Your Guide to Fine Dining in Argyll & the Isles

Whether seeking a luxury spa weekend away or spectacular views combined with incredible food, Argyll & the Isles is a dream foodie destination! 

In this article, we share some of Argyll’s top fine dining restaurants with you, including Michelin-starred restaurants, award-winning fine dining spots and luxury accommodations & spa resorts that combine a bit of pampering with fantastic dining experiences. What’s not to love?

Fine Dining Restaurants with a View

The Pierhouse Restaurant & Hotel, Port Appin

Hidden away in the quiet village of Port Appin, only a short drive from Oban, you’ll find the Pierhouse Restaurant & Hotel. The Pierhouse Hotel specialises in traditional Scottish dishes and seafood. Here, Chef Michael and his team prepare the best Cullen Skink, hand-dived scallops and Loch Creran oysters. There are also some excellent vegetarian and vegan dishes, light snacks and cocktails, all best enjoyed while gazing out over the stunning Loch Linnhe.

Why not spend the night? After enjoying a fantastic fine dining experience - and a few wee drams or cocktails - get cosy in one of the welcoming rooms and wake up to spectacular views over the Isle of Lismore. Jump on the ferry to the Isle of Lismore for a fantastic day out!

18 at the Machrie, Islay

Whisky, golf and a warm island welcome. The Isle of Islay is an iconic Argyll destination worth the boat trip. If you’re looking for fine dining while exploring this Hebridean gem, head to 18 at The Machrie Hotel & Links. Overlooking the famous golf course, this restaurant offers a relaxed and informal fine dining experience with delicious Scottish produce. Depending on the season, you can try Argyll smoked salmon, breast of duck, Islay scallops, braised pork belly or wild mushroom risotto. Finish your dining experience with a drink by our roaring log fires or on the outdoor terrace overlooking the 18th green, making it the perfect spot to watch endless sunsets and gaze out to sea.

Don’t want to leave? The Machrie offers a variety of fantastic room options, allowing you to sample the excellent breakfast in the morning as well. With outstanding sea views and much to explore from our doorstep, the Machrie is a fantastic base for your Islay adventure. 

Loch Melfort Hotel, near Oban 

Visitors to the restaurant at Loch Melfort Hotel will indeed have a local, first-class fine dining experience. Set in 17 acres of gardens, Loch Melfort Hotel is the perfect place to enjoy a locally sourced meal while taking in the spectacular open views over the islands of Shuna, Scarba and Jura. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a high tea on the sundeck or a fantastic fine-dining evening meal, Loch Melfort Hotel caters to all budgets, appetites, and dietary requirements.

Loch Fyne Oysters, Cairndow

“Nach Urramach an Cuan” - How worthy of honour is the sea.

This Gaelic saying perfectly summarises the guiding principle behind Loch Fyne Oysters: offering some of Scotland’s best authentic seafood while minimising their environmental impact and making a positive contribution to their local community. 

Whether you’re looking for a scenic lunch, a takeaway hamper for your adventure or want to purchase some of the local produce to cook a fine dining dish at home or your holiday accommodation, a visit to Loch Fyne Oyster Bar is a must-stop when travelling down the shores of Loch Fyne.

Luxury Accommodation with Fine Dining Restaurants

Portavadie, Loch Fyne

Located on the eastern shores of Loch Fyne, you'll find Portavadie, a contemporary Spa Resort with a marina at its heart. The award-winning Marina Restaurant and Bar features the finest produce from land and sea. 

Floor-to-ceiling glass awaits you, and every table offers a view of the marina and beyond. This is shore-side dining at its best. Sample a wide selection of ’Argyll's larder’ produce, skilfully prepared by their culinary team.