Best Restaurants in Ross-shire
Hungry in Ross-shire? Explore top-rated restaurants with menus, reviews, and local recommendations. Open the free web guide or Evendo app.
The best restaurants in Ross-shire
- Top rated
- Closest to the centre
- Price level: low to high
- Time to spend: shortest first
- A–Z
31 restaurants
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Modern European4.5★2,963 reviews
The Mustard Seed Restaurant
The Mustard Seed Restaurant in Inverness offers a modern European dining experience in a stylish, relaxed setting overlooking the River Ness. Known for its fresh, locally sourced ingredients and a menu that changes regularly, it combines Scottish culinary traditions with contemporary flair. The welcoming atmosphere, attentive service, and scenic location make it a favored spot for both locals and visitors seeking quality food at moderate prices.
Daily 12:00–14:30, 17:00–21:15Price level $$Time to spend 1–2.5 hrs
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Restaurant4.5★2,334 reviews
The Dores Inn
The Dores Inn is a charming pub and restaurant located on the shores of Loch Ness near Inverness, Scotland. Renowned for its stunning loch views and relaxed atmosphere, it offers a moderate-priced menu with classic pub fare. Visitors enjoy the spacious outdoor seating, including covered areas, making it a perfect spot to unwind while soaking in the tranquil Highland scenery.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
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Restaurant4.6★1,926 reviews
The Storehouse
Nestled on the shores of the Cromarty Firth near Evanton in the Scottish Highlands, The Storehouse offers a welcoming restaurant experience renowned for its fresh, locally sourced food and stunning views across the water to the Black Isle. Alongside its varied menu featuring excellent breakfast, lunch, and supper options, it boasts a farm shop filled with local produce and a charming gift shop. With indoor and outdoor seating, including scenic spots for warmer days, The Storehouse is a delightful stop for food lovers and shoppers alike.
Mon–Sat 9:00–17:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
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Restaurant4.4★1,701 reviews
The Old Bridge Inn
Nestled on the banks of the River Spey in Aviemore, The Old Bridge Inn is a cosy gastro pub housed in an old gamekeeper’s cottage. It offers hearty Scottish dishes, real ales, live music, and a warm Highland atmosphere perfect for post-adventure gatherings. Dog-friendly lounge with wood-burning stove, seasonal menu featuring local produce, vegan options, and cocktails. Open daily from noon, with lunch and dinner service.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
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Modern British4.4★1,371 reviews
The Kitchen Restaurant
Perched on Huntly Street with sweeping views over the River Ness, The Kitchen Restaurant in Inverness offers refined Modern British cuisine in an elegant, contemporary setting. Known for its beautifully presented dishes, attentive service, and a menu that highlights local Scottish ingredients, it’s a standout dining destination in the city centre. Whether enjoying lunch with a river vista or a romantic dinner, the restaurant combines style, flavour, and a relaxed yet polished atmosphere.
Mon 12:00–13:45, 17:00–21:00 · Thu–Sun 12:00–13:45, 17:00–21:00Price level $$Time to spend 1.5–3 hrs
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Restaurant4.7★1,171 reviews
Crofters
Crofters is a welcoming café and restaurant located on Marine Terrace in Rosemarkie, Fortrose, offering stunning sea views and a menu featuring fresh seafood, hearty British fare, and vegan options. Known for its cozy atmosphere and community feel, it serves illy coffee alongside homemade cakes and desserts, making it a perfect spot for casual dining or a relaxing coffee break by the sea.
Price level $$Time to spend 0.5–2 hrs
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Restaurant4.7★1,016 reviews
Rocpool
Rocpool Restaurant, located on the scenic banks of the River Ness in Inverness, offers an elegant yet relaxed dining atmosphere with a focus on fresh Scottish ingredients and creative global flavors. Known for its attentive service, vibrant dishes such as Shetland monkfish with risotto, and a well-curated wine list, Rocpool blends local produce with international influences in a stylish brasserie setting. It is a popular choice for both locals and visitors seeking a memorable culinary experience in the Highlands.
