining in.
- Enjoy a freshly brewed Lavazza coffee to complement your meal.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Palmerston Cafe location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Palmerston Cafe
A Storied Family Tradition in Dumfries
Palmerston Cafe has been a staple of Dumfries since 1969, proudly operated by the Tamburrini family for nearly five decades. This continuity has fostered a warm, welcoming atmosphere that reflects both Scottish and Italian heritage. The cafe’s reputation is built on its classic fish and chips, prepared with fresh fish and a crispy batter that locals and visitors alike cherish. Over the years, Palmerston has become synonymous with quality and friendly service, making it a go-to spot for comfort food in the region.A Menu Bridging Two Culinary Worlds
While best known for its traditional British fast food, Palmerston Cafe also celebrates Italian culinary influences. The menu features freshly made pizzas, savory pies, hot and cold rolls, and robust Lavazza coffee, catering to a wide range of tastes. One of the cafe’s standout offerings is its impressive array of over 50 Italian-style ice cream flavors, adding a sweet and colorful dimension to the dining experience. This fusion of hearty Scottish fare and Italian treats creates a unique culinary identity.Atmosphere and Setting
Located at 68 Glasgow Street, the cafe provides a casual and comfortable environment with seating for approximately 30 people. Its interior blends a 1950s diner vibe with a family-friendly ambiance, making it suitable for solo diners, couples, and families. The cafe’s approachable style is complemented by free off-street parking and free Wi-Fi, enhancing convenience for guests. Whether dining in or taking away, the service is noted for being warm and attentive.Community and Accessibility
Palmerston Cafe enjoys a convenient location just a five-minute walk from Dumfries town centre, Palmerston Park QOS, and the Dumfries Ice Bowl, making it an accessible stop for locals and tourists exploring the area. The cafe operates daily from 10:30 AM to 10:00 PM, ensuring ample opportunity to enjoy its offerings throughout the day and into the evening. Payment options include cash and major credit cards, and the venue supports table service alongside takeout.Distinctive Features and Visitor Experience
The cafe’s blend of Scottish and Italian culinary traditions, combined with its long-standing family ownership, gives it a distinctive charm. Visitors can indulge in award-winning fish and chips, savor freshly brewed coffee, and delight in a vast selection of ice creams. The lively yet relaxed setting encourages lingering over meals or grabbing a quick bite, making Palmerston Cafe a versatile and beloved fixture in Dumfries’ food scene.Legacy and Local Love
Palmerston Cafe’s enduring popularity is a testament to its commitment to quality and community. It stands as a culinary landmark that honors tradition while inviting new generations to experience a taste of Dumfries’ diverse food culture. The cafe’s story is one of family dedication, regional pride, and a passion for good food served with genuine hospitality.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Queensberry Monument
0.6 km
An elegant 18th-century stone column in Dumfries honoring the 3rd Duke of Queensberry and the town’s noble heritage.
Dumfries Historic Buildings Trust
0.7 km
Discover the architectural heritage of Dumfries at the Dumfries Historic Buildings Trust, where history is preserved for future generations.
Dumfries
1.0 km
Historic and accessible Dumfries Railway Station connects Scotland’s southwest with modern amenities and rich heritage.
Dumfries Tours
1.8 km
Explore Dumfries with immersive tours that blend history, culture, and stunning landscapes for an unforgettable experience.
Kingdom Scotland
4.3 km
Discover tranquility at Kingdom Scotland, a serene religious institution in Dumfries that invites spiritual reflection and community connection.
Fourmerkland Tower
7.4 km
Discover the tranquil charm and rich history of Fourmerkland Tower, a secluded 16th-century Scottish tower house near Dumfries.
Comyn's Tower
8.1 km
Explore Comyn's Tower near Dumfries, a medieval stronghold entwined with Scotland’s dramatic history and the legacy of the Comyn clan.
Isle Tower
9.5 km
Explore Isle Tower, a serene 17th-century Scottish tower house ruin guarding historic routes near Dumfries in picturesque Dumfries and Galloway.
Waterloo Monument
10.7 km
A 150-foot stone tower on Peniel Heugh, built to commemorate the Battle of Waterloo and offering panoramic views across the Scottish Borders and Solway Firth.
Wardlaw Hillfort
11.1 km
Explore the ancient moated triangular hillfort near Dumfries with panoramic views and rich prehistoric heritage.
