11 of the best seafood shacks in Scotland

Where? 

Find the Lobster Shack nestled in the harbour of the popular seaside town of North Berwick in East Lothian, only 20 miles outside of Edinburgh.

Why the Lobster Shack?

The seafood is brought in directly from the boats in the harbour, ensuring the finest quality and freshness. All their delicious food is served in eco-friendly and biodegradable packaging and they have a fully covered and heated outdoor dining area, so you can enjoy your food no matter the weather! Alternatively, get your meal to takeaway and admire the views on one North Berwick's beaches, with views out across to the iconic Bass Rock. 

Must try dishes:

• Fish tacos 
• Chowder
• Grilled North Berwick lobster

Where?

Anstruther is one of the picturesque fishing villages that make up the East Neuk of Fife, full of colourful houses with orange-tiled roofs dotted along the harbour. 

Why The Shellfish Shack?

It offers such a rich variety of freshly cooked fish and shellfish to try from the east coast of Scotland. There's nothing like eating some fresh seafood right by the sea on a summer's evening, and you can make the experience even more memorable by choosing your own live lobster from the tank - it doesn't get much more fresh than that!

Must try dishes:

• Seafood platter
• Salmon & pesto encroute
• Stuffed crab claws

Please note that The Shellfish Shack is open seasonally to offer the best fresh shellfish, so double check it's open to avoid disappointment.

Where? 

The village of Carbost on the Isle of Skye, near the Talisker Distillery and rugged Talisker Bay.

Why the Oyster Shed Farm Shop?

As the name suggests, the Oyster Shed Farm Shop is the place to go to sample the very best oysters that Skye has to offer, selling Pacific oysters grown in the crystal-clear waters of nearby Loch Harport. The farm shop also sells other goods, such as their miso and nori seaweed butter, and you can even get the chance to shuck your own oysters with expert advice on hand.

Must try dishes: 

• Oysters (of course)
• Hot smoked salmon and chips

Where? 

The harbour town of Ullapool in the Northern Highlands, where you can start your Scottish adventure by catching a ferry out to the Outer Hebrides. 

Why The Seafood Shack?

The Seafood Shack is a true gem, set up by two local lassies who have won many awards for their excellent seafood. The menu is ever-changing to showcase what's best in fresh, including local oysters, scallops, mussels and trout. They also cater for gluten free and no dairy options. 

Must try dishes:

• Cullen skink served with bread
• Ullapool smoked trout and salad

Where? 

Situated in the small village of Ellenabeich, just 16 miles south of Oban on Scotland’s west coast.

Why The Oyster Bar?

Like many on this list, The Oyster Bar offers up a seasonal menu using fresh and locally sourced ingredients. They have an outdoor seating area that looks out onto the Atlantic, taking in the views of the islands of Scarba and Jura. Not in the mood for seafood? No problem; they offer plenty of non-seafood options including steak and ale pie, chilli con carne and a selection of burgers.

Must try dishes:

• Wholetail scampi with chips, peas and tartare sauce
• Langoustines

Where?

The bustling town of Oban in Argyll,  on the west coast of Scotland.

Why the Oban Seafood Hut?

The Oban Seafood Hut is well-known as a seafood lovers' paradise with lobster, scallops and crab available on the menu. Their high quality seafood is cooked fresh to order, plus they have a great alfresco dining spot with sea views overlooking Oban Bay so you can watch the boats bob on the waves. 

Must try dishes:

• Prawn sandwich
• Scallops in hot garlic butter

Where? 

Near the village of Tarbert in Argyll, on the west coast of Scotland.

Why Skipness Seafood Cabin?

Skipness Seafood Cabin is rated number 1 for places to eat in Skipness on TripAdvisor, and it isn't hard to see why! They're proud supporters of sustainable fishing, and all of their langoustine is creel caught. They also sell extra treats such as cake and mini tubs of Mackie’s ice cream so you can finish off your meal with something sweet. They open for the season at the end of May, so it's the perfect spot for summer seafood with a view. 

Must try dishes:

• Hot-smoked salmon roll
• Skipness seafood platter

Where? 

Fionnphort on the Isle of Mull, where you can catch the 10 minute ferry crossing to the historic Isle of Iona. 

Why The Creel Seafood Bar?

Their mouth-watering seafood is caught locally in the waters surrounding Mull and Iona, from scallops and mussels to crispy langoustines and prawns. They also serve teas, coffees and other drinks. It's the ideal spot to grab a bite before you catch the ferry over to Iona, or just to admire the incredible views from this part of the island. 

Must try dishes:

• Salt and pepper squid and chips
• Battered scallops and chips

Where? 

The colourful waterfront village of Tobermory on the Isle of Mull.

Why Fisherman’s Pier Fish & Chip Van?

The Fisherman's Pier Fish & Chip Van holds the prestigious ‘Les Routiers’ award, with every fish, scallop and delicacy caught daily from the sea and cooked to perfection. It's also the ideal setting for a chippy whilst you watch the sun set over the harbour.

Must try dishes:

• Haddock
• Scallops

Where? 

Housed in a converted horsebox in the harbour town of Stonehaven, just south of Aberdeen and near the epic Dunnottar Castle. 

Why The Seafood Bothy?

The menu varies depending on the day’s catch from the owner’s very own boat! You can guarantee delicious seafood salad platters, wraps, baguettes, pies and more whilst you admire the pretty sea views from the harbour in this bustling town.

Must try dishes:

• Toasted crab and cheese sandwich
• Lobster and prawn burrito

Where?

Shieldaig in Wester Ross in the northwest Highlands.

Why Nanny’s?

Nanny's boasts a mouth-watering variety of dishes, light bites and specials - make sure you try the Squat lobster which is a firm favourite amongst locals and visitors! They also cook up a range of breakfast options and a tasty selection of home-baking.

Must try dishes:

• Hot breakfast rolls 
• Squat lobster