Tue–Sat 12:00–14:30, 17:45–21:45Price level $$$Time to spend 1–2.5 hrs
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Seafood4.8★772 reviews
River House
River House is a renowned seafood restaurant in Inverness, celebrated for its exceptional local and sustainable seafood, especially oysters, served in an intimate riverside setting. Located at 1 Greig Street, it offers stunning views of the River Ness and Inverness Castle, combining elegant décor with warm, attentive service. Open Tuesday to Saturday evenings, it is a must-visit for seafood lovers seeking a refined dining experience in the Scottish Highlands.
Tue–Sat 15:00–23:30Price level $$$Time to spend 1.5–2.5 hrs
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Restaurant4.4★878 reviews
The White House
Located on Union Street in Inverness, The White House is a vibrant restaurant known for its creative menu featuring fresh, locally inspired dishes. With a lively yet welcoming atmosphere, it offers generous portions and a unique charity initiative called 'Invisible Fries.' Open daily from 10 AM to 11 PM, it blends modern dining with community spirit in Scotland’s Highland capital.
Daily 10:00–23:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–2.5 hrs
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Restaurant4.6★787 reviews
The Chlachain Inn
Nestled in the picturesque harbor village of Mallaig, The Chlachain Inn is a welcoming family-run pub, restaurant, and bed & breakfast. Renowned for its exceptional local seafood, hearty Scottish dishes, and cozy rooms, it offers a vibrant atmosphere with friendly service. Just steps from the train station, harbor, and shops, it's an ideal base for exploring the rugged West Highlands.
Price level $$Time to spend 1.5–24 hrs
Shieldaig Bar & Coastal Kitchen
Nestled in the picturesque village of Shieldaig on the shores of Loch Torridon, Shieldaig Bar & Coastal Kitchen offers a warm Highland welcome with stunning waterfront views and a menu focused on fresh, locally sourced seafood and Highland produce. This cosy restaurant and bar is a highlight for North Coast 500 travellers, serving dishes like lobster, langoustines, and venison alongside local ales and Scottish whiskies in a relaxed, inviting atmosphere.
Daily 11:00–23:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–2 hrs
Dalmore Farm Shop & Restaurant
Dalmore Farm Shop & Restaurant in Alness offers a charming blend of farm-fresh produce, delightful dining, and scenic Highland views. This family-friendly destination features a spacious restaurant serving home-cooked breakfasts, lunches, and freshly baked cakes, alongside a well-stocked farm shop and gift store. Visitors can enjoy panoramic vistas of the Cromarty Firth and surrounding landscapes while relaxing in indoor or outdoor seating areas.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Urquhart's Restaurant
Urquhart's Restaurant is a charming family-run eatery located at 2 Young Street in Inverness, Scotland. Known for its hearty Scottish and European cuisine, it offers freshly made home-cooked dishes in a cozy, unpretentious setting. The restaurant is praised for generous portions, excellent value, and friendly service, making it a popular choice for both locals and visitors seeking authentic flavors in the city centre.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–2 hrs
IV10 Cafe Bar Deli
Located at 18 High Street in Fortrose, IV10 Cafe Bar Deli is a lively, family-friendly café, bar, and deli known for its innovative menu inspired by the Scottish Highlands’ rural and coastal surroundings. Open Wednesday to Saturday, it offers fresh, seasonal dishes, sharing plates, and a welcoming atmosphere with indoor and outdoor seating. The venue features a full bar, caters to various dietary needs, and is celebrated for its warm service and quality food.
Wed–Thu 10:00–16:00 · Fri–Sat 10:00–23:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Fig & Thistle
Fig & Thistle is a modern Scottish bistro located in the heart of Inverness, offering a cozy and intimate dining experience with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Open daily for lunch and dinner, it serves a diverse menu featuring Scottish and European cuisine, including vegetarian and vegan options, all crafted with care and excellent service in a boutique setting.
