Argyll's Best Food & Drink Locations

Oban must be amongst my favourite foodie getaway destinations in Argyll & the Isles. Known as the ‘Seafood Capital of Scotland’, this bustling coastal gem is easily reached via car as well as public transport, making it a fantastic staycation destination.

During my latest trip, I arrived in Oban in the early evening and headed to one of my favourite spots that combines beautiful views over Oban Bay with delicious, fresh seafood - Ee-Usk. Known for its fresh, locally sourced produce, I tucked into some fresh oysters followed by some delicious oven-baked Halibut whilst watching the sun slowly set over Oban Bay. Another one of my favourite spots for some classic fish & chips would be the Oban Inn, a lovingly decorated 18th-century pub with a wide selection of local ales, spirits and delicious pub food.

Back in Oban, I was on the hunt for a final seafood lunch before hopping on the train back to Glasgow. Having heard a lot of positive things about the Green Shack at Oban’s Harbour, I ventured past the train station down the CalMac Pier. This Oban institution was set up by fisherman John Ogden in 1990 to sell seafood caught by local fishermen. I ordered a seafood platter and sat down at the outdoor communal table to tuck into my selection of shellfish, oysters and crab sandwiches whilst watching the ferries to the Hebrides coming and going. It doesn’t get much better than this!

If you love seafood the way I do, make sure to take a look at the Wild About Argyll Seafood Trail, which provides you with plenty of inspiration for your next seafood adventure!

On another trip to Argyll, I was heading ‘doon the water' towards Argyll’s Secret Coast on the Cowal Peninsula. The short ferry journey from Gourock takes you straight to Dunoon, a bustling Victorian seaside town with plenty to discover. Dunoon also hosts the Cowal Highland Gathering, one of the biggest Highland Games in the UK, and CowalFest, an annual walking festival.

First on my list is The Blairmore a short drive from Dunoon. The small café on the shore of Loch Long offers locally sourced produce, lots of home baking, and spectacular views. As soon as I stepped in, owner Helen welcomed me with a warm smile and a list of things I’d need to try. I opted for a vegan lunch followed by a slice of carrot cake that was simply out of this world.

Vegans are very well catered for in Argyll, with a wide selection of eateries offering excellent vegan food as key dishes on their menus, or wholly dedicated to vegan only. You can discover more vegan restaurants on the UK’s first Vegan Trail.

The historic town of Inveraray on the banks of Loch Fyne is not only a haven for foodies. Established in 1745 by the 3rd Duke of Argyll, head of the Clan Campbell, there are also loads of things to do, from exploring Inveraray Jail and Inveraray Castle to browsing the great independent shops. What’s more, the town is packed with great places to eat and drink.

I have a deep-running passion for a good brunch. So, on my last trip, I had to stop at Ocho Inveraray. The warm, friendly ambience of the restaurant feels like you’re enjoying a meal in your friend's living room – if your friend happened to be an extremely talented chef. I tried their whipped goats cheese bruschetta whilst my friend opted for a hot salmon brunch. Their commitment to using fresh, local produce was evident in every bite, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring Inveraray.