Little Dalton Kirk
12.3 km
Discover the evocative ruins of Little Dalton Kirk, a medieval parish church nestled in tranquil Scottish countryside near Lockerbie.
Mossband Residential Park
13.5 km
Tranquil rural living with modern comforts and scenic views near Dumfries in the heart of Scotland’s countryside.
Drumlanrig Castle & Gardens
25.7 km
Explore the stunning Drumlanrig Castle & Gardens, a historical gem in Scotland boasting art, beautiful gardens, and rich heritage.
Orchardton Tower
25.9 km
Discover Scotland’s only free-standing circular tower house, a rare medieval fortress steeped in history and legend near Castle Douglas.
Threave Garden
26.4 km
Discover the tranquility and beauty of Threave Garden, a botanical paradise in Castle Douglas, Scotland, perfect for nature lovers and tranquility seekers.
Unmissable attractions to see
Devorgilla Bridge
0.3 km
Explore the captivating Devorgilla Bridge, an architectural masterpiece and historical landmark nestled in the heart of Dumfries, Scotland.
Old Bridge House
0.3 km
Explore Dumfries’ oldest house ingeniously built into a historic bridge, revealing centuries of local life and heritage by the River Nith.
HMP Dumfries
0.4 km
Historic 19th-century prison in Dumfries serving local courts and national sex offender population with a unique castellated architecture.
Robert Burns Statue
0.5 km
A majestic marble tribute to Robert Burns, standing proudly in Dumfries’ historic Burns Statue Square.
VisitScotland Dumfries iCentre
0.5 km
Friendly and knowledgeable visitor centre offering expert local advice and resources in the heart of Dumfries.
Robert Burns Centre
0.5 km
Discover the life and legacy of Robert Burns in Dumfries’ historic watermill, featuring immersive exhibits and a vibrant independent film theatre.
Dumfries Museum
0.6 km
Explore Dumfries’ rich heritage and the world’s oldest working camera obscura in this captivating museum of history and science.
Dumfries Fountain
0.6 km
Discover the Dumfries Fountain, a stunning historical landmark in Dumfries, showcasing the town's rich culture and architectural beauty.
Cuckoo Bridge Retail Park
0.7 km
Dumfries’ main retail park with Tesco Extra, B&M, Dunelm, KFC, Costa and more – a practical, car‑friendly hub for everyday shopping and essentials.
Robert Burns House
0.8 km
Explore the intimate final home of Robert Burns in Dumfries, where Scotland’s national poet lived, wrote, and left a lasting legacy.
Dock Park
1.0 km
Historic riverside park in Dumfries with family-friendly play, mini-golf, bowling, and scenic picnic spots beside the River Nith.
St Michael’s and South Parish Church
1.0 km
Discover Dumfries’ oldest church, a historic landmark rich with medieval pillars, stunning stained glass, and the Burns’ Mausoleum.
Burns Mausoleum
1.1 km
Final resting place of Robert Burns in a historic Dumfries churchyard, surrounded by centuries of Scottish stories and monuments.
Lincluden Collegiate Church
1.7 km
Explore the hauntingly beautiful ruins of Lincluden Collegiate Church, a masterpiece of Scottish Gothic architecture and noble heritage.
Lockerbie Road off-road driving course
1.8 km
Experience the thrill of off-road driving on varied terrain with expert guidance at Dumfries’ premier off-road course.
Essential places to dine
Palmerston Cafe
0.0 km
A family-run Dumfries classic serving award-winning fish & chips and authentic Italian ice cream since 1969.
Cavens Arms
0.2 km
A welcoming Dumfries pub offering hearty traditional fare, a dedicated vegan menu, and a friendly atmosphere in the town centre.
Ivanos Italian Food
0.2 km
Casual Italian takeaway and pizza delivery in Dumfries, serving authentic flavors with a friendly local touch.
The New Oriental Restaurant
0.4 km
Authentic Chinese dining in the heart of Dumfries, known for fresh ingredients and friendly service in a cozy setting.
Home Restaurant
0.4 km
A cozy family-run restaurant in Dumfries serving creative, locally sourced Mediterranean-inspired dishes with heartfelt hospitality.
N'Dulge
0.5 km
Discover N'Dulge: A lively bar & grill in Dumfries serving delicious meals and refreshing drinks in an inviting atmosphere.
