Loch Tay is not only one of Scotland’s most beautiful destinations, it’s also a wonderful place to enjoy great food and drink. Whether you’re looking for a traditional Highland pub, a romantic lochside restaurant, a hearty breakfast before exploring, or simply coffee and cake with spectacular views, you’ll find plenty of excellent choices around the loch.

From the villages of Killin and Kenmore to hidden gems along the shoreline, dining at Loch Tay combines warm Scottish hospitality with stunning scenery and locally sourced produce.

Lochside Restaurants at Loch Tay

Nothing beats enjoying a meal while overlooking the sparkling waters of Loch Tay.

Situated at Taymouth Marina | Loch Tay Stays, HotBox Spa & Waterfront Dining in Kenmore, The Ferryman Inn is one of the most scenic restaurants on Loch Tay. Guests can dine indoors beside the fire or enjoy the heated terrace overlooking the water and the slopes of Ben Lawers.

The menu showcases Scottish ingredients, with seafood platters, venison dishes, wood-fired pizzas and handcrafted burgers all proving popular. The restaurant also serves local beers, wines and cocktails, making it a favourite for both lunch and evening dining.

The Boathouse Kitchen & Bar

Located at Loch Tay Highland Lodges near Killin, The Boathouse Kitchen & Bar enjoys a beautiful waterfront setting with panoramic views across the loch.

The menu focuses on Scottish classics and seasonal produce, including steak pie, freshly landed fish and chips, mussels and traditional haggis, neeps and tatties. Outdoor seating beside the water makes it especially popular during the summer months.

Traditional Pubs and Inns

A visit to Loch Tay wouldn’t be complete without enjoying a drink in one of the area’s welcoming Highland pubs.

The Falls Of Dochart Inn

Overlooking the spectacular Falls of Dochart in Killin, this historic inn is one of the most iconic pubs in Highland Perthshire.

The terrace offers wonderful views of the rushing river and surrounding hills, while inside you’ll find roaring fires, local ales and a menu featuring Scottish favourites. Its location alone makes it one of the most memorable places to eat and drink around Loch Tay.

The Courie Inn

The Courie Inn has quickly built a reputation as one of the best places to eat in Killin. Combining boutique accommodation with an excellent restaurant, it offers a more contemporary dining experience while still celebrating Highland ingredients.

Seasonal menus feature dishes made with local venison, salmon and Highland beef, accompanied by carefully chosen wines and craft cocktails. Advance booking is recommended, particularly during summer.

The Courtyard Brasserie & Bar

Situated at the Mains of Taymouth estate near Kenmore, The Courtyard Brasserie & Bar is a relaxed venue popular with visitors and locals alike.

The menu offers everything from light lunches and sandwiches to hearty evening meals, with a good selection of wines, beers and spirits available throughout the day.

Cafés and Coffee Shops

If you’re searching for excellent coffee, homemade cakes or a leisurely brunch, Loch Tay has several charming cafés worth visiting.

Kula Coffee Shop

Located in the centre of Killin, Kula Coffee Shop is a favourite stop for walkers, cyclists and visitors exploring the village.

Expect freshly brewed coffee, homemade bakes and light lunches served in a relaxed atmosphere. The café is known for its friendly welcome and has quickly become one of the area’s most highly rated coffee spots.

Tay-Lawers Coffee

This small independent coffee stop on the quieter southern shore of Loch Tay offers exceptional views alongside excellent coffee.

It’s the perfect place to pause during a scenic drive or cycle around the loch, with outdoor seating allowing visitors to fully appreciate the Highland surroundings.

Fika Coffee Shop

Although located just outside Loch Tay in nearby Aberfeldy, Fika Coffee Shop is well worth a visit.

Known for speciality coffee, freshly baked pastries and Scandinavian-inspired dishes, it has become one of Perthshire’s most popular cafés and is an ideal stop before or after exploring Loch Tay.

Fine Dining and Special Occasions

For celebrations, anniversaries or simply an exceptional meal, Loch Tay offers several excellent dining experiences.

The Courie Inn is widely regarded as one of the area’s finest restaurants, combining modern Scottish cooking with a relaxed atmosphere. Meanwhile, The Ferryman Inn provides an elegant lochside setting where diners can enjoy seasonal menus alongside spectacular views.

Many restaurants around Loch Tay champion local produce, sourcing venison from Highland estates, fresh fish from Scottish waters and seasonal ingredients from nearby farms. This emphasis on quality ingredients has helped establish Loch Tay as one of Scotland’s emerging food destinations.

Enjoying Food and Drink Around Loch Tay

Whether you’re enjoying a coffee beside the water, sharing a wood-fired pizza overlooking the loch or relaxing beside a roaring fire after a day of exploring, Loch Tay offers memorable dining experiences in some of Scotland’s most beautiful surroundings.

From traditional inns and family-friendly restaurants to artisan cafés and stylish bistros, there are plenty of places to eat and drink around Loch Tay, ensuring every visitor can find something to suit their tastes.