10 Best Places to Eat on the Isle of Skye
The Isle of Skye, with its rugged landscapes, dramatic cliffs, and stunning coastline, is not only a paradise for outdoor lovers but also an emerging culinary destination. This beautiful island off Scotland’s west coast is known for its fresh local produce, from sustainable seafood caught in the surrounding waters to locally raised meats and seasonal vegetables grown on the island. Dining on the Isle of Skye is an experience in itself, with options ranging from cozy village pubs and rustic cafes to high-end restaurants offering gourmet Scottish cuisine with a modern twist. Many chefs here are passionate about using local, organic ingredients, creating menus that reflect the flavors of the region. Here are the top 10 places to eat on the Isle of Skye, where you can savor the island’s finest culinary offerings and discover a true taste of Scotland.
1. The Three Chimneys – Colbost
The Three Chimneys is a renowned, award-winning restaurant located in the small village of Colbost. Known for its luxurious and inventive approach to Scottish cuisine, The Three Chimneys focuses on showcasing Skye’s freshest produce, with ingredients sourced from local fishermen, crofters, and farmers. The restaurant’s rustic yet elegant setting, with views of the scenic Loch Dunvegan, provides a warm and intimate atmosphere that enhances the dining experience. Chef Scott Davies brings creativity to traditional dishes, crafting seasonal menus that change daily to highlight the island’s flavors.
Specialty: The "Skye, Land, and Sea" tasting menu is a true celebration of island produce, featuring dishes like Dunvegan crab, Loch Harport langoustine, and Black Isle beef. Each course is expertly paired with local foraged ingredients, adding earthy tones that complement the freshness of Skye’s seafood and meats. A highlight of the menu is the Isle of Skye venison, prepared with a juniper berry sauce and accompanied by roasted root vegetables. Another standout is the fresh hand-dived scallops, served with a buttery shellfish sauce and wild garlic from the local woods.
Location: Colbost, Isle of Skye
Local Tip: Book a table well in advance; this popular restaurant has limited seating and fills up quickly.
Rating: 5/5
2. Loch Bay – Stein
Nestled in the village of Stein on the Waternish Peninsula, Loch Bay offers an intimate fine-dining experience with a focus on Scottish seafood. This Michelin-starred restaurant, helmed by Chef Michael Smith, blends French culinary techniques with Scottish ingredients, creating refined, beautifully presented dishes. Loch Bay’s relaxed, cozy setting reflects the charm of Skye’s countryside, and the menu changes frequently to incorporate the freshest seasonal produce.
Specialty: The seafood tasting menu, which includes delicacies such as monkfish, lobster, and shellfish risotto, emphasizes local waters' bounty. The highlight is the Skye lobster, delicately poached and served with a bisque reduction and foraged sea greens, enhancing the lobster’s sweet, oceanic flavors. Another favorite is the monkfish wrapped in pancetta, which pairs beautifully with a saffron-infused beurre blanc, adding a subtle richness that complements the tender fish.
Location: Stein, Waternish Peninsula, Isle of Skye
Local Tip: Reserve a seat by the window for views of Loch Bay and a stunning sunset if you’re dining in the evening.
Rating: 4.9/5
3. The Old School Restaurant – Dunvegan
Located in a converted schoolhouse in Dunvegan, The Old School Restaurant is a charming, family-friendly spot offering a mix of traditional Scottish and contemporary dishes. The cozy atmosphere, with its vintage decor and warm lighting, makes it an inviting place for a relaxed meal. The menu emphasizes locally sourced produce, with an extensive selection of seafood, meat, and vegetarian options that highlight Skye’s natural flavors.
Specialty: The fish pie is a standout, made with smoked haddock, salmon, and prawns, all in a creamy sauce and topped with a buttery, golden mash. Another popular dish is the Highland lamb shank, slow-cooked in a rosemary and red wine reduction until tender, served with seasonal vegetables. The restaurant’s fresh shellfish platter, served with lemon butter and seaweed, is perfect for seafood lovers and offers a taste of Skye’s best catch.
Location: Dunvegan, Isle of Skye
Local Tip: Try the sticky toffee pudding for dessert—it’s made with a local recipe and pairs well with a single malt whisky.
Rating: 4.7/5
4. Seumas' Bar – Sligachan
Located within the Sligachan Hotel, Seumas' Bar is a lively pub known for its extensive whisky collection and hearty pub food. The bar has a relaxed, rustic vibe and is popular with hikers and travelers. With a menu featuring Scottish classics like fish and chips, venison burgers, and haggis, Seumas' Bar is the perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring Skye’s landscapes.
Specialty: The venison burger, topped with Isle of Skye cheddar and caramelized onions, is a flavorful and filling option. For whisky lovers, the bar offers tasting flights with whiskies from local distilleries, enhancing the dining experience with a true taste of Scotland.
Location: Sligachan, Isle of Skye
Local Tip: Try one of the bar’s whisky tasting flights for a curated experience of Scotland’s finest whiskies.
