- Eat & Drink
Taste the North-east
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In Scotland’s North-east, provenance isn’t just a trend, it’s our heritage. From the rugged coast to rolling farmland, this region is defined by a deep respect for ingredients and the people who craft them. Here, food and drink are more than something to savour, they are experiences to step into. From farm tours to behind-the-scenes distillery visits and guided tastings, the North-east invites you to get hands-on and discover the stories behind every bite and every dram.
Take a journey through some of the businesses capturing the true taste and spirit of the North-east.
Exceptional dining and local flavours
Whether you're looking for a refined tasting menu or a vibrant social spot, these venues define the region's contemporary food culture.
- Amuse by Kevin Dalgleish: A champion of seasonal, locally sourced produce, Amuse offers a refined North-east dining experience. Their Seasonal Market Menu provides great value with set prices, while the signature Six of The Best Tasting Menu highlights the chef's creative flair, with a new spring edition launching late March.
- Wild Goose: Perched over Union Terrace Gardens, this spot pairs panoramic views with a menu built on 100% Scottish spirits and locally sourced ingredients. Whether you’re stopping for a leisurely lunch, small plates, or a scenic cocktail, it offers an authentic taste of the North-east in a standout city-centre location.
- Mediterranean: Bringing the "gastronomic wonders" of the sun-kissed coast to Thistle Street, this vibrant eatery is a journey through the bold and delicate flavours of Greece, Italy, Morocco, Turkey, Spain, and beyond. Perfect for sharing plates in a relaxed yet vibrant setting.
Spirits, wine and stories
- Glen Garioch Distillery: As one of Scotland’s oldest distilleries, Glen Garioch is a cornerstone of regional heritage. Its robust Highland malt reflects generations of craft, patience and local pride.
- House of Elrick: Innovation meets tradition with the launch of their Hibiscus & Kaffir Gin, crisp, elegant, and vibrant addition to their range. Visitors can explore the craft and stories behind each spirit through immersive gin tastings.
- Grape & Grain: Nestled in Aberdeen’s West End, this luxurious, award-winning wine bar offers a sophisticated and warm atmosphere. Beyond an exceptional wine collection, they serve Scotland’s finest craft beers, premium spirits, and thoughtfully crafted food, making it an ideal spot for celebrating special occasions or unwinding with friends.
Hospitality with heart
- The Pennan Inn: This quintessential coastal inn offers honest food and warm hospitality. Perched right by the sea, it’s a place that invites guests to slow down and soak in the authentic character of the coast.
- Banchory Lodge: Nestled on the banks of the River Dee, this destination blends relaxed luxury with riverside tranquillity. It’s a standout choice for both locally sourced dining and scenic overnight stays.
- Forest Farm: As Scotland’s longest-established organic dairy, Forest Farm is famous for its award-winning gelato and artisan pizzas. Visitors can enjoy goodies under dome seating or bring home organic milk in reusable glass bottles. With a farm trail, playpark, and live milking experiences arriving this summer, it is a must-visit for families and foodies alike.
- Grampian Escapes & Tours: To truly understand the region, these curated food tours weave together local culture and history. Guests enjoy guided tastings and samples, gaining unique insight into how the landscape and people have shaped the North-east’s culinary identity.
From elegant tasting menus to working farms, historic distilleries to coastal inns, food and drink are the thread that tie together the North-east’s most memorable experiences.
Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or a longer stay, explore more things to see and do across Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire and start booking your own taste of the region today.
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