Banchory is undeniably a popular destination in the north-east.
And while its awe-inspiring surroundings and friendly community have big parts to play in this, its food and drink scene should also receive some recognition.
I touched on this earlier this week as my Town Spotlight series continued.
This time, it was all eyes on Banchory, and I heard what people really thought of its offering.
With so many fantastic businesses mentioned, I have pulled together this guide on where to eat and drink if you’re spending the day in Banchory,
From restaurants dishing out classic Scottish grub to coffee shops serving freshly-made home bakes, there is something to suit all tastes.
Breakfast
8am to 11am
Since breakfast is considered the most important meal of the day by many, I would recommend visiting Birdhouse Café to get your energy levels up.
Open Tuesday to Sunday, the dog-friendly venue serves breakfast from 8am to 11.30am. The menu features French toast, pancakes, waffles, porridge and more.
Speaking of pancakes, there is a restaurant in Banchory that specialises in the fluffy treat, known as That Pancake Place.
Whether you adore sweet treats or tend to opt for savoury dishes, there are toppings to suit all cravings.
If it were me, I’d order the ‘superfood stack’ – two buttermilk pancakes topped with fresh blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, Greek yoghurt, a sprinkling of granola and maple syrup.
Coffee and cake
11am to 12pm
Even if you did decide to go for a dessert-style breakfast, you’ll (surely) have room for a coffee and a slice of cake.
Open from 9am to 5pm daily, the bakes at Ride Coffee House are known to sell out, so be sure you secure one fast…
Raemoir Garden Centre is based a 16-minute walk away from Ride Coffee House, so this is another place to consider for a brew and a fine piece.
In terms of what tempting delights to expect, they can be anything from tarts, scones, brownies and muffins to shortbread and meringue.
If you’re after something more substantial, why not order from the lunchtime desserts menu? Sticky toffee pudding and bread and butter pudding are among the options.
Lunch/brunch
12pm to 3pm
You’ve toured the streets of Banchory and spent several hours checking out the sights, so now it’s time for a spot of lunch.
Fans of light, fresh meals should head over to Buchanan Bistro, which offers a range of soups, salads, sharing boards and more.
However, if Italian scran is more up your street, then consider Mamma Mia.
The friendly team provides authentic Italian food made from fresh, local produce. And you can choose to sit in to enjoy your lunch or take it away.
Not only are there plenty of pizza options, but the menu also features calzones, loaded fries, chicken tenders and a ‘dessert of the day’.
The Cowshed Restaurant also places emphasis on fresh, local produce. However, the offering differs.
Here, customers can tuck into an array of Scottish dishes. The hearty pies are some of the most popular menu items here. When they look like that, how could they not be?
Snack
3pm to 6pm
This one may require a short drive from the centre of town, but it’s well worth it in my opinion, particularly if you’re organising a picnic.
Finzean Estate and Farm Shop stocks products from a wide range of local suppliers, to say the least.
Seasonal wild venison and game, fruit and vegetables, artisan cheeses, eggs, freshly-baked bread, Finzean honey, preserves and ready-made meals are on sale with a wide selection of delicatessen and other food sundries.
Dinner
6pm to 8pm
With the day drawing to a close, why not finish it off in style at an award-winning eatery?
The Falls of Feugh Restaurant offers locals and visitors the opportunity to enjoy the very best of modern Scottish cuisine in a truly stunning location.
The menu includes pork fillet, braised beef and chickpea tagine.
You’ll also be able to tuck into exceptional food at the Burnett Arms Hotel, which boasts a restaurant (known as the Coach House Restaurant) serving American, Belgian and Brazilian cuisine.
And if you fancy a drink afterwards, you can head through to the hotel’s Pepper & Fogg’s Bar.
Drinks
8pm to late
While you may already have secured a table at the Burnett Arms Hotel to enjoy an ice-cold pint, cocktail, mocktail or whisky, Banchory Lodge Hotel is another place to consider.
There are both in and outdoor areas at the well-loved venue, so you can soak up the sun should it still be shining or stay cosy in the restaurant and bar area.
The cocktail list is extensive, featuring a line-up of whisky, vodka and rum-based concoctions that will leave you wanting more.
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