Mairi Thomson - Reading time: 2 minutes

The Outer Hebrides offers a rich and diverse culinary landscape, whether you're indulging in a fine dining experience, enjoying a casual meal in a local cafe-bar, grabbing a bite from a food truck, or exploring community shops for local produce.

So, if you're a food connoisseur or simply someone who appreciates good, honest food, the Outer Hebrides has something to satisfy every palate.

We have put together a "taster" of unmissable food and drink experiences for you!

RESTAURANTS

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1. North Harbour Bistro

Scalpay, Isle of Harris

Image: North Harbour Bistro

Nestled in the picturesque Scalpay, Isle of Harris, North Harbour Bistro offers a delightful seafood dining experience.

Renowned for its fresh, locally-sourced seafood, the bistro serves up exquisite dishes that capture the essence of the Hebrides. With stunning harbour views and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot for to savour the flavours of the sea!

2. The Boatshed at the Royal Hotel

Stornoway, Isle of Lewis

Image: The Boatshed

No visit to Stornoway is complete without dining at the Boatshed Restaurant in the historic Royal Hotel.

Enjoy fresh, locally caught seafood, Scottish beef, and award-winning Stornoway black pudding. With stunning views of Stornoway Harbour and Lews Castle, The Boatshed offers a cosy yet elegant atmosphere. Exceptional service and a varied wine selection make every meal memorable.

4. HS-1 Cafe Bar, Royal Hotel

Stornoway, Isle of Lewis

Image: HS-1 Cafe Bar

For a relaxed dining experience in Stornoway, visit HS-1. Located in the town centre, it offers stunning views of Stornoway Marina and Lews Castle.

Enjoy a café-style atmosphere with friendly service. The menu features diverse dishes like Murgh Makhani wraps, juicy burgers, and fresh local mussels. Complement your meal with cocktails, local gins, or beers. 

5. Eleven at the Caladh Inn

Stornoway, Isle of Lewis

Image: Eleven

Eleven Restaurant at the Caladh Inn in Stornoway is a local favourite, known for its warm atmosphere and friendly service.

The highlight is its renowned carvery, offering succulent roast beef, turkey, and pork with traditional side dishes. The buffet caters to all tastes with a variety of dishes, and the dessert bar features irresistible treats.

6. Cleaver at the Cabarfeidh Hotel

Stornoway, Isle of Lewis

Image: Cleaver

Cleaver Seafood and Grill at the 4-star Cabarfeidh Hotel offers seasonal menus with daily fish options.

Enjoy Leurbost mussels, Hebridean langoustines, scallops, braised blade of beef, and pan-fried duck breast. Complement your meal with a carefully selected wine. Indulge in elegant afternoon tea on selected days, featuring finger sandwiches, scones, and sweet treats. 

FOOD TRUCK 

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6. Lochmaddy Bay Prawns

Clachan Sands, North Uist

Image: Lochmaddy Bay Prawns

Lochmaddy Bay Prawns 2GO offers sustainable, creel-caught Scottish langoustine and prawns in creative, homemade dishes.

Check the latest menu for daily catches like squat lobster and dressed crab. Special occasion seafood platters are available with 48 hours’ notice, tailored to your requests. 

COMMUNITY SHOP

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7. Bùth Bharraigh

Castlebay, Barra

Image: Bùth Bharraigh

Bùth Bharraigh, established in 2013, evolved from Barra and Vatersay’s monthly markets into a year-round hub for local produce and crafts.

This volunteer-run social enterprise offers islanders and visitors access to food and drink, wholefoods, books, and craft supplies, while also providing free WiFi, a laundrette, and craft workshops. Profits are reinvested into the community, making Bùth Bharraigh a vibrant part of island life and an essential visit.

DISTILLERS

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8. Isle of Lewis Gin

Uig, Isle of Lewis

Image: Isle of Lewis Gin

Inspired by the unique machair of south-west Lewis, Iain and Laura founded Isle of Lewis Gin in 2022. Their gin blends local botanicals like mint, wild thyme, and heather with pure Lewis water, creating a refreshing, flavourful spirit.

Isle of Lewis gin captures the essence of Lewis, offering a perfect serve or cocktail addition for you to enjoy!

DON'T FORGET....

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You can find a full list here of Food and Drink places in the Outer Hebrides. You can also check out our downloadable Eat Drink Hebrides Trail Guide and Map here. If you are interested in Outer Hebrides Food and Drink recipes, click here to view our Taste of the Hebrides e-book.