The Bank Bar and Tapas
0.5 km
A vibrant, fully gluten-free tapas bar in Dumfries blending international flavors with a lively social atmosphere and inclusive dining.
The Back Street
0.5 km
A vibrant hub for modern British cuisine and local drinks in the heart of Dumfries town centre, blending passion with a welcoming atmosphere.
The Corner Eatery and Bar Store
0.5 km
A vibrant eatery in Dumfries serving fresh, homemade British cuisine with a welcoming atmosphere and a charming beer garden.
La Dolce Vita
0.5 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Dumfries at La Dolce Vita, a charming and inclusive dining destination.
Truffles Bistro
0.5 km
Sophisticated yet cozy, Truffles Bistro in Dumfries serves exquisite local and international dishes in an inviting atmosphere.
Granary
0.7 km
A vibrant Dumfries pub blending cozy dining, lively weekend entertainment, and community spirit in a welcoming setting.
The Globe Inn Dumfries
0.7 km
Historic 17th-century pub and Michelin Guide dining in Dumfries, blending Robert Burns heritage with modern Scottish cuisine and an extensive whisky collection.
The Usual Place
0.7 km
A charming, community-focused café in a converted church offering fresh, ethical meals and warm hospitality in Dumfries.
The Station Cafe Dumfries
1.0 km
A friendly, affordable cafe nestled in Dumfries Railway Station, perfect for a comforting breakfast or coffee break on your travels.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Unique Ukes in Dumfries
0.3 km
Discover handcrafted ukuleles and a vibrant music community at Unique Ukes, Dumfries’ premier ukulele shop on Gordon Street.
20 Castle Street
0.4 km
Discover unique gifts and timeless antiques with expert interior design at 20 Castle Street, nestled in the historic heart of Dumfries.
Circle Vintage
0.4 km
Explore the charm of Circle Vintage in Dumfries, your destination for unique and timeless fashion finds that celebrate the beauty of the past.
The Treasure Trove Dumfries
0.4 km
Discover unique Scottish gifts and artisan treasures in the heart of Dumfries at The Treasure Trove.
Vintage 109
0.5 km
Discover Vintage 109, a cozy Dumfries boutique brimming with unique, well-priced vintage and handcrafted homewares that add charm to any space.
ALTERNATIVE CENTRE(DUMFRIES)
0.5 km
Discover unique local crafts and memorable gifts at Dumfries’ welcoming Alternative Centre on Queensberry Street.
La Maison Home & Gifts
0.6 km
Discover unique homewares and gifts with a personal touch at La Maison, Dumfries’ boutique of curated elegance and local charm.
Flourish
0.6 km
Discover unique handcrafted gifts and local art at Flourish, Dumfries’ vibrant gift shop and creative studio on High Street.
Mountain Warehouse Dumfries
0.6 km
Your go-to store in Dumfries for quality outdoor clothing and gear at moderate prices, catering to adventurers of all ages and skill levels.
Loreburne Shopping Centre
0.7 km
A vibrant indoor shopping destination in the heart of Dumfries, blending high street brands with local charm and convenient amenities.
The Fragrance Shop
0.7 km
Discover affordable luxury perfumes and beauty essentials at The Fragrance Shop, Dumfries’ premier scent destination in the Lorebourne Centre.
Bonmarché
0.7 km
Affordable and stylish ladies' fashion in the heart of Dumfries, with sizes 10-28 and expert styling advice.
Think Something Different
0.7 km
Discover unique gifts and specialty products at Think Something Different, Dumfries’ go-to shop for eclectic finds and friendly service.
Next
0.8 km
Trendy and spacious Next clothing store in Dumfries’ Cuckoo Bridge Retail Park, offering stylish fashion for all ages and occasions.
Plum Boutique
0.8 km
Independent women-owned fashion boutique in Dumfries offering curated, sustainable wardrobe staples and seasonal styles with a personal touch.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Salutation Inn
0.2 km
A friendly, historic pub in Dumfries Market Square known for excellent pints and a welcoming atmosphere.
Devorgilla Lounge Bar
0.2 km
A cozy, dog-friendly lounge bar in Dumfries offering friendly service, relaxed vibes, and affordable drinks in the heart of Market Square.
The Dougie Arms
0.4 km
A cosy, welcoming pub in Dumfries known for its diverse ales, friendly atmosphere, and inclusive community spirit.
