Background

The Tolbooth Seafood Restaurant, Stonehaven Harbour

A refined seafood dining experience set in a historic harbourfront building with stunning North Sea views in Stonehaven.

4.6

Nestled on Stonehaven’s Old Pier, The Tolbooth Seafood Restaurant offers a refined dining experience focused on fresh, locally sourced seafood. Set in a charming historic building overlooking the harbour, it combines stylish interiors with an inviting atmosphere. Known for expertly prepared dishes like monkfish and crayfish mornay, it caters to seafood lovers seeking quality and ambiance in a scenic coastal setting.

A brief summary to The Tolbooth Seafood Restaurant

  • Harbour, Old Pier, Stonehaven, AB39 2JU, GB
  • +441569762287
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
  • Luxury
  • Environment icon Indoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Monday 12 pm-3 pm
  • Tuesday 12 pm-3 pm
  • Wednesday 12 pm-3 pm
  • Thursday 12 pm-3 pm
  • Friday 12 pm-3 pm
  • Saturday 12 pm-12 am
  • Sunday 12 pm-9 pm

Local tips

  • Book in advance, especially for weekend dinners, as the restaurant is popular and seating is limited.
  • Try signature dishes like monkfish or hake with crayfish mornay sauce for a true taste of local seafood.
  • Visit during high tide or on a full moon night to enjoy particularly atmospheric harbour views.
  • Note that portion sizes are moderate; consider ordering starters and desserts to complete your meal.
  • The restaurant maintains a calm ambiance with low-volume music and no pets, ideal for a peaceful dining experience.
widget icon

The Tolbooth Seafood Restaurant location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures
  • Weather icon Windy Conditions

Unlock the Best of The Tolbooth Seafood Restaurant

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about The Tolbooth Seafood Restaurant

A Historic Harbourfront Setting

The Tolbooth Seafood Restaurant occupies a distinctive position on Stonehaven’s Old Pier, right by the bustling harbour. The building itself carries the charm of a traditional Scottish coastal structure, blending rustic maritime character with modern touches. Its location provides stunning views over the North Sea, especially enchanting during high tide or under a full moon, creating an atmospheric backdrop for dining.

Seafood Excellence with Seasonal Flair

The restaurant’s culinary focus is on fresh, seasonal seafood sourced locally from the Aberdeenshire coast. Signature dishes include delicacies such as monkfish, hake with crayfish in seaweed mornay sauce, and sweet, spicy crab claws. The menu balances a curated selection of starters, mains, and desserts, emphasizing quality over quantity with thoughtfully portioned plates. The kitchen’s skillful preparation highlights the natural flavors of the sea, appealing to discerning palates.

Stylish Yet Welcoming Interior

Inside, The Tolbooth combines stylish design elements with a relaxed atmosphere. The décor features teal accents and well-considered lighting that complements the harbour views without feeling overly formal. The ambiance is enhanced by low-volume, tasteful music, ensuring a comfortable dining environment free from distractions. Cleanliness and attentive service contribute to a polished yet approachable experience.

Service and Dining Experience

Guests often note the professionalism and friendliness of the staff, who demonstrate good knowledge of the menu and local ingredients. While some diners find the portions modest relative to price, the overall quality and presentation maintain a fine dining standard. The absence of pets and a calm soundscape make it suitable for those seeking a peaceful meal by the sea.

Community and Culinary Reputation

The Tolbooth has earned a strong reputation among locals and visitors alike for its seafood offerings and harbourfront charm. It is a favored spot for special occasions, romantic dinners, and those wanting to savor authentic Scottish coastal cuisine. Its commitment to premium products and seasonal menus reflects the region’s rich maritime heritage.

Practical Details and Atmosphere

Open daily with lunch and dinner services, the restaurant welcomes guests year-round, adapting to the rhythms of the fishing season. Its location on the Old Pier makes it a scenic stop for travelers exploring Stonehaven’s historic harbour and coastal walks. The combination of excellent food, setting, and service creates a memorable dining destination on Scotland’s northeast coast.

Busiest months of the year

Busiest hours of the day

Popular Experiences near The Tolbooth Seafood Restaurant

Popular Hotels near The Tolbooth Seafood Restaurant

Select Currency