With the romantic realms of Appin beckoning for delicious escapism, it’s hard to resist the lure of magical adventures between ben and loch. Making retreats to the district of Appin all the more enchanting are the array of inviting places to eat. Nestled beside glistening waterfronts and rugged mountainscapes, these award-winning restaurants and cosy cafés offer an unmissable taste of Scotland. Embrace leisurely pursuits throughout forested glens and sun-kissed shores, before veering off to one of these welcoming establishments for a satiating repast.
Whether you’re seeking a laidback brunch or a dream dinner date, uncover some of the finest places to eat in Appin.
The Pierhouse Hotel, Port Appin
The Pierhouse Hotel resides beside the water in the picturesque village of Port Appin. Overlooking Loch Linnhe, this beloved restaurant celebrates the untamed beauty of the west coast with far-reaching loch views framed by bay windows. Recommended by the Michelin Guide, it is particularly revered for its traditional cuisine, specialising in Scottish seafood. Take a seat inside or enjoy an alfresco experience in the outdoor seating area as you consider the expertly curated menus. Along with daily specials courtesy of local fishing boats, The Pierhouse is renowned for its traditional dishes such as Cullen skink and fish pie.
Ee-Usk, Oban
In the heart of Scotland’s seafood capital, Ee-Usk is a local restaurant with a world-class reputation. Situated within a contemporary, glass-fronted building, it enjoys pride of place on Oban’s picturesque harbour. With a focus on fish and shellfish, the restaurant’s talented team creates fresh dishes served simply. Head over for lunch or dinner on select days throughout the week, ready to peruse the menus of flavour-infused favourites. Tempting appetites are local mussels in creamy white wine sauce with garlic butter, Loch Creran oysters, and signature Ee-Usk fishcake with fresh and smoked salmon.
Airds Hotel, Port Appin
Set above the tranquil shores of Loch Linnhe in Port Appin, Airds Hotel and Restaurant proposes a welcome space to retreat for relaxing fireside feasts. Recommended by the Michelin Guide, it rests on a picturesque crossroads in the village and encourages diners to enjoy its restaurant, dining lounge, and loch-view garden. In homage to Scotland’s bountiful natural larder, its menus paint a portrait of provenance with produce sourced locally wherever possible. Expect delicious dishes of traditional Scottish favourites alongside innovative creations infused with a local twist and crafted to the highest standards.
Stiff Peaks, Ballachulish
For those seeking a sweet or savoury treat to satiate the appetite, Stiff Peaks in Ballachulish is a must-visit. Trained under Michel Roux Jr. and Andrew Fairlie, owner Lyndsay Michie harnesses her skills and expertise to create a flavoursome array of delights. From buttery pastries and fruit-filled pies to feel-good savoury bakes and homemade cakes, each creation is a product of passion and the highest quality Highland produce. Venture over to uncover the neatly stacked shelves and displays and pick your favourite treats to take away with you, ready to be enjoyed with a special backdrop of majestic panoramas.
The Creagan Inn, Appin
The Creagan Inn is one of the most sought-after destinations in the West Highlands for its welcoming atmosphere and heavenly cuisine. Tucked between glen and sea, it’s adored by visitors and locals alike for its stunning location and locally crafted menus. Nominated by The Food Awards Scotland as 2025’s Gastro Pub of the Year, it showcases the best of Highland produce through its ever-updating menus. For a unique experience in Appin, The Creagan Inn is also home to a collection of 120 bottles of Scottish whisky – perfect for sampling classic vintages and peaty innovations during an Appin sojourn.
Coast Restaurant, Oban
Welcoming diners for over 20 years, husband-and-wife-run Coast Restaurant in Oban is a beloved local institution. Cultivating produce from land and sea, the kitchen team create delectable dishes for lunch and dinner using Scottish ingredients, from vegetables to seafood and game. Ensuring there is always something tempting to choose from, established favourites are presented alongside seasonal offerings and daily specials, including starters, mains, and desserts. For those with a sweet tooth, the sticky toffee pudding with butterscotch sauce and homemade ice cream is a particular delight.
The Old Inn, Appin
Appetising repasts await at The Old Inn in Appin. A historic pub overlooking one of the west coast’s most fairytale castles, Castle Stalker, this characterful local is a welcome choice for warming fare. Step inside its atmospheric interiors, below its wooden ceiling strung with fairylights and past its exposed stone walls to the bar. With open shelves and ambient lighting, its array of bottles and local drams makes for an inviting proposition for pre-dinner aperitifs. Once you’ve selected your tipple of choice, relax around your table as delicious aromas drift from the kitchen and traditional Scottish dishes and hearty classics are expertly prepared for your delectation.
Poppies, Saulmore Shore
Poppies is a hidden idyll near Appin. Set above the water on Saulmore Shore, it enjoys far-reaching views across Dunstaffnage Castle, Ardmucknish Bay and the Firth of Lorne. Home to a verdant nursery, garden deli, and café, it’s a tranquil place to visit and relish a satiating lunch or light bite of soups, seafood, and home-made cakes and bakes. Sit outside on sunny days for a spot of alfresco dining, or head inside to enjoy the views from a window-side seat. Before you head off, take time to peruse the deli, lovingly stocked with ranges of local and sustainable produce and preserves.
The Waterfront Fishouse Restaurant, Oban
A renowned favourite amongst locals and visitors alike, The Waterfront Fishouse Restaurant is one of the finest places to eat in Oban. Open for nearly three decades, it has long been a magnetic destination for diners from all over the world. Head over to savour its scenic position on the waterfront and gaze at the views from the large windows that frame the harbour. Specialising in seafood, this restaurant is especially well-known for its fish and shellfish mains and sharing platters. Particularly sought-after is its group sharing platter, featuring whole lobster, hand-dressed crab, langoustine, oysters, mussels, scallops, salmon, seaweed slaw and more.
Isle of Lismore Café, Lismore
Should you feel like accompanying your meal with a little exploration, then let the Isle of Lismore Café capture your attention. Found within the island’s Gaelic Heritage Centre, this seasonal café is usually open between April and October each year and is a treat to visit during summer sojourns. Take the ferry from Port Appin and let the call of adventure guide you to the island, ready to uncover its breathtaking beauty spots. When you’re ready to refuel, make your way to the café where lunches are served fresh, including salad and vegetables grown on the island. Complement your lunch with a slice of homemade cake before continuing your journey around the ‘Great Garden’ of Lismore.
Feeling inspired for heavenly repasts? Uncover our collection of luxury cottages in Scotland.
