Where to go for the best catch in Scotland

With all those lochs and sea surrounding it, Scotland is known for the freshest fish and seafood you can eat. Try the catch of the day at these eateries.

1) Gille Brighde Restaurant

This once was an old schoolhouse tucked away in the dramatic scenery of Loch Torridon. This is local seafood and produce at its best. A lot of thought has been put into the food here, from sea to land to plate. Friendly welcome and Highland hospitality here. Opened from Easter until the end of October with then still a limited opening times so please check and book before your visit.

people having a drink in the sun outside at Gille Brighde restaurant

2) The Oystercatcher

Head down this long and winding single-track road until you eventually come to The Oystercatcher. It has a beautiful pontoon outside that must be a hit with sun baskers and bathers alike in the summer, or for those who enjoy a cold dip. Admittedly, the building looks unassuming from the outside, but what happens inside is what matters. With new owners Phoebe and Steve, it’s great to see the pub continue its upward trajectory. The interior has a modern, spacious but cosy pub-feel to it, with rustic wooden furniture and panelling. The menu is superb, with everything made in-house and carefully paired. There are lots of fresh fish choices, veggie options, and Ballimore oysters from Loch Fyne, which the pub overlooks. The bar stocks an array of Scottish craft beer, with lots of really nice options to try. The Oystercatcher is well worth the detour, or even a destination in itself.

a man with a tattoo cutting an oyster

More Hidden Scotland?

This guide takes you to hundreds of worthwhile spots all over Scotland: from nature reserves, to locals' pubs, from vintage shops to dramatic lochs. Available in our shop now.

Buy the book or ebook

3) The Shieldaig Bar & Coastal kitchen

The outside seating and upstairs deck provide an amazing setting to watch the world go by in one of Scotland’s most scenic settings on Loch Torridon. Specialising in local seafood and wood-fired pizza, this bar is a perfect stop-off if you are in the area. Local An Teallach Brewery on tap for ale lovers and not a bad selection for a wee bar. Get the craic on Saturday nights as they usually have a folk session on the go, which is worth popping your head in the door for. Booking advised at the height of the season.

a couple looking over Loch Torridon from The Shieldaig stay

4) The Applecross Inn

When you drop down from the dramatic Bealach na Ba Pass, you continue to follow the famously twisty road until you reach a T-junction and turn left to the acclaimed Applecross Inn. The outside seating provides excellent views over the water to Raasay and Skye. The observant eye amongst you might even spot lurking submarines in the distance. The menu is famous for its seafood, but other fine Scottish options are available, and in big portions. The bar has a good selection of real ales, whisky and gin. During the height of the season it is very popular, so best to keep dining times flexible. If not, head to their retro food truck ‘The Inn-side out’ for fish and chips. If you use the community Wi-Fi please make sure to contribute a donation.

Applecross Inn seafood truck

Join the community

Sign up for free to gain unlimited access to the website. Plus, you'll receive a 10% discount in our online bookshop.

Sign up