Daily 12:00–21:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–2.5 hrs
The Waterside Restaurant
Nestled on the banks of the River Ness in Inverness, The Waterside Restaurant offers a scenic dining experience featuring sustainably sourced Scottish cuisine. Known for its riverside views, locally inspired menu, and commitment to ethical food practices, this four-star venue pairs exceptional dishes with handcrafted spirits from the adjacent Uile-bheist Distillery. Open daily for lunch and dinner, it blends a welcoming atmosphere with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Daily 12:00–14:30, 17:00–21:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–2.5 hrs
Contrast Brasserie Inverness
Contrast Brasserie is an award-winning restaurant housed within the luxury Glenmoriston Townhouse Hotel on the banks of the River Ness in central Inverness. The brasserie showcases Scottish and Pan-Asian cuisine crafted from locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. Set in an elegant riverside setting with views across the water, it combines contemporary style with warm hospitality. The restaurant serves lunch and dinner daily, offering both casual dining and fine dining experiences. Its reputation for quality cuisine and attentive service has earned it recognition in major travel guides.
Mon–Sat 12:00–14:30, 17:00–22:00 · Sun 13:00–22:00Price level $$Time to spend 1.5–3 hrs
McBain’s by the River
McBain’s by the River is a charming, family-run restaurant located on Bank Street in Inverness, offering an intimate dining experience with stunning views of the River Ness. Renowned for its use of locally sourced Highland produce, the menu features expertly crafted dishes such as tender venison and fresh seafood, complemented by attentive service and a warm atmosphere. Ideal for food allergy sufferers and lovers of fine Scottish cuisine, McBain’s blends tradition with modern flavors in a cozy riverside setting.
Tue–Sat 12:00–14:30, 17:30–22:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–2.5 hrs
Torrish at Ness Walk
Torrish at Ness Walk is a distinguished fine dining restaurant located within the luxurious 5-star Ness Walk Hotel in Inverness. Renowned for its innovative Scottish cuisine crafted from locally foraged and seasonal ingredients, Torrish offers a refined yet relaxed atmosphere with attentive service. Guests can enjoy a thoughtfully curated menu, including a separate vegan selection, all presented with artistic flair in a beautiful riverside setting.
Daily 17:00–21:30Price level $$$Time to spend 1–2.5 hrs
Culloden House Hotel
A grand Palladian mansion set within 40 acres of woodland and manicured gardens near Inverness, Culloden House blends 18th-century heritage with contemporary luxury. Built in 1730 and famously used by Bonnie Prince Charlie as his headquarters before the 1746 battle, this intimate 27-room hotel delivers fine dining, impeccable service, and an atmosphere steeped in Scottish Highland history. Located just minutes from Culloden Battlefield and the city centre, it offers an elegant retreat for discerning travellers seeking authentic Highland hospitality.
Price level $$$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Gille Brighde Restaurant
Nestled in the tiny lochside hamlet of Lower Diabaig, Gille Brighde Restaurant offers a unique dining experience with stunning views over Loch Torridon. Housed in a converted old schoolhouse, this seasonal restaurant is renowned for its fresh, locally sourced seafood and creative dishes served with warm Highland hospitality. Its remote setting, surrounded by rugged landscapes and the wild beauty of Scotland’s northwest, makes it a memorable destination for food lovers seeking tranquility and authenticity.
Wed–Sat 12:00–20:00 · Sun 12:00–16:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–2 hrs
Culbokie Inn on NC500
Nestled in the village of Culbokie along the scenic North Coast 500 route, the Culbokie Inn offers a cozy, inviting atmosphere with a diverse menu featuring Scottish classics and modern dishes. Known for its friendly service and quality ingredients, this moderate-priced inn is a favorite stop for locals and travelers seeking hearty meals and a warm Highland welcome.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–2.5 hrs
Lochcarron Bistro - Restaurant & Gift Shop
Lochcarron Bistro is a warmly inviting restaurant and gift shop located on Main Street in the scenic village of Lochcarron, Strathcarron. Known for its intimate one-man open kitchen, it serves freshly prepared, seasonal menus with a focus on local provenance. The bistro offers a cozy atmosphere perfect for enjoying modern Scottish cuisine alongside views of the loch, making it a beloved spot for both locals and visitors seeking authentic Highland hospitality.
