The 6 Best Places to Eat around Aviemore
Whether you’re visiting the Cairngorms in the winter and need to warm up in a cosy pub, or you’re here in the summer and want a big beer garden to enjoy the long days, we’ve rounded up our favourite 6 places to settle down and enjoy some Highland hospitality.
1. The Old Bridge Inn, Aviemore
photo credit: the Old bridge inn
Tucked away on the banks of the river Spey is this hugely popular gastro pub. In the winter you can sit inside by the log fire and make your way through the huge array of whisky on offer, and in the summer you can take your food and drink outside into the biggest beer garden in Aviemore. Keep an eye on their Facebook page for special events and live DJs.
2. Cheese and Tomatin, Aviemore
photo credit: cheese and tomatin
This relative newcomer has taken over the former Mountain Café spot and serves up freshly baked sourdough pizzas all day long. They have a huge wood-fired oven which bakes the homemade sourdough bases to perfection. Top tip: try the Mediterranean Medley which has olives, red onion, feta cheese, sundried tomatoes and balsamic glaze.
3. Anderson’s, Boat of Garten
photo credit: Anderson’s restaurant
Located in the peaceful village of Boat of Garten, just north of Aviemore, Anderson’s Restaurant has a laid back and informal atmosphere welcoming families and couples alike.
Their dishes are lovingly prepared using the best fresh ingredients and Scottish produce when it is in season. Creative yet simple, you’ll come away feeling like you’ve had something a bit different.
It is worthwhile keeping an eye on their website or Facebook page for their events such as Wednesday Pie night – a firm favourite with locals! A delicious homemade pie with fresh vegetables, chips or mash with a glass of wine or beer to wash it all down for just £18!
Their woodfire pizza, which can also be taken away, offers all the Italian classics with a Scottish twist! Orders can be placed online at www.andersonspizza.co.uk where you can choose your pick up time.
4. Alvie Forest Food, Alvie Estate
photo credit: alvie forest foods
This food truck, run by former Old Bridge Inn head chef Chris McCall, opened in spring 2020 and has been a local’s favourite ever since. Chris takes inspiration from the forest around him and creates a menu of seasonal and locally foraged ingredients. We’ve eaten more short rib burgers from this food truck than we care to admit – and can’t recommend them enough.
5. The Old Post Office, Kincraig
photo credit: the old post office
You’ll find fresh bagels, flatbreads and salads at this family-owned café in the Highland village of Kincraig. A stone’s thrown from Loch Insh and Uath Lochans, it’s a delicious stop-off before or after a day exploring the local area. Their coffees are great and the café also houses original art by owner Ann Vastano which is available to buy.
6. Rowan Tree Hotel, Loch Alvie
photo credit: rowan tree hotel
Small, cosy and family run, the Rowan Tree Hotel, which overlooks Loch Alvie, has 12 individual rooms and a restaurant. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, the menu has been created by award-winning chef, Calum Cousins, and consists of traditional Scottish fare alongside some original recipes.
These are just 6 of the many restaurants/eateries in the Aviemore area, each with its own unique style and selling point. We’re always delighted to see new businesses pop up and will keep you in the loop when we think there’s somewhere you need to know about.
*banner photo: tasty looking beets from the Old Bridge Inn