Where To Eat In Aviemore

When it comes to planning a trip to Aviemore, one of the most crucial decisions you’ll make is where to eat. As a popular tourist destination in the Scottish Highlands, Aviemore offers a diverse range of dining options to suit every taste and budget. From traditional Scottish cuisine to international flavors, the town’s culinary scene is a reflection of its rich cultural heritage. In this guide, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the best places to eat in Aviemore, ensuring that you make the most of your dining experiences during your stay.

Overview of Aviemore’s Dining Scene

Aviemore’s dining scene is a perfect blend of traditional and modern, with a range of restaurants, cafes, and pubs serving everything from hearty breakfasts to gourmet dinners. Whether you’re looking for a romantic evening out, a family-friendly meal, or a quick bite on-the-go, Aviemore has something for everyone. From seafood to steak, Italian to Indian, and from casual eateries to fine dining establishments, the town’s culinary landscape is as diverse as it is exciting.

What to Expect

In this guide, we’ll explore the top-rated restaurants, cafes, and pubs in Aviemore, highlighting their unique features, menu specialties, and ambiance. We’ll also provide insider tips and recommendations to help you navigate the town’s culinary scene like a local. Whether you’re a foodie, a family, or a solo traveler, our guide will ensure that you find the perfect spot to satisfy your cravings and make your dining experiences in Aviemore truly unforgettable.

Where to Eat in Aviemore: A Comprehensive Guide

Aviemore, a charming town in the Scottish Highlands, is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and foodies alike. With its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, Aviemore offers a diverse range of dining options to suit every taste and budget. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the best places to eat in Aviemore, from traditional Scottish pubs to modern restaurants and cafes.

Traditional Scottish Pubs

Aviemore is home to several traditional Scottish pubs that serve up hearty, comforting dishes and a warm atmosphere. Here are a few must-visit pubs:

• The Old Bridge Inn: Located in the heart of Aviemore, this 18th-century inn offers a range of traditional Scottish dishes, including haggis, neeps and tatties, and Cullen skink. Enjoy a pint of real ale by the roaring fire or in the beer garden.
• The Skiing Doo: This popular pub is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Try their famous “Doo Burger” or sample their selection of Scottish craft beers.
• The Cairngorm Hotel: This historic hotel has a cozy pub serving up classic Scottish fare, including fish and chips, steak pie, and Scotch broth.

Modern Restaurants

Aviemore’s modern restaurants offer a more contemporary take on Scottish cuisine, often using locally sourced ingredients and innovative techniques. Here are a few standouts: (See Also: Where To Eat In Belfast City Centre)

• The Boat Hotel Restaurant: Located in the Boat Hotel, this restaurant serves up modern Scottish cuisine with a focus on seasonal ingredients. Try their seafood platter or roasted lamb shank.
• The Aviemore Inn Restaurant: This restaurant offers a range of modern Scottish dishes, including venison steak, pan-seared salmon, and vegetarian options like stuffed portobello mushrooms.
• The Macdonald Aviemore Hotel Restaurant: This hotel restaurant serves up contemporary Scottish cuisine, including dishes like Highland venison, roasted scallops, and Scottish beef burgers.

Cafes and Bistros

Aviemore’s cafes and bistros are perfect for a quick bite or a leisurely lunch. Here are a few recommendations:

• The Coffee Corner: This cozy cafe serves up excellent coffee, homemade cakes, and light bites like sandwiches and paninis.
• The Mountain Cafe: Located in the heart of Aviemore, this cafe offers a range of breakfast and lunch options, including eggs benedict, pancakes, and sandwiches.
• Bistro at the Cairngorm Hotel: This bistro serves up light, modern dishes like salads, soups, and sandwiches, as well as more substantial options like burgers and pasta.

Foodie Favorites

Aviemore is home to several foodie favorites that are worth seeking out. Here are a few:

• The Fish and Chip Co.: This popular takeaway serves up delicious, sustainable fish and chips, as well as other seafood options like scallops and langoustines.
• The Aviemore Bakery: This family-run bakery offers a range of delicious bread, pastries, and cakes, including traditional Scottish treats like bridies and scones.
• The Cairngorm Brewery: While not a restaurant, this local brewery is worth a visit for its excellent craft beers and tours of the brewery.

