Inverness Restaurants and Dining

(Inverness, Scotland, UK)

Scotland's past reputation for specialising in bland overcooked food has thankfully been replaced with a flair for creative international cuisine. Inverness has a healthy selection of restaurants, cafés and pubs that serve up very good Chinese, French, Indian, Italian and Mexican grub. It almost feels as if Inverness has discovered its palate and looked to the world for some dining inspiration. Yet the city also seems intent on rediscovering its own homegrown Scottish fare.

There is a wide range of eateries in Inverness catering to every budget and style. While many of them focus on one kind of cooking, such as Chinese, a growing number of restaurants in the city are mixing international dining with traditional Scottish food.

What to Eat, and Where

The most innovative are fusing the two into a new kind of cuisine that uses local products and recipes to reshape classic global favourites. Meats like Aberdeen Angus beef, farm-raised lamb and wild game from the Highlands feature heavily in the city's top restaurants. Fish from the sea and the rivers is another favourite around here, complemented by a variety of hearty vegetables and fresh herbs.

You'll find more than enough modest dining options scattered around Inverness, especially along the High Street pedestrian area and within the downtown core. While most eateries in the city are decent enough, don't miss out on dining at some of the rising stars and established favourites.

The Abstract on the Ness Bank is one of the newer additions to the dining scene in Inverness. This popular restaurant combines French cooking styles with Scottish ingredients to create perhaps the best eating experience in the city. The chefs at Abstract are at the top of their field and originate from all across Europe.

Restaurant Chez Christophe is another long-standing favourite for French cuisine and is to be found on Ardross Street. The modern and traditional come together at their 16-seat restaurant. This is an intimate place, so be sure to call ahead and make a reservation.

On Castle Street, Café 1 is a great choice for Scottish fare with a French flair. This charming little bistro has the atmosphere to match its creative and tasty menu.

Of course, don't overlook the simpler dining establishments in Inverness, like the Pork, Cheese and Pie Shop. This is the place to try Scottish pies, excellent local cheeses and sweets like shortbread and scones.