The Venue Dumfries
0.5 km
A vibrant hub for live music, nightlife, and social gatherings in the heart of Dumfries.
Coach & Horses Inn
0.5 km
Historic 1801 pub in Dumfries offering authentic Scottish charm, quality cask ales, and lively live music in a welcoming atmosphere.
Hole I' The Wa' Inn
0.5 km
A historic and lively Dumfries pub offering authentic Scottish charm, good-value drinks, hearty food, and a welcoming community atmosphere.
The Stag Bar
0.6 km
A cozy, friendly pub in Dumfries’ town centre offering craft ales and a welcoming atmosphere near the historic Midsteeple.
The Imperial
0.6 km
A friendly, fair-priced bar in the heart of Dumfries, perfect for relaxed socializing and local vibes.
Chancers Night Club
0.6 km
Experience Dumfries nightlife at Chancers Night Club, where vibrant music and a lively atmosphere create unforgettable nights.
The Barrel
0.7 km
A friendly, traditional pub in Dumfries offering quality pints and a lively, welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
The Queensberry
0.7 km
A bright, comfortable bar and hotel in central Dumfries offering relaxed Scottish hospitality and cozy accommodation.
Dickies Bar
0.7 km
Experience warm Scottish hospitality and local craft beers in the cozy, lively setting of Dickies Bar in Dumfries.
The Lantern
0.8 km
A friendly, dog-welcoming pub in Dumfries offering affordable drinks, live music, and a lively beer garden in a warm, traditional setting.
Troqueer Arms
1.0 km
A welcoming traditional pub in Dumfries offering great drinks, live music, and authentic Scottish charm at an affordable price.
Greens Sports Bar
1.1 km
Lively sports bar in Dumfries with big screens, great drinks, pool tables, and a welcoming community vibe for fans and locals alike.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Railway Social Club
1.0 km
A friendly, community-focused social club in Dumfries offering affordable drinks, lively events, and a welcoming atmosphere near the town centre.
Black Box Music Institute
47.5 km
An intimate old-style nightclub and cultural hub in Carlisle offering live music, festivals, and art exhibitions in a vibrant setting.
Carlisle R A O B Club
47.6 km
Historic social club in Carlisle offering lively events and a welcoming atmosphere rooted in the Royal Antediluvian Order of Buffaloes tradition.
Club Britannia
47.9 km
A vibrant social club in Carlisle offering live music, friendly vibes, and affordable drinks in a smart, welcoming setting.
Secret Carlisle
48.2 km
Experience energetic nights and vibrant music at Secret Carlisle, the city centre nightclub where Carlisle’s historic charm meets modern nightlife.
The Galloway Bar
57.2 km
Discover the charm of Wigtown at The Galloway Bar, where locals gather for great drinks and unforgettable experiences.
Square One
65.5 km
Vibrant Hawick nightclub with dynamic music floors and a welcoming atmosphere at the heart of Drumlanrig Square.
Base Nightclub
65.9 km
Experience Hawick’s energetic nightlife at Base Nightclub, where vibrant music and lively crowds create unforgettable Friday nights.
The Border Club
66.2 km
Experience the vibrant local culture at The Border Club, a friendly social hub in Hawick, Scotland, perfect for travelers seeking community spirit.
Bridge Inn
70.0 km
Discover the scenic beauty and warm hospitality at Bridge Inn, Peebles' favorite pub overlooking the River Tweed.
The Neidpath Inn
70.1 km
Discover The Neidpath Inn, a vibrant bar and bed & breakfast in Peebles, offering delicious cuisine, live music, and a cozy atmosphere for all visitors.
The County
70.1 km
A lively, dog-friendly pub and restaurant in Peebles offering hearty meals, great drinks, and warm Scottish hospitality in a central setting.
The Central Bar
70.2 km
Experience the heart of Peebles at The Central Bar, where local charm and refreshing drinks await every visitor.
Union Club
70.3 km
A friendly, community-run social club with snooker and events, offering a welcoming and affordable night out in Innerleithen.
The Cross Keys - Peebles
70.3 km
Historic inn and cozy hotel in Peebles town centre, blending traditional charm with modern comfort and a lively pub atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Casual
- Lively
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Retro Vibes
For the architecture buff
- Historic
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Instagrammable
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
