1. Arriving in Inverness: A Town Steeped in Charm
The moment I stepped off the train at Inverness, I could feel a different kind of stillness in the air. The kind that only exists in a town surrounded by hills, rivers, and centuries of stories. The River Ness glistened under the pale spring sun, and the streets were just waking up. It felt like I’d stumbled into a postcard.
After dropping my bags at a small guesthouse near the city center, I did what I always do in a new city: I hunted for food. And in Inverness, that meant exploring a growing scene of trend-setting restaurants that have been gaining attention far beyond the Highlands.
2. Rocpool Restaurant: Where Style Meets Substance
Rocpool had been recommended by more than one person, and it lived up to every word. The restaurant sits right on the river, and I managed to get a window seat. The interior was modern with touches of Highland warmth—wooden tables, soft leather chairs, minimalist lighting.
I started with the West Coast scallops served with crispy pancetta and a smooth parsnip purée. Each bite was rich and silky, with just the right balance of salt and sweetness. For the main, I chose the roasted Highland venison with beetroot textures and truffle jus. It was cooked perfectly—tender, deeply flavorful, and plated like artwork.
Dessert was a warm Valrhona chocolate fondant, oozing with a rich center and paired with a quenelle of homemade vanilla ice cream. I left completely full, mildly buzzed from a glass of red wine, and already planning to return.
Tip: Book in advance through OpenTable or ResDiary—they get busy even on weekdays.
3. The Mustard Seed: Historic Charm and Highland Heart
Set in a former church overlooking the river, The Mustard Seed combines historical ambiance with soulful food. The vaulted ceiling and open mezzanine gave it a rustic grandeur. I went for a weekday lunch, hoping to beat the dinner crowd.
Their Cullen Skink (a traditional Scottish smoked haddock soup) was the best I’ve ever had—thick, creamy, and smoky. As a main, I ordered pan-fried seabass with sautéed greens and crushed new potatoes. It was light but filling, perfectly cooked, and the skin was crisp without being oily.
What surprised me most was the price. For a two-course lunch in such a refined space, it was exceptional value. The server was attentive and knowledgeable, happily answering my endless questions about where their fish was sourced and what whisky would pair best with dessert.
4. River House Restaurant: The Seafood Star
On my second night, I opted for River House. It’s a tiny place by the water that specializes in seafood, and you can feel the chef’s pride in every dish. The menu changes depending on the daily catch.
I began with oysters from the west coast of Scotland—served simply with lemon and shallot vinaigrette. Then came the lobster thermidor, which was decadent without being heavy, and so flavorful I didn’t want the meal to end. The accompanying saffron risotto was creamy and aromatic.
Even if you’re not a die-hard seafood fan, this place might convert you. It’s intimate and upscale but not pretentious. I overheard a couple next to me say they had come back for the third time that week. I could see why.
5. The Kitchen Brasserie: Modern Views, Modern Dishes
The Kitchen Brasserie was a more modern spot, right by the Ness Bridge. What immediately stood out was the view: large glass walls offered sweeping panoramas of the river, especially stunning at sunset.
Their menu was rooted in Scottish tradition but had plenty of international flair. I had haggis bonbons with a whisky cream sauce to start—crunchy on the outside, soft and spicy inside. Then came a pork belly dish with miso glaze and Asian greens, which was unexpected and absolutely brilliant.
Their cocktail list was also worth exploring. I tried a lavender gin and tonic that tasted like a Highland meadow in a glass.
6. Black Isle Bar & Rooms: Pizza, Pints, and People-Watching
Black Isle Bar is a vibrant, slightly grungy spot known for craft beers and its rooftop terrace. It’s also a favorite hangout for both locals and tourists. I went on a Friday night, and it was buzzing with energy.
The pizza here is made with organic ingredients and wood-fired to perfection. I ordered the mushroom and truffle oil version, and paired it with their house-brewed porter. Everything hit the spot—nothing fancy, but done extremely well.
If you’re into craft beer, this is the place. They offer flights so you can taste a range, and their staff are happy to guide you if you’re not sure where to start.
7. Cafe 1: Sophisticated Yet Playful
Located just up the hill from the city center, Cafe 1 struck a balance between fine dining and casual comfort. The menu was compact but interesting, with some unusual twists.
I ordered the Highland beef fillet with bone marrow butter and triple-cooked chips. The beef was beautifully aged and seared with a crust that could make a grown man weep. I couldn’t resist trying the sticky ginger pudding for dessert—it was served with stem ginger ice cream and had just the right amount of warmth and spice.
They also source most of their produce locally, including from the owners’ own croft. You can taste the difference.
8. Number 27: Hearty and Honest Highland Fare
Number 27 was a more traditional pub-style restaurant that offered hearty portions and comforting flavors. I stopped in one evening after a long walk along the Caledonian Canal.
Their steak and ale pie was a thing of beauty: flaky pastry, tender beef, rich gravy. Served with a pint of local ale and a mountain of mashed potatoes, it was the kind of meal that makes you want to curl up in a booth for hours.
No reservations needed here, but it does fill up quickly around dinner time. Definitely a go-to for classic Scottish pub food with heart.
9. Fig & Thistle Bistro: Cozy and Inventive
Fig & Thistle is a small, independent bistro hidden just off Academy Street. Inside, it’s warm, intimate, and decorated with vintage touches.
I had a starter of smoked salmon rillette with oatcakes, followed by a duck leg confit with cherry glaze and sweet potato mash. Every bite was balanced, seasonal, and clearly cooked with care.
The couple next to me told me they come here every time they’re in Inverness—it’s one of those hidden gems that doesn’t try too hard and ends up being effortlessly excellent.
10. Ordering Tips and Reservation Tools
If you’re planning your own foodie journey through Inverness, I’d recommend booking ahead, especially for dinner. Some of these places—especially Rocpool, River House, and Cafe 1—can be fully booked days in advance. Here are a few tools I found helpful:
- OpenTable – Easy to use, and many restaurants in Inverness are listed.
- ResDiary – Popular in the UK, especially for smaller independent restaurants.
- Direct Websites – Many local spots like Fig & Thistle or River House take bookings directly via their website or through Instagram.
- Walk-ins – Black Isle Bar and Number 27 usually accommodate walk-ins, but expect a short wait during peak hours.
