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The Old Kiln Café at Ardbeg Distillery

Cozy café at Ardbeg Distillery serving hearty Scottish fare and home-baked treats amid iconic whisky heritage.

4.4

Nestled within the iconic Ardbeg Distillery on the Isle of Islay, The Old Kiln Café offers visitors a cozy spot to enjoy hearty, home-cooked meals and local flavors. Open weekdays from 10am to 3:30pm during the main season, the café serves a daily-changing menu featuring Scottish classics like smoked haddock chowder, steak pie, and sticky toffee pudding. Its intimate setting complements the rich whisky heritage surrounding it, making it a must-visit for food lovers and whisky enthusiasts alike.

A brief summary to The Old Kiln Cafe

  • Isle of Islay, Ardbeg, PA42 7EA, GB
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Indoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Monday 10 am-3:30 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-3:30 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-3:30 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-3:30 pm
  • Friday 10 am-3:30 pm

Local tips

  • Arrive early to avoid waiting as seating is limited and the café can get busy during lunchtime.
  • Try the smoked haddock chowder or sticky toffee pudding for a true taste of Scottish comfort food.
  • Visit during July to October when both the indoor café and the outdoor Ardstream trailer are open.
  • Group bookings for 10 or more are accepted by prior arrangement; otherwise, walk-ins only.
  • Pair your meal with a whisky tasting at the distillery for a full Ardbeg experience.
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Discover more about The Old Kiln Cafe

A Culinary Haven Amidst Whisky Heritage

The Old Kiln Café is situated inside the visitor centre of the renowned Ardbeg Distillery, a historic whisky producer on the southern coast of the Isle of Islay. The café provides a warm and inviting atmosphere where guests can indulge in freshly prepared, home-cooked meals that reflect the rich culinary traditions of Scotland. The menu changes daily but regularly includes comforting dishes such as classic smoked haddock chowder, hearty steak pie, mac and cheese with BBQ chicken, and traditional desserts like sticky toffee pudding and clootie dumpling. This blend of hearty fare and sweet treats perfectly complements the peaty aromas and flavors of Ardbeg’s celebrated whiskies.

Setting and Ambience

The café occupies a charming space within the distillery complex, offering a relaxed and intimate environment for visitors to unwind. Seating is somewhat limited, which adds to the cozy feel but can lead to waits during peak lunchtime hours. During the warmer months, visitors can also enjoy alfresco dining in the distillery courtyard via the Ardstream food trailer, which serves soups, deli-style sandwiches, hot dishes, and home-baked goods. The café’s connection to the distillery means that the air is often filled with the distinctive peat smoke scent, enhancing the sensory experience.

Connection to Ardbeg Distillery's Legacy

Ardbeg Distillery, founded over 200 years ago, is famed for producing some of the peatiest single malt whiskies in Scotland, winning numerous awards globally. The Old Kiln Café complements this legacy by offering a taste of the local culture and hospitality. Visitors can enjoy a meal that pairs well with the distillery’s whiskies, making it an integral part of the Ardbeg visitor experience. The café operates mainly from Monday to Friday, 10am to 3:30pm, aligning with the distillery’s visitor centre hours.

Visitor Experience and Practicalities

The café welcomes visitors seeking a break during distillery tours or those exploring the Isle of Islay’s whisky trail. While the menu is somewhat limited, the quality and flavor of the dishes are highly regarded. The café accepts credit cards and offers vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, catering to diverse dietary needs. Due to its popularity and limited seating, early arrival is recommended, especially during the busy summer months. Group bookings are accepted for parties of ten or more by prior arrangement.

Seasonal Operations and Additional Offerings

The Old Kiln Café operates seasonally, primarily from July through October, with some variations in service hours. Outside peak season, the Ardstream trailer provides outdoor dining options. The café serves morning coffee and home baking from 10am to noon, with lunches and afternoon teas available until 3:30pm. This schedule allows visitors to enjoy a leisurely meal or snack while soaking in the unique atmosphere of the distillery grounds.

Complementary Amenities and Surroundings

Located within the distillery visitor centre, the café benefits from amenities such as restrooms, seating areas, and an adjacent shop offering Ardbeg merchandise and whisky tastings. The setting on the rugged Islay coastline provides scenic views and a refreshing sea breeze, enhancing the overall visitor experience. The Old Kiln Café is a highlight for those combining culinary delight with cultural and whisky heritage exploration on Islay.

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