Fort Augustus, a charming town situated on the shores of Loch Ness, is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. Nestled in the heart of the Scottish Highlands, this picturesque town offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and warm hospitality. As a foodie, one of the most exciting aspects of visiting Fort Augustus is the opportunity to indulge in a wide range of delicious and authentic Scottish cuisine. From traditional pub grub to fine dining experiences, Fort Augustus has something to satisfy every palate and budget. In this article, we’ll explore the best places to eat in Fort Augustus, covering everything from breakfast to dinner and beyond.
Breakfast and Brunch Spots
Starting your day with a hearty breakfast is essential, and Fort Augustus has plenty of options to get you going. Here are some of the top breakfast and brunch spots to try:
The Coffee Shop
Located in the heart of the town, The Coffee Shop is a popular spot for a morning coffee and a delicious breakfast. Their menu features a range of options, from classic Scottish breakfasts to healthier alternatives like avocado toast. Be sure to try their signature coffee blend, roasted locally in Inverness.
The Highland Café
This cozy café is a hidden gem in Fort Augustus, serving up tasty breakfasts and brunches using locally sourced ingredients. Their menu changes seasonally, but you can expect to find dishes like eggs benedict, smoked salmon bagels, and full Scottish breakfasts.
Fort Augustus Bakery
This family-run bakery has been a staple in the town for generations, offering a wide range of freshly baked goods, including bread, pastries, and cakes. Stop by for a breakfast treat or grab a loaf to take back to your accommodation.
Lunch and Snack Options
After a morning of exploring, it’s time to refuel with a delicious lunch. Fort Augustus has plenty of options to suit every taste and budget. Here are some of the top lunch and snack spots to try:
The Old Bank Bar
This charming pub is a great place to grab a bite to eat and enjoy a pint of real ale. Their menu features a range of pub classics, including burgers, sandwiches, and salads, as well as more substantial dishes like fish and chips and steak pie. (See Also: Where to Eat in Aachen? Top Culinary Spots)
Loch Ness Café
With stunning views of Loch Ness, this café is the perfect spot to enjoy a light lunch or snack. Their menu features a range of options, including sandwiches, paninis, and salads, as well as delicious cakes and pastries.
The Village Shop
This family-run shop is a great place to grab a quick snack or light lunch. They offer a range of freshly made sandwiches, salads, and soups, as well as a selection of artisanal cheeses, crackers, and jams.
Dinner and Evening Options
As the day winds down, it’s time to indulge in a delicious dinner. Fort Augustus has a range of options to suit every taste and budget. Here are some of the top dinner and evening spots to try:
The Clansman Hotel
This 4-star hotel offers a range of dining options, including a fine dining restaurant and a more casual pub menu. Their menu features a range of Scottish classics, including haggis, neeps and tatties, and Cullen skink.
The Glenmoriston Town House
This stylish hotel offers a range of dining options, including a fine dining restaurant and a more casual lounge menu. Their menu features a range of Scottish and international dishes, including seafood, steak, and vegetarian options.
The Village Inn
This cozy pub is a great place to enjoy a hearty dinner and a pint of real ale. Their menu features a range of pub classics, including burgers, sandwiches, and salads, as well as more substantial dishes like fish and chips and steak pie.
Special Treats and Sweet Treats
Fort Augustus is also home to a range of special treats and sweet treats to indulge in. Here are some of the top options to try: (See Also: Where to Eat in Charleston South Carolina? Culinary Delights)
Fort Augustus Chocolates
This family-run chocolate shop offers a range of delicious treats, including handcrafted chocolates, truffles, and fudge. Be sure to try their signature Loch Ness chocolate, made with locally sourced ingredients.
The Cake Shop
This charming cake shop offers a range of delicious treats, including cakes, pastries, and biscuits. Their menu changes seasonally, but you can expect to find dishes like Victoria sponge cake, lemon drizzle cake, and shortbread.
Fort Augustus Ice Cream
This family-run ice cream shop offers a range of delicious flavors, including Scottish classics like strawberry and raspberry, as well as more unique flavors like honey and lavender. Be sure to try their signature Loch Ness ice cream, made with locally sourced cream and sugar.
Recap and Recommendations
In conclusion, Fort Augustus has a wide range of delicious dining options to suit every taste and budget. From traditional pub grub to fine dining experiences, there’s something for everyone in this charming town. Be sure to try some of the top breakfast and brunch spots, like The Coffee Shop and The Highland Café, and indulge in some of the town’s famous sweet treats, like Fort Augustus Chocolates and The Cake Shop. With its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and warm hospitality, Fort Augustus is a must-visit destination for any foodie or traveler.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best place to eat in Fort Augustus?
A: The best place to eat in Fort Augustus is a matter of personal taste, but some of the top options include The Clansman Hotel, The Glenmoriston Town House, and The Village Inn. Be sure to try some of the town’s famous sweet treats, like Fort Augustus Chocolates and The Cake Shop.
Q: Are there any vegetarian options in Fort Augustus?
A: Yes, many of the top restaurants and cafes in Fort Augustus offer vegetarian options, including The Highland Café, The Coffee Shop, and The Village Shop. Be sure to ask your server about vegetarian options when dining out. (See Also: Where to Eat in Alfama Lisbon? Hidden Gems Revealed)
Q: Can I get gluten-free options in Fort Augustus?
A: Yes, many of the top restaurants and cafes in Fort Augustus offer gluten-free options, including The Clansman Hotel, The Glenmoriston Town House, and The Village Inn. Be sure to ask your server about gluten-free options when dining out.
Q: Are there any child-friendly restaurants in Fort Augustus?
A: Yes, many of the top restaurants and cafes in Fort Augustus are child-friendly, including The Old Bank Bar, The Loch Ness Café, and The Village Shop. Be sure to ask your server about child-friendly options when dining out.
Q: Can I get takeout or delivery in Fort Augustus?
A: Yes, many of the top restaurants and cafes in Fort Augustus offer takeout or delivery options, including The Village Shop, The Highland Café, and The Coffee Shop. Be sure to ask your server about takeout or delivery options when dining out.