Where to Eat in One of the Highlands’ Most Scenic Villages
Lochinver, a charming village on Scotland’s NC500 route, may be small in size but it offers a surprisingly rich food scene. From fresh Highland seafood to hearty homemade pies and cosy cafés overlooking the harbour, Lochinver gives visitors plenty of local flavours to enjoy after a day of exploring Assynt’s lochs, beaches, and walking trails.
Below is a guide to some of the local restaurants and eateries in Lochinver, each offering a welcoming taste of Highland hospitality.
Peet’s Restaurant
Peet’s Restaurant is a long-standing favourite in Lochinver, known for serving freshly caught seafood, Highland classics, and generous portions in a warm, relaxed setting. With its harbour views and seasonal menu, it’s an excellent choice for evening meals — especially for those wanting local langoustines, scallops, or traditional Scottish dishes.
Lochinver Larder
Loved across Scotland, Lochinver Larder is famous for its exceptional handmade pies. Whether you enjoy steak, venison, vegetarian fillings, or sweet options, there’s something for everyone. Visitors can dine in with views over the river or grab a pie to enjoy during their NC500 journey. A true Lochinver staple.
Delilah’s Restaurant & Bar
Delilah’s blends modern Scottish cuisine with fresh, local ingredients in a stylish yet relaxed environment. Offering an inviting menu and friendly service, it’s popular with visitors looking for a refined dining experience after a day exploring the Highlands.
An Cala Café & Bunkhouse
Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or a casual coffee stop, An Cala overlooks the harbour and provides a cosy space for homemade soups, sandwiches, cakes, and warm drinks. It’s an easy, welcoming spot for travellers and walkers passing through the village.
Wayfarers’ Bar
A friendly local bar offering hearty pub meals, classic favourites, and a relaxed atmosphere. With occasional live music and a warm community feel, Wayfarers’ Bar is ideal for unwinding at the end of the day.
Opening hours may be seasonal, so it’s best to check ahead.
Inbhir Brunches
Inbhir Brunches is a small, casual stop for simple meals, light bites, and friendly service. While offerings may vary seasonally, it’s a handy choice for travellers wanting something quick and local before heading back out to explore Assynt.
Inver Lodge Restaurant
Situated within Inver Lodge Hotel, Inver Lodge restaurant offers beautiful views over Lochinver Bay and a menu inspired by Highland produce. It’s a peaceful setting for a relaxed evening meal, with dishes that often highlight local seafood, venison, and seasonal ingredients.
As with many rural venues, opening dates may vary — checking ahead is recommended.
Stay Close to Lochinver’s Best Local Restaurants
After enjoying the flavours of Lochinver, there’s nothing better than returning to a peaceful, comfortable base — and Waterloo Lodge and The Hideaway offer exactly that. Both properties sit just minutes from the village centre, making it easy to dine out, pick up a takeaway, or enjoy a relaxed evening after a day exploring Assynt.
Waterloo Lodge
Perched on a quiet hillside overlooking Lochinver, Waterloo Lodge provides a luxurious self-catering retreat with stunning views of the surrounding lochs. The spacious kitchen and dining area are perfect if you’d like to sample local ingredients at home, while the lodge’s proximity to Peet’s Restaurant, Lochinver Larder, and Delilah’s makes eating out effortless. After dinner, guests can unwind in the outdoor Jacuzzi, enjoy the warmth of the log fire, or relax in the infrared sauna.
The Hideaway
Ideal for couples, The Hideaway is a cosy, open-plan cabin with a private hot tub and beautiful views across Loch Inver. Its location offers quick access to Lochinver’s cafés, restaurants, and takeaway options — perfect for relaxed mornings, casual lunches, or an easy dinner after exploring the NC500. Whether you bring back a famous pie from Lochinver Larder or head out for seafood at Peet’s, everything is just a short drive or gentle walk away.
Both properties offer:
- Self-check-in for flexibility
- Private parking
- Modern amenities with Highland charm
- Peaceful settings close to Lochinver’s food scene
With excellent local restaurants on your doorstep and the comfort of two beautifully appointed properties to return to, Waterloo Lodge and The Hideaway make an ideal base for a Highland escape filled with good food, great views, and complete relaxation.
Final Thoughts
Lochinver may be a small village in the northwest Highlands, but its dining scene is full of flavour, character, and warm Highland hospitality. From freshly caught seafood to famous handmade pies and relaxed cafés overlooking the harbour, there’s something here for every taste and every kind of traveller.
And with Waterloo Lodge and The Hideaway just minutes from the village centre, you can enjoy the best of both worlds — exceptional local food and a peaceful, luxurious place to return to at the end of the day.
Which local restaurant in Lochinver is your favourite, and what dish would you recommend to future visitors?
Let us know in the comments below!