Lying on the Dornoch Firth and cuddled in a cove just off the North Sea, Dornoch attracts tourists for its spectacular beaches, serene nature reserves, and the world-famous Dornoch Golf Course. Dornoch is just 13 miles from Inverness meaning that it’s just a quick hop and a skip from the Highland capital.
As is the case across many Highland towns, the people of Dornoch pride themselves on utilising locally sourced produce from the generous Highland larder, and this approach can be appreciated across Dornoch’s eateries.
Should you be feeling hungry after 18 rounds of golf or walking along the outstanding beaches, Dornoch packs a foody punch despite its small size. Here are some of the best:
Milk & Honey Cafe
Starting off with this charming cafe, you can enjoy a full Scottish breakfast here or stop off for lunch. The secret’s already out on Milk & Honey which means you may have to queue, but we promise it’ll be worth it!
Milk & Honey is centrally located in Dornoch’s High Street, situated next to the local bookshop. Popular dishes at the cafe include their Cajun Chicken Burger, BBQ Pulled Pork, or one of many sandwich/bagel options.
MARA
Mara is a Gaelic translation word that means ‘The Sea’. Such a name therefore cooks up a clue over the types of dishes that MARA specialises in:
Located in the stunning Links House Hotel, you can enjoy their evening dining menu as well as afternoon tea. Their sample menu showcases an array of seafood including Oysters, Lobster Lasagna, and Crab Crumpets.
That doesn’t mean that MARA is exclusive to seafood eaters though. You can also find decadent Steak, Local Game, and Pumpkin Risotto.
MARA is a fantastic fine dining restaurant that focuses on sustainable cooking, their ethos is to use locally sourced ingredients with zero waste. You’ll find a seasonable menu which reflects what produce is available to them.
If you’re lucky enough to live within 50 miles of MARA, you can enjoy a discounted price on their ‘Neighbourhood Menu’. If it’s not food you’re after, you can stop by for drinks in their incredibly cosy bar area with their extensive wine and whisky selection.
Greens Restaurant
Inside the town’s old Courthouse built in 1849, you’ll find Green’s Restaurant. This newly renovated restaurant opened in 2023 keeps some of the old charm, mixed in with modern decor.
Green’s also takes the same approach of changing its menu seasonally to make use of what is available at the time, you can be sure to find fresh local ingredients in their menu. Some of their dishes include Cullen Skink Soup, Sage Scented Pork Belly, and a Seafood Linguine. Green’s also has a beautiful brunch and a lovely lunch menu to choose from.
Green’s has a relaxed atmosphere and is highly regarded in the town of Dornoch, it is known for their exceptional service and delicious food, and their desserts are not to be missed!
Crenshaw’s Brasserie
Last but by no means least, we have Crenshaw’s Brasserie, based in the famous Royal Golf Hotel. This restaurant was named in honour of Ben Crenshaw, a golfing legend.
You don’t have to be lucky enough to be staying here to enjoy the food Crenshaw’s has to offer. You can choose from their two-course or three-course set menu with traditional dishes including Fish and Chips, the Chef’s Daily Risotto or a Highland Venison Loin. If you happen to be here on a Sunday, their Sunday Roast is highly regarded as one of Dornoch’s best.
Overlooking the golf course, you’ll find a beautifully designed room with a relaxing ambience where polite staff are noted to provide impeccable service. Eating or drinking, Crenshaw’s has a highly acclaimed atmosphere, perfect for watching golfers drive off the tee.
What are some of your favourite places to eat in Dornoch and why?
Let us know in the comments below!
