Restaurants in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire on the 2020 Michelin Guide
9 October 2019
Forks at the ready, the 2020 Michelin Guide has been released and eight (yes eight) restaurants in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire have made it onto the high-brow list.
Pull up a chair looking out to sea while dining on seafood straight from the fisherman’s net, devour woo-fired food while admiring original art or cosy up with comforting food within countryside retreats – no matter your taste preference there’s a Michelin Guide Restaurant waiting for you.
Here’s my mouth-watering run-down of the eight restaurants to make the 2020 guide (*caution* this blog contains content that will give you food envy!):
The Clunie Dining Room at the Fife Arms
All eyes have been on The Fife Arms since opening in November 2018, filling every room of the hotel with art from all over the world (including an original Picasso and watercolour by Queen Victoria). Making its debut on the Michelin Guide, The Clunie Dining showcases the art of woodfired cooking in the surroundings of an intriguing mural by Argentinian Artist Guillermo Kuitca who stayed in Braemar for several weeks to complete his masterpiece.
IX at the Chester
Peer through the theatre kitchen of the IX Restaurant at the Chester Hotel and spectate talented chefs to see the culinary expertise that’s injected into your meal. Explore a menu of delights that is shaped by the in-season produce offering a true reflection of the flavours of North-east Scotland.
Kildrummy Inn
Escape the city and relax in front of roaring log fire within peaceful countryside at Kildrummy Inn. Taste a menu which showcases the best of Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire’s larder through delicious dishes that ooze luxury and comforting tastes.
Moonfish Café
Just below the hustle and bustle of Union Street and nestled within Aberdeen’s historic Merchant Quarter, Moonfish Café provides a menu full of unique twists on British classics. With colourful plates made by a Masterchef runner up that are a delight for the eye and a menu that is constantly evolved, it is really no surprise that this restaurant makes its way back to the Michelin Guide.
The Rothesay Rooms
For a meal fit for a Prince, The Rothesay Rooms champions locally sourced produce in a traditional Scottish setting dressed in The Duke of Rothesay tartan. Originally set up by the Prince’s Foundation as an initiative to revive the community after Storm Frank destroyed the local area in 2015, this restaurant has become a must-eat dining experience.
The Cock & Bull
The Cock & Bull delivers award-winning food which has stolen hearts of all visitors to step through its doors. The warm and inviting AA rosette gastropub makes a return to the 2020 Michelin Guide with a menu bursting with Scottish flavour – the thought of the Blaggis (black pudding and haggis) Scotch Egg always makes me hungry!
The Tolbooth Seafood Restaurant
Taste amazing seafood at the Tolbooth Seafood Restaurant where the fish is supplied fresh from the nets of local fishermen. Add stunning views across the picturesque Stonehaven harbour and rustic charm to the mix, you'll soon discover why this restaurant features on the Michelin Guide.
The Silver Darling
Found right at the mouth of Aberdeen’s harbour in the medieval fishing quarter Footdee (pronounced Fittie by locals), The Silver Darling combines fine dining and contemporary interiors. With glass panels that stretch from floor to ceiling, the stretching Aberdeen golden coastline, docking ships and leaping dolphins act as the backdrop to your meal.
If reading this blog has made you hungry, visit the Michelin Guide page for more info on the 2020 guide restaurants and to (more importantly) book your table.