Scotland's top six waterside dining spots to eat in the views this summer
Here are some of the best places in the country for al fresco dining.
Summer is finally beginning, and so is peak al fresco season. To celebrate, the Daily Record has rounded up a selection of top outdoor dining venues across the country.
When the mercury rises, nothing can beat a meal in the sun. Whether you live in one of Scotland's cities or a small town or village, there is no shortage of scenic restaurants and cafés that offer outdoor seating.
Now that spring is at an end, now is the time to head out and enjoy some top-quality food and drink outside. The Daily Record has put together a list of stunning al freso dining spots all over the country, from Edinburgh to the Isle of Skye.
1. The Three Chimneys, Colbost, Isle of Skye
The Three Chimneys is a world-renowned restaurant with rooms situated in an area of stunning natural beauty at Colbost on the Isle of Skye. Nestled along the shores of Loch Dunvegan, it offers incredible views out over the island's Duirinish peninsula.
Dating back to 1985, visitors around the world enjoy the restaurant's dishes—including double-dived Sconser scallops from Loch Sligachan and locally reared lamb. Serving up fresh and local produce, the multi-award-winning restaurant is featured in both the Michelin Guide for Great Britain and Ireland and The Good Food Guide.
More information can be found on the The Three Chimneys website.
2. The Three Chimneys at Talisker, Loch Harport, Isle of Skye
The Three Chimneys and Talisker—Skye's oldest whisky distillery— have joined forces for this one-of-a-kind dining experience. Located at the distillery, along the shores of Loch Harport, it aims to celebrate Skye as a world-class food destination.
The food experience offers locally sourced food and drink, with the menus inspired by Talisker Distillery's unique location on the Minginish peninsula. The à la carte menu for summer 2025 includes locally caught langoustines, oysters, mussels, and scallops.
3. The Pierhouse Hotel & Seafood Restaurant, Port Appin, Argyll
This acclaimed eatery, which is situated within one of Argyll's most popular coastal hotels, is home to Scotland's Chef of the Year 2025. Situated on the edge of Loch Linnhe, it benefits from sweeping views out towards the islands of Lismore and Mull.
Among the top choices on the menu are fresh langoustines, mussels, and lobsters harvested from Loch Linnhe and Loch Etive. Another highlight is oysters hand-picked from the nearby Loch Creran.
4. Plockton Inn, Innes Street, Plockton, Wester Ross
The idyllic village of Plockton is often referred to as the 'Jewel of the Highlands', and the Plockton Inn is easily among its standouts. The recently refurbished restaurant and bar retains many original period features, though also takes contemporary inspiration from its gorgeous surroundings.
The Plockton Inn is serving up a new seasonal menu that is full of fresh and local produce. Among the highlights is 'Plockton Prawns', which are landed daily just a stone's throw from the restaurant.
More information can be found on the Plockton Inn website.
5. Kylesku Hotel, Sutherland, North Coast 500
Situated in the wild and rugged surroundings of Assynt in the far northwest of Scotland, the Kylesku Hotel is among the most scenic dining experiences found along the famous North Coast 500 driving route. The hotel's restaurant features an outdoor terrace that offers far-reaching views out over Loch Gleann Dubh.
The menu at the Kylesku Hotel showcases the best of the Scottish Highland's larder. It features langoustines, crab, lobster, hand-dived scallops, and more.
More information can be found on the Kylesku Hotel website.
6. Barry Fish, 62 The Shore, Leith, Edinburgh
Tucked along Edinburgh's vibrant waterfront, this stylish fish restaurant showcases some of Scotland's best seafood. Diners can enjoy views directly into the open-plan working kitchen from the pass, as well as out over the Water of Leith from the comfort of the restaurant.
The Low-Tide and Big Snacks menus include Barry Fish sea trout pastrami and Loch Fyne oysters, Eyemouth crab, sea bream, and sea bass ceviche. Meanwhile, the evening dinner menu includes shelled half lobster, as well as whole sea bass or bream.
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