Wed–Sat 17:00–22:30 · Sun 16:00–21:30Price level $$Time to spend 1–2.5 hrs
Salt’N’Fire
Tucked inside Inverness’s Victorian Market, Salt'N'Fire is the UK’s first exclusively vegan takeaway, serving bold, globally inspired street food. Think falafel with tahini, miso aubergine, kimchi wontons and loaded dirty fries, all crafted by classically trained chefs. The compact counter is perfect for a quick, flavour-packed lunch or dinner, with a relaxed, modern vibe and a strong focus on plant-based creativity.
Price level $$Time to spend 0.5–1.5 hrs
The Boathouse Restaurant Loch Insh
Perched on the tranquil shores of Loch Insh in the Cairngorms National Park, The Boathouse Restaurant offers hearty Highland and Alpine-inspired dishes in a warm, welcoming setting. With panoramic views across the loch and mountains, it’s a perfect spot for breakfast, lunch, or dinner after outdoor adventures. Locally sourced ingredients, a relaxed family-friendly atmosphere, and a bar showing major sports events make it a popular choice for visitors and locals alike.
Daily 9:00–22:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Ozzy's Fine Dining Restaurant
Ozzy's Fine Dining Restaurant in Nairn showcases the culinary vision of chef Ozzy, who blends traditional Scottish cuisine with Kurdish influences to create distinctive, meticulously prepared dishes. Located on High Street in this charming Highland town, the restaurant features an open kitchen where diners can watch the chef at work. The intimate setting combines chic contemporary design with traditional warmth, offering an upscale dining experience centred on quality ingredients, creative technique, and genuine hospitality. Known for exceptional service and the chef's personal attention to guests, Ozzy's has become a destination restaurant for those seeking refined, flavourful cuisine in the Scottish Highlands.
Tue–Sat 12:00–23:00 · Sun 12:00–18:00Price level $$$Time to spend 1.5–3 hrs
The Anchorage Bistro
The Anchorage Bistro in Tarbert is a celebrated seafood restaurant renowned for its fresh, locally sourced Scottish shellfish and fish dishes. Nestled on Harbour Street, it offers a cozy, intimate dining atmosphere with a focus on modern Scottish bistro cuisine. The menu features a variety of seafood specialties alongside vegetarian-friendly options, all crafted with European influences and a dedication to quality.
Thu–Sat 17:00–21:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–2 hrs
Meikle Ferry Station
Meikle Ferry Station is a charming café-restaurant in a renovated 19th-century railway station on Scotland's NC500 route near Tain. Enjoy traditional Scottish fare with local ingredients, vegetarian and vegan options, in a family- and dog-friendly setting with gift shop and beer garden. Perfect roadside stop between Tain and Dornoch, offering home baking, table service, and scenic Highland vibes.
Mon–Thu 10:00–15:00 · Fri–Sat 10:00–21:00Price level $Time to spend 0.5–2 hrs
Ash
Ash is a contemporary cocktail bar and bistro located in Inverness city centre, offering Scottish-inspired cuisine in a stylishly designed dining space. The restaurant features a varied menu with vegetarian and vegan options, craft cocktails, and wine selections. Housed on Academy Street near the train station, it combines modern aesthetics with Georgian influences, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors seeking upscale casual dining in the Scottish Highlands.
Daily 0:00–22:00Price level $$Time to spend 1.5–3 hrs
The Struy Inn (Casa Mia)
Nestled in the tranquil Highland village of Struy near Beauly, Casa Mia at The Struy Inn offers an intimate dining experience within a traditional 19th-century country pub. With just five tables, this cosy restaurant blends Scottish seasonal produce with Argentinian culinary influences, creating a unique fusion menu. The welcoming bar, featuring a wood-burning stove, complements the warm atmosphere, making it a perfect retreat for food lovers exploring the scenic glens nearby.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–2.5 hrs
The Dipping Lugger
Perched on Ullapool’s waterfront in an elegant 18th-century former manse, The Dipping Lugger is a Michelin-recognized fine-dining restaurant with rooms. Chef David Smith crafts inventive tasting menus showcasing hyper-local seafood and game, served in a small, intimate dining room with views over Loch Broom. The experience blends refined technique with warm, unpretentious hospitality, making it a standout culinary destination in the Scottish Highlands.
Wed 19:00–23:00 · Thu–Sat 12:30–14:00, 19:00–23:00Price level $$$Time to spend 2.5–4 hrs
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