10 of the best seafood shacks in Scotland

Where?

Find the Lobster Shack nestled in the harbour of the popular seaside town of North Berwick in East Lothian, only 20 miles from Edinburgh.

Why the Lobster Shack?

The seafood is brought in directly from the boats in the harbour, ensuring the finest quality and freshness. All their delicious food is served in eco-friendly, biodegradable packaging, and they have a fully covered and heated outdoor dining area, so you can enjoy your meal whatever the weather. Alternatively, order your food to take away and admire the views from one of North Berwick’s beaches, with vistas stretching out to the iconic Bass Rock.

Must-try dishes:

• Fish tacos
• Chowder
• Grilled North Berwick lobster

Where?

The village of Carbost on the Isle of Skye, close to Talisker Distillery and the rugged shores of Talisker Bay.

Why the Oyster Shed Farm Shop?

As the name suggests, the Oyster Shed Farm Shop is the place to go to sample some of the finest oysters Skye has to offer. Pacific oysters are grown in the crystal-clear waters of nearby Loch Harport and served fresh on site. The farm shop also sells a range of local produce, including its own miso and nori seaweed butter, and you can even try shucking your own oysters with expert guidance on hand.

Must-try dishes:

• Oysters (of course!)
• Hot-smoked salmon and chips

Where?

The harbour town of Ullapool in the Northern Highlands, where you can begin your Scottish adventure by catching a ferry to the Outer Hebrides.

Why The Seafood Shack?

The Seafood Shack is a true gem, founded by two local lassies who have won numerous awards for their outstanding seafood. The menu changes regularly to showcase the freshest local produce, including oysters, scallops, mussels and trout. They also cater for gluten-free and dairy-free diets.

Must-try dishes:

• Cullen skink served with bread
• Ullapool smoked trout salad

Where?

Situated in the small village of Ellenabeich, just 16 miles south of Oban on Scotland’s west coast.

Why The Oyster Bar?

Like many on this list, The Oyster Bar offers a seasonal menu showcasing fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Its outdoor seating area overlooks the Atlantic, with views across to the islands of Scarba and Jura. Not in the mood for seafood? No problem. There are plenty of non-seafood options too, including steak and ale pie, chilli con carne and a selection of burgers.

Must-try dishes:

• Wholetail scampi with chips, peas and tartare sauce
• Langoustines

Where?

The bustling town of Oban in Argyll, on Scotland’s west coast.

Why the Oban Seafood Hut?

The Oban Seafood Hut is well known as a seafood lover’s paradise, with lobster, scallops and crab all featuring on the menu. Its high-quality seafood is cooked fresh to order, and there’s a fantastic alfresco dining area overlooking Oban Bay, where you can watch the boats bobbing on the water while you enjoy your meal.

Must-try dishes:

• Prawn sandwich
• Scallops in hot garlic butter

Where?

Near the village of Tarbert in Argyll, on Scotland’s west coast.

Why Skipness Seafood Cabin?

Skipness Seafood Cabin is rated the number one place to eat in Skipness on TripAdvisor, and it’s easy to see why. The team are proud supporters of sustainable fishing, and all their langoustines are creel-caught. They also serve tempting treats such as cakes and mini tubs of Mackie’s ice cream, so you can round off your meal with something sweet. Open seasonally from the end of May, it’s the perfect spot for summer seafood with a view.

Must-try dishes:

• Hot-smoked salmon roll
• Skipness seafood platter

Where?

Fionnphort on the Isle of Mull, where you can catch the 10-minute ferry crossing to the historic Isle of Iona.

Why The Creel Seafood Bar?

Their mouth-watering seafood is caught locally in the waters surrounding Mull and Iona, from scallops and mussels to crispy langoustines and prawns. They also serve teas, coffees and other refreshments. It’s the ideal spot to grab a bite before catching the ferry to Iona, or simply to admire the incredible views from this part of the island.

Must-try dishes:

• Salt and pepper squid and chips
• Battered scallops and chips

Where?

The colourful waterfront village of Tobermory on the Isle of Mull.

Why Fisherman’s Pier Fish & Chip Van?

Fisherman’s Pier Fish & Chip Van holds the prestigious Les Routiers award, with every fish, scallop and seafood delicacy caught daily from the sea and cooked to perfection. It’s also the ideal spot to enjoy a chippy while watching the sun set over the harbour.

Must-try dishes:

• Haddock
• Scallops

Where?

Housed in a converted horsebox in the harbour town of Stonehaven, just south of Aberdeen and near the epic Dunnottar Castle.

Why The Seafood Bothy?

The menu varies depending on the day’s catch from the owner’s very own boat! You can enjoy delicious seafood salad platters, wraps, baguettes, pies and more while admiring the pretty sea views from the harbour in this bustling town.

Must-try dishes:

• Toasted crab and cheese sandwich
• Lobster and prawn burrito

Where?

Shieldaig in Wester Ross in the north-west Highlands.

Why Nanny’s?

Nanny’s boasts a mouth-watering variety of dishes, light bites and specials – make sure you try the squat lobster, which is a firm favourite among locals and visitors! They also serve a range of breakfast options and a tasty selection of home baking.

Must-try dishes:

• Hot breakfast rolls
• Squat lobster