Hidden away in the Golden Coast of Easter Ross, Invergordon‘s one of those Highland towns that punches well above its weight when it comes to food. From proper Scottish fare to some unexpected treats, here’s where the locals head when they’re hungry.
Tuckers Inn
Perched right on the Cromarty Firth, Tuckers Inn gets the views and the food spot on. Their Sweet Chilli Chicken starter has quite the reputation locally, and the Venison, Bacon and Cranberry burger shows off what Highland produce can do. Nice spot to watch the ships come in while you eat. The staff here know their regulars by name, and chances are you’ll want to become one after your first visit.
The Ship Inn
Right by the cruise terminal, The Ship Inn serves up some proper Scottish fusion food. Their haggis pakora is a brilliant example – traditional Scottish haggis with an Indian twist. The three cheese macaroni’s pure comfort food, exactly what you need on a cold Highland day. If you’re properly starving, tackle the Stoltman Stack burger – named after our local strongman heroes. They use local ingredients wherever they can, and it shows in the flavours.
Rasho’s Cafe
Rasho’s Cafe is where you’ll find locals getting lunch – always a good sign. Nothing fancy, just good honest food in decent portions that won’t empty your wallet. The chicken and bacon carbonara’s a favourite, and their kebabs hit the spot. Just remember they’re closed Wednesdays in the quiet season. It’s the kind of place where the regulars have their own tables and the staff know exactly how you like your coffee.
Clootie McToot Cafe
New for 2024, Clootie McToot Cafe has community at its heart – all profits go to local projects. Their sandwiches and soups change daily, and they do a mean Croque Monsieur. The name comes from Clootie Dumpling, a proper Scottish pudding – worth trying if you’ve never had it. The atmosphere’s warm and welcoming, perfect for hiding from that Highland weather with a hot cuppa and something sweet.
Quick Bites Worth Knowing About
Harry Gow’s Bakery is a Highland institution – their Dream Rings are famous up here, and for good reason. The macaroni pie’s a proper Scottish classic too. McGintys does all your Scottish staples (yes, including deep-fried pizza – don’t knock it till you’ve tried it).
Good to Know
It’s worth booking ahead for dinner at Tuckers or The Ship Inn, especially when cruise ships are in. Nowhere’s too fancy – Highland casual is fine. Prices are decent for what you get, and portions are generous. Most places do takeaway too if you fancy eating with that Firth view.
Give the haggis a try wherever you end up – each place does it differently up here. And grab an Irn Bru while you’re at it – it’s Scotland’s other national drink after whisky. You’ll find it everywhere, and it’s just the thing with a fish supper.
One last tip – always check opening times in winter. Things run a bit differently up here in the quiet season, but that’s just Highland life for you. What you get in return is honest food, proper portions, and that warm Highland welcome that makes everything taste better. The cruise ships might come and go, but Invergordon‘s got its own rhythm, and the food scene’s all the better for it.
Where are your favourite places to eat in Invergordon?
Let us know in the comments below!
