Indulge Your Taste Buds in Braemar
Braemar, a picturesque village in the heart of the Cairngorms, is not just a stunning destination for a relaxing break or an action-packed activity holiday. It’s also an excellent base for treating your taste buds and trying different types of cuisine. Though small in stature, Braemar is a lively hub with a thriving food and drink scene. Whatever your preferences, you’re guaranteed to find the perfect dish during your stay. This guide is all about indulging yourself and finding the best places to eat in Braemar. We’ve put together a handy list of the top spots for your trip to the Highlands.
Top Places to Eat in Braemar
Braemar delivers offerings that far exceed expectations considering its diminutive size. This is a compact village that packs a serious punch when it comes to treating visitors to delicious dining options. The beauty of Braemar’s directory of restaurants, pubs and cafes is that it caters to everyone. From superb pub grub to decadent cakes and fresh, seasonal produce, there’s something for everyone. Here’s our pick of the best places to eat in Braemar:
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The Bothy Braemar
The Bothy Braemar is a stalwart of the Braemar culinary scene, delivering fabulous breakfasts, brunches, lunches and cakes. Boasting a cosy ambience, it’s the perfect place to retreat to after a blustery walk or fuel up for a day out exploring the wilds. Open every day from morning until late afternoon, the Bothy serves everything from freshly baked sponges and tarts to indulgent Scottish breakfasts, warming bowls of homemade soup and hot sandwiches. Pop in for a coffee, meet friends for lunch, or celebrate a special occasion in a friendly, relaxed setting with spectacular food and drinks.
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Farquharson’s Bar & Kitchen
One of the top-rated eateries in Braemar, Farquharson’s Bar & Kitchen has an excellent reputation among locals and tourists. An inviting traditional Highland pub, it specialises in elevated comfort food. Expect flavourful stews, fresh fish and chips and Sunday roasts that sell out week in, week out. This is the place to be to warm up in winter and enjoy mesmerising scenic views in the summer. The spacious beer garden is ideal for soaking up the summer sunshine and refuelling after a hike or bike ride. Open from 11am until late, it’s a perfect spot for lunch, dinner or drinks.
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The Flying Stag
If you’re looking for a quintessential village pub that doubles up as the centre of the community, look no further than The Flying Stag. For years, this social hub that just happens to serve fantastic food and drinks has attracted locals and visitors alike. The menu is great, but perhaps the main draw is the hospitality. The pub really comes alive on live music nights, which run twice a week and showcase talented Scottish musicians. Look out for the Flying Stag centrepiece, which hangs joyfully above the famous bar. Highlights on the menu include fish and chips, Sunday roasts, burgers and pies. If you’re after a tipple, you won’t be disappointed by the extensive selection of beers and whiskies.
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The Fife Arms
One of the most prestigious hotels in the Highlands, The Fife Arms is not just a place to rest your weary head. It also boasts an impressive array of restaurants and bars designed to cater to all occasions. From seasonal produce served with flair at the Clunie and hearty fare at The Flying Stag to sumptuous cocktails at Elsa’s and a smorgasbord of whiskies at Bertie’s bar, you’ll be spoiled for choice.
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Gordon’s Tea Room
Gordon’s Tea Room is another fine offering from The Fife Arms. A hop, skip and a jump away from the hotel, it occupies an enviable location in the heart of the village. Boasting a friendly, welcoming atmosphere and open to canine companions, it is renowned for its top-notch selection of hot drinks, pastries, light bites and cakes. The cafe is open from Wednesday to Sunday from 10am until 4pm.
7. The Highlanders Bakehouse
Fans of the infamous Highlanders Bakehouse, rejoice! A new shop is now up and running in Braemar, offering a dazzling selection of homemade breads and cakes. As well as all the classics you’d expect from a first-class bakery, you’ll also find Scottish delicacies aplenty. If you’re out and about exploring the region, you can also sample tasty treats from the Crathie store.
8. Invercauld Mews Bar
A bijou bar with a familiar, cosy feel, Invercauld Mews Bar is a popular base for drinks for locals and visitors. Known for its craft beers and whiskies, it’s a wonderful place to raise a glass with friends or kick back in front of the fire with a refreshing pint after a busy day. The Invercauld Hotel is currently closed, but the bar remains open. Look out for events, such as quiz nights and pool competitions.
9. The Plaice to Be, Braemar
No foodie voyage of discovery in the Highlands is complete without a trip to a traditional fish and chip shop. If you’re on the hunt for a chippy, check out The Plaice to Be. Here, you can pick up freshly fried fish and chips, drinks and alternative dishes if you fancy a change. It’s worth checking opening times, as they may vary according to the season.
Wrapping Up: Where to Eat in Braemar
Braemar offers an incredible array of cafes, pubs and restaurants for visitors enjoying a stay in the Cairngorms. There’s a fantastic list of places to visit, whether you’re craving a sweet treat or a sumptuous pub dinner. From cakes and light bites in relaxed, informal settings to seasonal produce beautifully presented in smart, sophisticated restaurants, there’s something for everyone.
If you’re planning an adventure in the Highlands or looking for a romantic getaway in Braemar, we’d love to welcome you at Bruachdryne Braemar Accommodation. Contact us to find out more today.