NC500 – Where To Eat

The NC500 - Where To Eat

The North Coast 500 (NC500) is a road trip like no other – a 516-mile journey that introduces many to the rugged and remote terrain of northern Scotland. The route has something for everyone, whether they be a history buff, nature-lover or adrenaline junkie, but it also has something that unites all – incredible hospitality and cuisine! 

With historic pubs, world-famous fine dining and fresh seafood around every corner, the NC500 is not just an iconic road trip – it’s an authentic culinary adventure! The Highlands are brimming with places that celebrate local, seasonal ingredients and innovative expertise. So, forget endless supermarket picnics and packed lunches as we’ve compiled some highlights of Highland hospitality – this is your fun, factual, and authentic guide to fuelling your NC500 journey!

If you’re still deciding whether this route is right for you, start with our NC500 overview first. If you’re ready to plan, you’re in the right place.

Fine Dining & Destination Eateries

While the Highlands are rugged, the quality of cooking is anything but. The NC500 boasts several establishments where you’ll want to pre-book months in advance for a memorable evening!

  • The Kylesku Hotel (Kylesku): Situated right on the loch, this spot offers spectacular views alongside modern dishes that hero ultra-fresh, locally landed seafood, particularly langoustines and crab.
  • Peet’s Restaurant  (Lochinver): A family-friendly restaurant down by the harbour offering traditional Scottish fare alongside classic dishes and homemade desserts.
  • Delilah’s Restaurant & Bar (Lochinver): A family-run spot that thrives on community spirit and seasonal ingredients.
  • Rocpool Restaurant (Inverness): While technically off-route, this is the perfect celebratory stop either before or after your Highland escape. This place is well-known for contemporary Scottish and European cuisine with stunning river views.

Seafood Specials: Shacks & Shops

You are driving around the coast most of the time – it’s ok to start craving seafood! These are the places that take ‘fresh’ seriously, often serving you produce landed mere hours before. Bring cash, as many harbourside gems are small and remote.

  • The Seafood Shack (Ullapool): Don’t let the casual name fool you – this is a true hidden gem. It’s renowned for high-quality, locally landed fish and shellfish, prepared with flair
  • The Galley (Scrabster): An award-winning seafood restaurant that doles out delicious, no-fuss dishes.
  • Deli-ca-sea Fish & Chips (Ullapool): Ullapool is a significant fishing port, meaning any of the chippies here is a safe bet, but the atmosphere down near the harbour is unbeatable.

Popular Pubs: Historic Hospitality

For a comforting evening meal or a proper Scottish lunch, you can’t beat a traditional pub or bar.

  • The Old Inn (Gairloch): A popular pub/restaurant with a focus on local produce and a cosy, traditional atmosphere. 
  • The Ceilidh Place (Ullapool): An iconic institution! This hotel/bookshop/music venue offers fantastic, well-priced food with a focus on Highland ingredients. Great for lunch or dinner!
  • The Tongue Hotel (Tongue): A classic Highland establishment offering a cosy bar and dining room. Perfect for trying a local whisky alongside your main course.
  • The Plockton Inn (Plockton): A classic West Coast pub serving comforting, hearty meals. Famous for its fish and chips and welcoming, lively atmosphere: a great spot to mingle with locals and fellow travellers.

Coffee & Cake: Essential Stops

Fuelling yourself with caffeine and sugar is just as important as fuelling your van! These spots are perfect for a mid-morning break or a late-afternoon sugar rush.

  • The Storehouse (Evanton): A beautifully converted farm building offering excellent coffee, hearty lunches, and a great selection of local produce to stock up on.
  • Cocoa Mountain (near Durness): Famous for its vibrant hot chocolate (seriously, it’s a destination in itself) and handmade truffles. A perfect warm-up after visiting Smoo Cave or Balnakeil Beach.
  • Lochinver Larder (Lochinver): A brilliant stop for coffee, homemade cakes, and gourmet deli items perfect for assembling a picnic lunch on the road.
balnakeil beach from above

Van-Life Cooking: Go Local

If you’re self-catering, make sure to support the local community by skipping the big chains.

  • Butchers: Look for small local businesses in towns like Wick or Tain for high-quality Highland beef, lamb, or venison.
  • Bakeries: Stop at community-run bakeries (often just small huts or corners in village shops) for fresh bread, oatcakes, and the ubiquitous, comforting tattie scone (essential for a full Scottish breakfast!)
  • Farm Shops: Small honesty boxes, particularly around the Black Isle, offer fresh eggs, seasonal vegetables, and homemade preserves. Bring cash!

Want Help Planning Your Trip?

If you’d like a second opinion or help tailoring the route to your exact needs, we offer personalised trip planning calls.

These are ideal if:

  • It’s your first time on the route

  • You’re short on time

  • You’re travelling by campervan

  • You want reassurance before booking

You’ll speak directly with people who’ve driven the NC500 themselves and understand what works in practice – not just in theory.

👉 Book a planning call

Ready to Take the Next Step?

You don’t need to have everything figured out at once. Start with a clear understanding of the route, choose a pace that feels comfortable, and build from there.

From here, you can:

👉 Explore NC500 itineraries

👉 Hire a campervan suited to the route

👉 Buy the NC500 travel guide