Rating: 4.5/5
5. The Oyster Shed – Carbost
The Oyster Shed is a casual, family-run seafood spot in Carbost offering fresh oysters, seafood platters, and other local delicacies. With stunning views of Loch Harport and a simple outdoor setup, The Oyster Shed is perfect for a quick, delicious meal after visiting the nearby Talisker Distillery. This rustic eatery emphasizes fresh, sustainable seafood, and the oysters are hand-harvested daily from Skye’s pristine waters.
Specialty: The oyster platter, served with lemon and a light mignonette sauce, is a fresh, briny treat. The smoked salmon, sourced from local waters, pairs perfectly with freshly baked bread, while the seafood platter, featuring crab, langoustines, and scallops, offers a comprehensive taste of Skye’s marine bounty.
Location: Carbost, Isle of Skye
Local Tip: Enjoy your meal with a view of Loch Harport—ideal after a Talisker whisky tasting nearby.
Rating: 4.8/5
6. The Edinbane Inn – Edinbane
The Edinbane Inn is a traditional Scottish pub with a contemporary twist, offering both classic pub fare and modern Scottish dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. Known for its live music sessions and friendly service, the inn creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere that’s popular among both locals and visitors. The menu highlights seasonal produce, game meats, and fresh seafood from the surrounding waters.
Specialty: The Edinbane venison stew, slow-cooked with root vegetables and herbs, is rich and hearty. The fresh scallops, seared to perfection and served with a garlic butter sauce, are another must-try, showcasing Skye’s seafood quality.
Location: Edinbane, Isle of Skye
Local Tip: Visit on a Saturday for live folk music that adds to the lively atmosphere.
Rating: 4.6/5
7. Café Cùil – Uig
Café Cùil, located in the scenic village of Uig, is a cozy, contemporary cafe specializing in locally sourced, organic ingredients. The cafe has a relaxed, homely feel with views overlooking the bay, and offers a menu featuring vegan and vegetarian options alongside traditional Scottish fare. It’s an excellent spot for breakfast, brunch, or a casual lunch before exploring the northern parts of the island.
Specialty: The smoked salmon and scrambled eggs on homemade sourdough bread is a popular brunch option, full of flavor and freshness. The mushroom and wild garlic soup, made from locally foraged ingredients, is both comforting and aromatic.
Location: Uig, Isle of Skye
Local Tip: Pair your meal with their artisan coffee for a truly satisfying experience.
Rating: 4.5/5
8. Dulse & Brose – Portree
Dulse & Brose, located in Portree, offers a modern take on classic Scottish cuisine in a warm, inviting setting. With a focus on local ingredients, the restaurant’s seasonal menu celebrates the natural bounty of the Isle of Skye. From seafood to game meats, Dulse & Brose provides an authentic taste of the island’s finest produce, presented with a contemporary twist.
Specialty: The wild venison fillet, pan-seared and served with a juniper berry sauce, is tender and flavorful. The Skye langoustine, cooked in garlic butter, is another highlight that perfectly complements the menu’s fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Location: Portree, Isle of Skye
Local Tip: Book in advance for a dinner reservation, as this popular spot fills up quickly.
Rating: 4.8/5
9. Rosedale Hotel Restaurant – Portree
Set within the charming Rosedale Hotel, this restaurant offers a menu that features both classic Scottish dishes and international favorites. The focus here is on simplicity and quality, with fresh seafood and hearty mains that provide a satisfying dining experience. Overlooking Portree Harbour, the restaurant offers beautiful views that complement the warm, welcoming ambiance.
Specialty: The seafood chowder, creamy and rich, includes chunks of fresh fish, scallops, and shrimp, making it the perfect dish for a cool evening. The beef and ale pie, with tender beef slow-cooked in a local ale, is comforting and full of flavor.
Location: Portree, Isle of Skye
Local Tip: Try their house-made desserts, especially the cranachan, for a sweet ending.
Rating: 4.7/5
10. Scorrybreac – Portree
Scorrybreac, an intimate fine-dining restaurant overlooking Portree Harbour, offers a sophisticated menu with a focus on local seafood and meats. Owned by Chef Calum Munro, Scorrybreac brings a refined approach to Scottish ingredients, presenting dishes that are both elegant and true to Skye’s culinary heritage. The tasting menu is designed to showcase the best of the island’s produce, enhanced by the chef’s creative flair.
Specialty: The tasting menu features highlights like Skye crab with lemon foam, local lamb served with a mint jus, and homemade elderflower sorbet for a refreshing end. The use of seasonal, foraged ingredients brings unique flavors to each dish, making it an unforgettable experience.
Location: Portree, Isle of Skye
Local Tip: Arrive early for a pre-dinner stroll along the harbor for spectacular views of the coastline.
Rating: 5/5
Each of these top restaurants and cafes on the Isle of Skye offers a unique taste of Scotland, blending local ingredients with creativity and tradition. Whether you’re after a casual seafood feast or a fine-dining experience, Skye’s culinary landscape promises unforgettable meals in unforgettable settings.
More from
European Islands
Category