Special Dietary Options

Aviemore has several options for those with special dietary requirements. Here are a few:

• The Green Restaurant: This vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurant serves up delicious, locally sourced dishes like veggie burgers, salads, and pasta.
• The Old Bridge Inn: This pub has a separate gluten-free menu, making it a great option for those with gluten intolerance.
• The Aviemore Inn Restaurant: This restaurant has a range of gluten-free and vegetarian options, including dishes like risotto and stuffed portobello mushrooms.

Food and Drink Events

Aviemore hosts several food and drink events throughout the year, showcasing the region’s culinary delights. Here are a few:

• Aviemore Food Festival: Held annually in September, this festival features local food producers, cooking demonstrations, and live music.
• Cairngorm Beer Festival: This popular festival takes place in August and features local breweries, live music, and food stalls.
• Highland Food and Drink Awards: Held in November, this awards ceremony celebrates the region’s best food and drink producers, with categories like Best Restaurant, Best Pub, and Best Local Producer.

Insider Tips

Here are a few insider tips to help you make the most of your dining experience in Aviemore:

• Book ahead: Aviemore’s restaurants can get busy, especially during peak season, so be sure to book ahead to avoid disappointment.
• Try local ingredients: Aviemore is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, and many restaurants showcase local ingredients like venison, seafood, and Highland beef.
• Don’t miss the views: Many restaurants in Aviemore offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside, so be sure to ask for a window seat or outdoor seating.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Aviemore is a foodie’s paradise, with a range of traditional Scottish pubs, modern restaurants, and cozy cafes to suit every taste and budget. From hearty pub grub to innovative, locally sourced cuisine, Aviemore has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a leisurely lunch, be sure to try some of the local specialties like haggis, neeps and tatties, and Cullen skink. And don’t forget to wash it down with a pint of real ale or a dram of whisky! (See Also: Where To Eat In Gramercy)

Recap:

• Aviemore has a range of traditional Scottish pubs serving up hearty, comforting dishes.
• Modern restaurants offer a contemporary take on Scottish cuisine, often using locally sourced ingredients.
• Cafes and bistros are perfect for a quick bite or leisurely lunch.
• Foodie favorites like fish and chip shops and bakeries are worth seeking out.
• Aviemore has several options for those with special dietary requirements.
• The region hosts several food and drink events throughout the year.
• Book ahead, try local ingredients, and don’t miss the views!

We hope this guide has given you a taste of what Aviemore has to offer. Happy eating!

Frequently Asked Questions: Where to Eat in Aviemore

What are the best restaurants in Aviemore for breakfast?

Aviemore has plenty of excellent breakfast spots. The Boat Hotel’s restaurant serves a delicious breakfast buffet, while the Aviemore Inn offers a hearty full Scottish breakfast. For a more casual option, try the Mountain Cafe or the Old Bridge Inn, both of which serve tasty breakfast dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.

Are there any good family-friendly restaurants in Aviemore?

Yes, Aviemore has several family-friendly restaurants that are perfect for families with kids. The Cairngorm Hotel’s restaurant has a children’s menu and a relaxed atmosphere, while the Skiing Doo restaurant at the Macdonald Aviemore Resort has a play area and a menu that kids will love. The Winking Owl pub is also a great option, with a children’s menu and outdoor play area.

Where can I find gluten-free or vegan options in Aviemore?

Aviemore has several restaurants that cater to gluten-free and vegan diets. The Mountain Cafe has a separate gluten-free menu, while the Old Bridge Inn offers vegan and gluten-free options. The Cairngorm Hotel’s restaurant also has gluten-free and vegan options on their menu. It’s always a good idea to call ahead and confirm options, as they may change. (See Also: Where To Eat In Flam)

Are there any restaurants in Aviemore that serve traditional Scottish cuisine?

Yes, Aviemore has several restaurants that serve traditional Scottish cuisine. The Boat Hotel’s restaurant serves dishes such as Cullen skink, haggis, and Aberdeen Angus beef, while the Aviemore Inn offers traditional Scottish fare like fish and chips and steak pie. The Cairngorm Hotel’s restaurant also has a menu that features Scottish specialties like venison and salmon.

Can I book a table in advance at Aviemore’s popular restaurants?

Yes, it’s highly recommended to book a table in advance at Aviemore’s popular restaurants, especially during peak season. Many restaurants offer online booking systems or allow you to book by phone. This will ensure that you get a table at your preferred time and avoid disappointment. Some restaurants may also offer special deals or discounts for advance bookings, so be sure to check their websites or call ahead to ask.