Maggie and I are keen epicureans – to paraphrase the ‘greatest good is to seek modest pleasures in order to attain a state of tranquility’ – and we do this by seeking out good food and drink!
We have been asked to recommend our local favourites on many occasions so below is a selection of places we have enjoyed in Argyll in no particular order:-
The Ben Cruachan Inn, Lochawe 01838 200880
The nearest and newest pub in the area. Opened in April 2017 to the relief of all locals and visitors alike! A 3 minute walk from the Tower serving great local ales and traditional pub food.
The Glen Orchy Hotel, Dalmally 01838 200952
Great home made food and bar. Sally and Mac own the hotel and Sally is the chef. All food is local and freshly made by Sally who has worked in some of the best hotel restaurants. Food is served between 12.30 – 14.30 and 15.30 – 20.30 Check out their website for lunch and evening menus. If you time it right you can leave the car at the Tower and get the train to Dalmally from the bottom of our garden – but remember to leave in plenty of time for the last train back!
The George Hotel, Inveraray 01499 302 111
Fabulous food and local beer served in this pub/restaurant which has French chefs! No need to book but there may be a wait if it’s busy. Fresh local produce is a speciality and consistently excellent every time..
Loch Fyne Oyster Bar and restaurant, Cairndow 01499 600482
Fresh oysters and other seafood straight from Loch Fyne. Very popular in summer so well worth booking in advance.
Fyne Ales Brewery and Bar, Cairndow 01499 600120
Cracking craft beer specialist – our favourite tipple is Jarl – with the bar and brewery located on a turning just beyond the Loch Fyne Oyster Bar. They also run a lovely small scale music festival in early June.
Eeusk, Oban 01631 565666
Freshly caught seafood is a speciality in a contemporary setting – right on the small harbour with a great view of the ferries and the setting sun! The seafood platter is glorious.
The Waterfront Fishouse Restaurant, Oban 01631 563110
Located near the train station on the pier. A great seafood restaurant with very good prices and rapid service. Bookings can be made online.
Cuan Mor, Oban 01631 565078
Situated on George Street, the main shopping street in Oban, this casual restaurant serves up bar food and has it’s own brewery on site.
Coast, Oban 01631 569900
Also situated on George Street, the main shopping street in Oban, this is a slightly more formal restaurant with a good wine list and even better seafood – the Langoustines are a must! Booking advised.
Inver, Stracthlachlan, Strachur 01369 860537
A little bit further afield but it has been named by The Sunday Times as one of the UK’s top 20 waterside restaurants. Tiny place with a very creative locally sourced menu but must be booked in advance!
Tower of Glenstrae 