Sitting prettily on the Black Isle peninsula, Fortrose might be compact, but its food scene rivals that of much larger towns. From upscale golf club dining to homely cafés, this coastal Highland gem serves up memorable meals that keep visitors coming back.
The Cove Restaurant
The standout dining venue in Fortrose occupies a prime spot within the historic Fortrose & Rosemarkie Golf Club. Chef Craig Douglas, who honed his skills in Michelin-starred kitchens before returning to his Highland roots, creates dishes that showcase local ingredients with sophisticated technique.
The Cove Restaurant boasts magnificent views across the Moray Firth, making sunset dinners particularly special. Their Sunday roasts, featuring 28-day aged Black Isle beef, have developed a devoted following among locals and visitors alike. Seafood is a highlight here – try the citrus-cured salmon starter to appreciate the chef’s delicate touch with quality ingredients.
Wine enthusiasts will be impressed by their extensive cellar, which includes surprising finds like Slovenian orange wines that pair wonderfully with their seafood dishes. The Cove also hosts seasonal events, including collaborative dinners with guest chefs from Edinburgh and Glasgow.
IV10 Café Bar Deli
The IV10 Café Bar Deli is a versatile establishment on the High Street functions as a welcoming café during daytime hours before transforming into a lively tapas-style restaurant on Friday and Saturday evenings. Their dedication to local sourcing is impressive – the vast majority of ingredients come from within ten miles of their kitchen.
Morning visitors should sample their excellent coffee alongside freshly baked pastries. The rhubarb-cardamom cruffins have developed something of a cult following and often sell out early.
Evening diners share small plates that creatively blend Scottish ingredients with international flavours. Don’t miss the smoked haddock croquettes with applewood emulsion or the Korean-spiced pork belly atop fermented cabbage. Their Thursday “Chef’s Counter” experience allows diners to watch the kitchen team at work while enjoying a specially created menu with paired wines.
The Anderson
Housed in a characterful 19th-century coaching inn, The Anderson combines traditional Scottish hospitality with creative contemporary cooking. Their menu celebrates Highland produce – the venison from nearby Cromarty Estate is exceptional, as is their comprehensive smoked fish platter featuring Loch Duart salmon.
What truly distinguishes The Anderson, however, is their remarkable whisky collection. With over 540 bottles, it’s a treasure trove for spirits lovers, offering rare and unusual drams you’d struggle to find elsewhere in northern Scotland, including some limited-edition single cask releases.
Their themed events, such as whisky and cheese pairings, provide inventive ways to experience Scottish flavours beyond the standard menu offerings.
McGinty’s Takeaway
McGinty’s Take Away has earned a dedicated following through its commitment to quality and inclusivity. Unlike many traditional chippies, McGinty’s offers extensive gluten-free options, including beer-battered fish using gluten-free ale, making it a welcome find for coeliacs craving proper comfort food.
Beyond classic fish and chips, sample their innovative haggis-stuffed potato scones or black pudding fritters with apple chutney – Scottish fast food elevated to something special. All seafood is sustainably sourced, with daily catch information prominently displayed.
Fortrose Community Market
While not a restaurant, food enthusiasts shouldn’t miss the monthly community market (usually the first Saturday morning). Here you’ll discover an impressive array of local producers selling everything from artisan sourdough loaves to smoked venison and handcrafted chocolates.
A recent addition is the “Young Producers” section featuring up-and-coming local food entrepreneurs, including a teenage chocolatier creating exceptional single-estate chocolate.
Whether you’re seeking fine dining with dramatic views, casual small plates, traditional pub fare with exceptional whiskies, or simply a superior fish supper, Fortrose delivers culinary experiences that belie its modest size. The town’s eateries share a dedication to quality local ingredients and genuine Highland hospitality that makes dining here truly memorable.
Where are some of your favourite places to eat in Fortrose?
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