Planning a trip to the charming coastal town of Stonehaven? One of the most enjoyable aspects of any getaway is exploring the local culinary scene. From fresh seafood to cozy pubs, Stonehaven offers a diverse range of dining options to satisfy every taste bud.
Get ultimate traveler plannerWhere to Eat in Stonehaven: A Foodie’s Guide
Whether you’re seeking a romantic dinner with a sea view, a family-friendly pub lunch, or a quick bite on the go, Stonehaven has something to offer. This guide will highlight some of the best places to eat in Stonehaven, covering various cuisines and price points to help you make the most of your culinary adventure.
Exploring the Flavors of Stonehaven
Stonehaven’s location on the North Sea coast means fresh seafood is a local specialty. Expect to find delicious dishes like langoustines, scallops, and haddock, often prepared with traditional Scottish recipes. Beyond seafood, you’ll discover a variety of international cuisines, cozy cafes, and charming pubs serving hearty meals and local brews.
Where to Eat in Stonehaven: A Culinary Journey
Nestled on the stunning Aberdeenshire coast, Stonehaven offers a delightful blend of charming history, breathtaking scenery, and a vibrant culinary scene. Whether you’re craving fresh seafood, hearty pub fare, or something a little more refined, Stonehaven has a restaurant to tantalize every taste bud. This guide will take you on a delicious journey through the best places to eat in Stonehaven, ensuring you have a memorable dining experience.
Seafood Delights
Given its coastal location, it’s no surprise that Stonehaven boasts an abundance of fantastic seafood restaurants. Here are some of the top spots to indulge in the freshest catches:
The Seafood Shack
This popular eatery, located right on the harbour, is a must-visit for seafood lovers. Known for its casual atmosphere and exceptional quality, The Seafood Shack offers a wide range of dishes, from classic fish and chips to more elaborate seafood platters. Don’t miss their daily specials, which often feature the freshest catches of the day.
The Bay Fish & Chips
A local favourite, The Bay Fish & Chips serves up traditional fish and chips with a modern twist. Their batter is light and crispy, and the fish is always cooked to perfection. Pair your meal with a side of mushy peas or tartar sauce for a truly authentic experience.
The Ship Inn
This historic pub, with its stunning harbour views, offers a cosy and welcoming atmosphere. The Ship Inn’s menu features a selection of fresh seafood dishes, including mussels, scallops, and grilled salmon. Their Sunday lunch is also highly recommended, with a variety of roasts and seafood options available. (See Also: Where To Eat In Salthill)
Fine Dining Experiences
For a more sophisticated dining experience, Stonehaven offers several excellent restaurants that showcase the finest local produce and international flavours:
The Stonehaven Restaurant
This award-winning restaurant, located in the heart of the town, offers a refined and elegant dining experience. The menu features seasonal dishes, with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Their wine list is extensive and carefully curated to complement the dishes.
The Crafty Pint
This gastropub, known for its creative and innovative menu, offers a unique dining experience. The Crafty Pint’s dishes are inspired by both traditional Scottish cuisine and modern culinary trends. Their craft beer selection is also impressive, with a rotating selection of local and international brews.
The Marcliffe at Pitfodels
Just a short drive from Stonehaven, The Marcliffe at Pitfodels is a luxurious hotel with a Michelin-starred restaurant. This exceptional dining destination offers a truly unforgettable experience, with exquisite tasting menus and impeccable service.
Casual Dining Options
Stonehaven also has a variety of casual dining options, perfect for a quick bite or a relaxed meal with friends and family:
The Tolbooth
This charming cafe and restaurant, located in a historic building, offers a cosy and welcoming atmosphere. The Tolbooth’s menu features a range of sandwiches, salads, soups, and baked goods. Their coffee is excellent, and they also serve a selection of teas and hot chocolates.
The Old Bridge Inn
This traditional pub, located on the banks of the River Dee, offers a warm and inviting atmosphere. The Old Bridge Inn’s menu features classic pub fare, such as burgers, pies, and fish and chips. They also have a good selection of beers, wines, and spirits. (See Also: Where To Eat In Filey)
The Coffee House
This popular coffee shop, located in the heart of the town, is a great place to grab a quick coffee or a light lunch. The Coffee House offers a variety of coffee drinks, teas, sandwiches, salads, and pastries. They also have a selection of books and magazines to browse.
Sweet Treats and Takeaways
No culinary journey is complete without a sweet treat. Stonehaven has several excellent options for satisfying your sweet tooth:
The Chocolate Box
This charming chocolatier offers a wide range of handmade chocolates, truffles, and other confectionery delights. Their chocolates are made with the finest ingredients and are sure to please any chocolate lover.
The Ice Cream Parlour
This popular ice cream parlour serves up a variety of delicious flavours, from classic vanilla to more adventurous options like honeycomb and salted caramel. They also offer sundaes, milkshakes, and other ice cream treats.
Stonehaven Pizza Co.
For a quick and tasty takeaway, Stonehaven Pizza Co. offers a wide range of pizzas, pasta dishes, and salads. Their pizzas are made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients and are cooked to perfection in their wood-fired oven.
Recap
Stonehaven’s culinary scene offers a diverse range of dining experiences, from fresh seafood to fine dining, casual pubs to charming cafes. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner, a family-friendly meal, or a quick bite on the go, you’re sure to find something to tantalize your taste buds in this delightful coastal town.
Frequently Asked Questions About Where to Eat in Stonehaven
What type of cuisine is Stonehaven known for?
Stonehaven offers a diverse range of cuisines, from traditional Scottish fare like fish and chips and haggis to international options like Italian, Indian, and Thai. You’ll also find plenty of cafes, pubs, and restaurants serving up delicious breakfasts, lunches, and dinners. (See Also: Where To Eat In Dartmouth)
Are there any vegetarian or vegan options in Stonehaven?
Yes, Stonehaven has a growing number of restaurants catering to vegetarian and vegan diets. Many establishments offer dedicated vegetarian and vegan dishes on their menus, and others are happy to adapt existing dishes to suit dietary requirements.
What is the best place to eat seafood in Stonehaven?
Stonehaven’s proximity to the sea means there are many excellent seafood restaurants to choose from. Some popular options include The Seafood Shack, The Bay Fish & Chips, and The Ship Inn. All offer fresh, locally sourced seafood dishes.
Where can I find a family-friendly restaurant in Stonehaven?
Stonehaven has plenty of family-friendly restaurants that cater to all ages. Some popular choices include The Crafty Pint, The Tolbooth, and The Old Pier Inn. These restaurants often have kids’ menus, high chairs, and a welcoming atmosphere.
What is the average price range for a meal in Stonehaven?
Stonehaven offers a range of dining options to suit different budgets. You can find affordable meals at cafes and pubs, while more upscale restaurants may have higher price points. Generally, expect to pay around £10-20 per person for a main course.
