Inverness, often called the capital of the Scottish Highlands, is a city where tradition meets modernity, and this blend is beautifully reflected in its culinary scene. As a passionate food lover, I couldn’t wait to dive into the local cuisine and discover hidden gems in this charming city. From traditional Highland fare to contemporary dishes, Inverness is a food lover’s paradise. Here’s my detailed guide to the best restaurants and local delicacies you must try when visiting.
Traditional Highland Fare: A Taste of Scotland
Cullen Skink at The Mustard Seed
One of the first dishes I tried in Inverness was Cullen Skink, a traditional Scottish soup made with smoked haddock, potatoes, and onions. I visited The Mustard Seed, a riverside restaurant housed in a converted church with a cozy atmosphere.
The Cullen Skink here was exceptional—creamy, hearty, and packed with smoky flavors. Paired with freshly baked bread, it was the perfect starter on a chilly evening. The restaurant’s main courses, such as their lamb shank with root vegetables, also showcased Highland produce at its best.
Haggis, Neeps, and Tatties at The Castle Tavern
For an authentic taste of Scotland, I couldn’t miss trying haggis, neeps, and tatties—a dish comprising haggis (a savory pudding made of sheep’s pluck, oats, and spices), mashed turnips (neeps), and mashed potatoes (tatties).
The Castle Tavern, located near Inverness Castle, was my go-to spot for this iconic dish. Their haggis was rich and flavorful, perfectly complemented by the creamy tatties and slightly sweet neeps. I appreciated the option of a vegetarian haggis, which my companion enjoyed just as much.
Seafood Delights: Fresh from the Coast
Seafood Platter at The Kitchen Brasserie
Scotland is renowned for its seafood, and The Kitchen Brasserie did not disappoint. Situated by the River Ness, this modern restaurant offers stunning views alongside a menu that highlights local, sustainable ingredients.
I opted for their seafood platter, which included fresh oysters, mussels, langoustines, and smoked salmon. Each bite was a testament to the quality of Scotland’s waters. The oysters, served with a tangy shallot vinaigrette, were my personal favorite. If you’re a seafood lover like me, this is a must-visit spot.
Salmon at Rocpool Restaurant
No trip to the Highlands is complete without trying Scottish salmon. Rocpool Restaurant, a stylish eatery near the Ness Bridge, served one of the best salmon dishes I’ve ever had.
The dish featured perfectly pan-seared salmon with a crispy skin, served atop a bed of lemony risotto and accompanied by seasonal vegetables. The flavors were delicate yet bold, and the presentation was impeccable. I paired it with a glass of white wine, which elevated the meal even further.
Sweet Treats: Indulging in Desserts
Cranachan at Cafe 1
For a sweet treat, I indulged in cranachan, a traditional Scottish dessert made with whipped cream, honey, toasted oats, raspberries, and a splash of whisky.
Cafe 1, a family-run restaurant near the Inverness Cathedral, served a delightful version of this dessert. The cream was light and fluffy, the raspberries were fresh and tart, and the whisky added a warming kick. It was the perfect way to end a meal.
Scottish Tablet at Leakey’s Bookshop Cafe
Leakey’s Bookshop, known for its towering shelves of second-hand books, also has a quaint cafe where I tried Scottish tablet. This fudge-like confection, made with sugar, butter, and condensed milk, was sweet and crumbly—a nostalgic treat that pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee.
International Cuisine with a Highland Twist
Indian Dishes at Rajah
Inverness surprised me with its variety of international cuisines. At Rajah, one of the oldest Indian restaurants in Scotland, I found dishes infused with Highland ingredients.
Their venison curry was a standout, blending traditional Indian spices with the gamey richness of local venison. The staff were incredibly welcoming, and the cozy ambiance made this a memorable dining experience.
Italian Fare at Little Italy
Craving something European, I ventured into Little Italy, a charming Italian restaurant in the city center. Their seafood linguine, featuring local scallops and prawns, was a testament to how Inverness embraces global flavors while staying true to its roots.
Hidden Gems and Casual Eats
Cheese Toasties at Cheese & Tomatin
Sometimes, simple food hits the spot, and the gourmet cheese toasties at Cheese & Tomatin were exactly that. Located near the Inverness train station, this little cafe specializes in comfort food with a twist.
I tried their “Mac & Cheese Toastie,” stuffed with gooey macaroni and cheese. It was indulgent, cheesy, and utterly satisfying—a perfect quick bite for a busy day of exploring.
Scottish Pies at Duncan Fraser’s Butchers
For a more traditional snack, I stopped by Duncan Fraser’s, a family-run butcher shop. Their freshly baked Scotch pies and bridies (a type of meat pastry) were warm, flaky, and filled with flavorful meat. These handheld treats are ideal for picnics or on-the-go munching.
Drinks and Nightlife
Whisky Tasting at The Malt Room
No food guide to Inverness would be complete without mentioning whisky. The Malt Room, a cozy bar tucked away in the city center, offers an extensive selection of single malts from across Scotland.
I joined a whisky-tasting session where I sampled a flight of Highland whiskies. The knowledgeable staff explained the nuances of each, from the peaty notes of Islay to the smooth, honeyed flavors of Speyside. Pairing the whisky with a cheese platter added a delightful contrast to the experience.
Craft Beer at Black Isle Bar
For something a bit different, I visited the Black Isle Bar, known for its organic craft beers. The rooftop terrace was a lively spot to enjoy a pint of their “Red Kite Ale,” which had a perfect balance of maltiness and hops. The wood-fired pizzas here were also a hit, making this a great place to unwind after a day of sightseeing.
Farm-to-Table Experiences
Cafe Artysans
A meal at Cafe Artysans was one of the most heartwarming experiences of my trip. This social enterprise supports local youth by providing training and employment opportunities.
The food was equally impressive. I enjoyed a hearty plate of Highland beef stew, made with locally sourced ingredients. Knowing that my meal contributed to a meaningful cause added an extra layer of satisfaction.
Brodie Countryfare
Just outside Inverness, Brodie Countryfare is a must-visit for foodies. This store and cafe showcases the best of Highland produce, from artisan cheeses to homemade jams. I bought a selection of goodies to take home and enjoyed a delicious lunch of smoked salmon sandwiches in their cafe.
Inverness offers a culinary journey that reflects the rich heritage and natural bounty of the Highlands. Whether you’re indulging in traditional Scottish dishes, savoring fresh seafood, or exploring international flavors, the city’s food scene has something for every palate.
