Loch Ness Tastes: Top 5 Local Food & Drink Spots

Loch Ness, very famous for its elusive monster, also happens to be a treasure trove of culinary experiences. Beyond the beautiful scenery, you can almost smell some truly amazing food and drinks that reflect the Scottish Highlands. I mean, think fresh seafood, local game, and, of course, whisky! So, whether you’re trying to spot Nessie or just enjoy what Scotland has to offer, take some time to check out these top spots for an authentic taste of the Loch Ness area. Hopefully, you’re really hungry because here we go!

1. The Dores Inn: Lakeside Views and Hearty Fare

That place, The Dores Inn, it’s almost this really charming spot that sits right on the banks of Loch Ness. With outdoor seating and views that seem to stretch forever, this is a great place for a bite. You know, it has this incredibly relaxed vibe. So, after a day spent looking for Nessie or hiking through the countryside, it’s hard to imagine a better way to relax.

What’s actually on the menu? The Dores Inn specializes in hearty, traditional Scottish dishes that use locally sourced ingredients, in some respects. The seafood is especially great, sourced straight from the nearby coast. You might consider some Cullen skink, which could be this creamy smoked fish soup. That’s really traditional. Oh, or maybe some fresh grilled salmon. For something a bit heavier, give their venison stew a shot. It’s actually delicious, usually. Of course, you are going to need something to wash that food down! That spot actually has a very large selection of local beers and whiskies, that place does.

The pub has an excellent selection of local beers and whiskies, and The Dores Inn usually has a beer garden that leads directly onto the beach front where you can get unbeatable views, too it’s almost. Is that why this is a nice spot to pause and unwind for a bit while on your tour?

Read our full review: Dores Inn Loch Ness Full Review and Details. See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (The Dores Inn)

2. Fiddlers Highland Restaurant: Traditional Scottish with a Modern Twist

Fiddlers Highland Restaurant, very charming, it’s in the village of Drumnadrochit. That really nice village is sort of known for being the heart of Loch Ness monster hunting. I’m sure you can get some really tasty modern interpretations of regional favorites here. That place always feels both inviting and quite elegant at the same time, in my opinion. You might be after that traditional Scottish fare, but if you are into things that are a bit refined, this should be on your list of restaurants, in some respects.

That Fiddlers place, that’s really all about locally sourced food that they serve with a certain flair, I am saying. Try that smoked salmon that’s prepared with regional whisky. Too it’s almost this dish that brings together the iconic tastes of the Highlands. Another excellent main course option is the Scottish beef. Typically, that restaurant prepares the beef on top of haggis croquettes. Haggis is not for everyone, mind you! So, don’t just go ordering it without reading up first. Still, that particular dish shows off Scottish fare with a special twist. You will have plenty of local ales and single-malt whiskies that’ll actually complement what you eat there as well, you know.

Read our full review: Fiddlers Highland Restaurant Drumnadrochit Full Review and Details. See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Fiddlers Restaurant)

3. The Loch Ness Inn: Cosy Ambiance and Local Brews

Nestled in the pretty village of Lewiston, you should definitely check out The Loch Ness Inn if you ever find yourself on the hunt for the legendary Loch Ness Monster. This spot is one of those lovely places known for its warm, very friendly ambiance and tasty, satisfying meals. Think crackling fireplaces, comfy armchairs, and of course, that delicious aroma of Scottish cooking wafting from the kitchen.

They have what I call excellent pub fare on offer, often using only ingredients from the nearby area! Think some nice fish and chips made with super fresh haddock. Oh, I know! You might like some traditional shepherd’s pie with tender, local lamb. You should know that those who go for their hearty beef burgers seem to be really thrilled, in fact! It might be nice to sit and taste a bit of local flavor with some nice Scottish beers, some lovely single malt whiskeys, or some maybe just a plain old hot cup of tea. The Loch Ness Inn, they have a nice and wide selection, so really, just relax and sit!

Read our full review: Loch Ness Inn Lewiston Full Review and Details. See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (The Loch Ness Inn)

4. Urquhart Castle Cafe: History and Delicious Bites

Urquhart Castle is a famous site that’s on the shores of Loch Ness and so naturally a ton of tourists are almost always found on its property. But you probably never would have thought of it being somewhere that you could have an amazing meal, huh? The cafe offers up a selection of drinks and tasty food that features regional flavors. Eating lunch in sight of those centuries of Scottish history feels actually awesome. The ambiance? Quite majestic, that’s just my opinion, I suppose!

At the cafe there, which you find inside of that popular visitor center, is just fantastic. This isn’t really like those regular touristy places, no it isn’t. That particular place will impress you with lovely, freshly-made cakes and the light lunches that that castle produces every day! I suppose some hot soups that fill your soul could warm up a chilly afternoon on the shore of Loch Ness as well. Scones with clotted cream, well they taste as if they were created by angels themselves! Have you got kids who might be picky eaters? You shouldn’t worry, alright? I mean, I find that all cafés usually have something that suits everybody. Then maybe have that hot coffee after the meal and sit back looking at some breathtaking historical things while drinking, or, do whatever. You can easily get yourself something to remember. Then you go do all kinds of touring, which that Urquhart Castle offers!

Read our full review: Urquhart Castle Cafe Full Review and Details. See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Urquhart Castle)

5. The Clansman Hotel: Fine Dining with a Nessie View

Alright, so the Clansman Hotel has what I consider an amazing location! It overlooks Loch Ness itself. It has a well regarded restaurant which makes it quite an elegant and refined dining experience, it seems. This, actually, is great for a special meal with views of the beautiful surroundings there. Hopefully, you’ll have this excellent food along with this great ambiance!

About this food there… Their chefs specialize mostly in local dishes and often, they feature some regional ingredients that may even give you an amazing sampling of tastes from the Scottish Highlands! The menus often will vary due to what is in season, and this gives everyone an excellent opportunity to have uniquely special and yummy meals when one chooses to visit. In general, those who might be seafood lovers, beef aficionados, or dessert fanatics should all find something very great. This restaurant also features some amazing and perfectly-paired malt whiskies from Scotland too! Just stop by there and you should enjoy yourself completely, alright?

Read our full review: Clansman Hotel Loch Ness Full Review and Details. See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (The Clansman Hotel)