Written by Colin Fraser
The stories of towns in decline are never far from our ears here in the North-east of Scotland but when it comes to Stonehaven, it’s quite the opposite. When you’re on the lookout for somewhere to eat in Stonehaven, you’re never short of choice.
It’s one of those towns that has managed to keep its bustling town charm alive with plenty of independent cafes and shops lining its streets. Cafes, restaurants, parlours – you name it, it’s got it and here’s your run-through.
Where scenic harbour views meet sublime food, The Tolbooth Seafood Restaurant is a spot that will do more than float a food lover’s boat.
This tasteful restaurant is found in one of Stonehaven’s oldest buildings. Its origins started as a storehouse for the Earl Marischal while restorations of Dunnottar Castle were underway and now centuries later, fresh seafood caught right from the harbour front is in store. Lobster season lands from May to September so expect lobster dishes to feature on the menu.
Photography by @tolboothrestaurant
Watching over the hustle and bustle of Stonehaven harbour, The Old Pier Coffee House is no stranger to a footfall of hungry passers by on the lookout for good coffee and good food.
Its signature Croque toasties are a staple and the baguettes are packed – there’s nothing short of a fully loaded lunch here. And if it’s cake you’re after, you’ve come to the right place with bakes, pastries and Portuguese custard tarts in hearty stock.
Photography by @theoldpier
The vintage Italian ice cream and confectionary shop of Giulinotti’s has certainly etched its place in the heart of the Stonehaven community since opening in 1899.
From Turkish delight to licorice and cherry bakewell to Tunnock’s Tea Cake, expect an impressive range of ice cream, sorbet and frozen yoghurt flavours all made in the parlour. There’s even a mystical unicorn ice cream (I heard that ooh). Don’t forget to stock up on your sweets, there’s jars and jars of specialist chocolates and candies to peruse.
Photography by E Giulinotti
The Carron Fish Bar is where Scotland’s infamous deep fried Mars Bar was born. Take your pick of fish sourced from Peterhead Fish Market or get stuck into a burger sourced from the award-winning Charles McHardy Butcher.
With all eyes on preserving the planet, it was only a matter of time before Stonehaven’s first refillery and eco-shop opened its doors. Replenish brings together Scottish produce, zero waste products and vegetables fresh from the farm. In recent weeks its new electric van has hit the road delivering fresh fruit and veg box orders.
Simply bring your own jars and containers ready to stock up on your household essentials from the herbs for the kitchen to shampoos and cleaning products. You can even make your own peanut butter here with its very own churning machine to get you that 100% natural peanutty spread.
Photography by @replenishstonehaven
Photography by @replenishstonehaven
The cosy tearoom of the family-run Cool Gourmet awaits for a hearty meal to see you through the day. Whether it’s a full cooked breakfast or plate of stovies for lunch, there’s always a homemade option made from scratch.
Scones are the signature bake here with its Scone of the Day freshly baked in the morning to serve customers. On Saturdays its very own cheese and Stornoway black pudding makes an appearance on the cake counter (yes, I too just melted) and come Sunday, freshly made butteries add to the mix. Heaven if you ask me.
If the sweet tooth has you craving a pick ‘n’ mix or substantial ice cream scoop, the beachfront parlour of Aunty Betty’s will hit the spot perfectly. Find out more about Stonehaven’s prized sweet spot in my previous article.
Photography by @auntybettystonehaven
There’s nothing quite like a fish supper by the sea and if you’re looking for an eligible suitor, The Bay Fish & Chips is the perfect match. Right on the beachfront, it’s a prime location to take in the glorious seascape.
Sustainability is at the forefront here with all fish caught in the North Sea and farmed responsibly. Keep an eye on the Catch of the Day specials which feature the freshest of in-season fish sourced each morning.
You can even buy batches of its batter recipe to make your fish supper fakeaways at home.
Unwind in the sun lounge of one of the oldest inns on the Aberdeenshire coast. Built in 1771, The Ship Inn invites locals and visitors into its traditional lounge bar and restaurant for warm Scottish hospitality.
It’s a near-endless selection of beer, ale, whisky and Scottish craft gin in the lounge bar and in its Captain’s Table restaurant, expect plenty of seafood options. Whether you fancy a traditional plate of fish and chips or something a bit more contemporary – there’s an option for you. I hear its take on Cullen Skink is a must try.
If seafood isn’t your gig, fear not, an abundance of meat, vegan and vegetarian options await.
Photography by @shipinnstoney
Photography by @shipinnstoney
Coffee fans need to get Shamrock and Thistle on their list to try out its specialist selection of coffee beans all enhanced through well-matched brewing techniques.
Take a seat in its homely cafe and choose from iced coffee, cappuccino, latte, ethically sourced loose leaf tea – the works. Adding one of its waffles or crepes into the mix is essential too.
When afternoon tea comes knocking, Arduthie Tea Rooms is an ideal location. Served elegantly on a tiered stand with china crockery, its selection of homemade scones, cakes and finger sandwiches is a classy affair indeed.
And if you’re after lunch, take a seat in its cafe for a light bite or order one of its Body & Soul lunch boxes filled with either a quiche and salad selection or a ploughman’s cheese medley.
The ever so cute Villa Coffee Shop is open for sit in and takeaway of its award-winning menu. From breakfast rolls to homemade cakes and paninis to bumper main meals, you most certainly won’t go hungry here with its extensive menu.
Photography by The Villa Coffee Shop
That’s your whistle stop tour of where to eat in Stonehaven and I told you there was plenty to get stuck into. As always there is more to uncover, but let’s leave that for another day.
To keep up with my food escapades, follow on Instagram, read the blog and listen to the Dishin’ It podcast.
