Restaurants Top 10

Eating is a very subjective experience that is why we have nominated here those restaurants that have been awarded for food excellence by accredited third party bodies like the AA with their Rosette scheme or Grampian Food Forum. The restaurants are listed in alphabetical order.

Banchory Lodge Hotel A member of the Scotch Beef Club, Banchory Lodge's commitment to food excellence and promotion of local produce was awarded by the AA with a rosette award in 2008-2009. Fish and shellfish are sourced from local independent suppliers, who share Banchory Lodge's commitment to food quality and traceability. A riverside location in the town of Banchory completes the package of a fine dining experience

Cow Shed Restaurant A new restaurant with superb views over the Hill of Fayre and serving modern Scottish Food including fresh seafood dishes and the best of Scottish beef and game. The wine cellar offers a wide selection of styles and prices to complete the dining experience. Open for lunch and dinner Tuesday - Saturday and our traditional Sunday lunch is served from 12 noon.

Darroch Learg Hotel & Restaurant The restaurant opens out into a conservatory with a southerly aspect which captures the summer evening sun. The food is sophisticated and has been awarded three rosettes by the AA each year since 1997. Beef, lamb, venison and game are sourced locally and fish and shellfish is delivered from Aberdeen and the west coast. A fine wine list was the first in Scotland to be awarded Wine List of the Year in 1997. The restaurant is situated in Ballater.

The Green Inn Situated centrally in Ballater, this AA 3 rosette awarded restaurant, truly lives up to the culinary excellence reputation. Prior to becoming Head Chef at the Inn, Chris O Halloran, spent time training at Le Manoir aux Quat' Saisons, Raymond Blanc's renowned Hotel near Oxford, which has influenced the style of cuisine whilst utilising the very best of local produce. Family run, the O Hallorans, have thought of everything that is required to make your visit to the Green Inn an event!

Loch Kinord Hotel Situated in Dinnet, the Loch Kinord Hotel, proudly showcases the best of ‘Scotland’s natural larder’ in a simple style that allows the local flavours to thrive and delight your palate. A bold strategy that received recognition from the winning of an AA rosette award. Whether staying at the hotel, or just dining you can be assured of a warm welcome by the team at Loch Kinord.

The Lui Restaurant The Lui Restaurant enjoys views over Ballater Golf Course and the Cairngorm mountain range. Evening diners will enjoy the warm ambiance and there are always Red Squirrels visible at breakfast time. Our menu dishes are prepared to order using as much fresh local ingredients as possible. If you should require something special because of your dietary needs please let us know and we will do whatever we can to accommodate you.

The Marcliffe Our Conservatory Restaurant serves breakfast, lunch (outside in summer) and dinner. Our team of chefs specialise in Grampian Region produce - Aberdeen Angus beef, game, and fish and shellfish from local rivers and ports. The wine cellar holds more than 400 choice wines, chosen from around the world. Whether you are looking for a light lunch or a full dinner menu, the conservatory restaurant is the place to dine. Our extensive menu of the finest cuisine and the best of wines, served in relaxed, elegant surroundings ensuring a memorable dining experience.

Potarch Hotel Using fresh produce, locally sourced where possible, the Potarch Hotel provides quality dining in a relaxed atmosphere, exemplified by a warm ambience and friendly, efficient service. Our seasonal menu offers a variety of dishes, best described as modern Scottish cuisine.

Raemoir House Hotel One of the finest country house hotels in the Highlands, Raemoir, kicks off with an impressive start through its architectural stature and wooded setting. The good news is that the wrapping lives up to the gift, that is dining here! 2 AA rosettes consistently awarded since 1996 are your guarantee of excellence. All dining guests are welcomed and there is no requirement to be resident in the hotel. Raemoir is situated to the north of Banchory off the A980.

Tor Na Coille's Royal Deeside Restaurant  Join us for a memorable evening in elegant surroundings featuring our Lounge Pianist on certain Weekend Dates through 2012. Canapes are served in the Lounge and an A La Carte Menu created using only the finest Scottish & Local produce showcasing the talent of our Kitchen Team & Head Chef Robert Ramsay. For Reservations call today on 01330 822242