Top outdoor dining spots in Scotland

Aldona Reyes Mallet

10 minutes• June 16, 2023

What could be more fun than socialising and sunbathing in one go? Combined with fresh air and fine food, outdoor dining is hard to beat! From pop-up street seating and gardens filled with tables to hidden courtyards and rooftop vistas – Scotland has seen the rise of excellent outdoor dining spots, with our cities embracing al fresco eating in a big way.

Whether you’ve just explored the city, enjoyed a spot of shopping, or are having a catch-up with friends or a loved one, a laid-back lunch or dinner in the open air is ideal for any occasion.

Ubiquitous Chip, Glasgow

Edinburgh

Cold Town House

What’s the vibe?

Housed in a former church and spread over three floors, Cold Town House is home to a brewery, bar and restaurant, all centred around Cold Town Beer. Kick back and enjoy comfortable outdoor seating all year round – either relaxing in the outdoor space or taking in the atmosphere from the rooftop bar. Fluffy blankets, gondola booths and covered seating will keep you warm and dry on cooler days.

Why go?

They brew their own craft beer, serve delicious Neapolitan pizzas and offer one of the best views of Edinburgh Castle.

Book a table at Cold Town House

St Andrews Square

Ivy on The Square

What’s the vibe?

You can never go wrong with a meal at The Ivy. Located in the prestigious St Andrew Square in the heart of Edinburgh, and housed in an impressive glass-fronted building, The Ivy On The Square offers relaxed, sophisticated dining with a touch of theatre. It features a small outdoor area overlooking the greenery of St Andrew Square – perfect for sitting back and watching the world go by.

Why go?

You’ll find modern British and international Ivy-inspired classics, alongside Asian-inspired cuisine, fantastic vegan and vegetarian dishes, and incredible cocktails.

Book a table at The Ivy on The Square

Edinburgh Castle

Indigo Yard

What’s the vibe?

Located in Edinburgh’s West End, Indigo Yard is a stylish, characterful setting to enjoy rustic food and drinks. Boasting a large outdoor courtyard covered by parasols, it unsurprisingly gets pretty busy, particularly during the summer, so get there early if you want to guarantee yourself a table outside.

Why go?

Perfect for boozy brunches, elegant mains and bar bites, alongside a great selection of beer, wine and cocktails.

Book a table at Indigo Yard

Other popular outdoor dining spaces in Edinburgh include: The Fishmarket, The Rose Street Garden

Glasgow

Drygate

What’s the vibe?

Situated on the edge of Glasgow’s East End, Drygate is the UK’s first experiential brewery, offering amazing panoramic views of the brewhouse. The top deck is prime real estate on a sunny day in Glasgow, so why not grab a bench, order a pint and enjoy some food too?

Why go?

They serve up finger-licking-good dishes, from grazing boards and burgers to more indulgent options like confit duck leg and featherblade steak.

Book a table at Drygate

Ashton Lane in the West End of Glasgow

Platform

What’s the vibe?

Platform is a vibrant event venue known for serving up food and drink beneath its signature railway arches on Argyle Street. The lane behind has recently been revamped, and sun seekers can now head to Platform Lane – an outdoor oasis in the heart of the city, located just beside the famous food market.

Why go?

Furnished with benches, stools, parasols and a pergola, Platform Lane has an added touch of magic with fairy lights. It’s not only stylish but also full of warmth and charm – the perfect place to relax with friends.

Book a table at Platform

Other popular outdoor dining spaces in Glasow include: Brel on Ashton Lane, Saint Jude’s in the East End, and Singl-end Merchant City in Merchant City

Inverness

The Mustard Seed Restaurant

What’s the vibe?

The Mustard Seed Restaurant is one of Inverness’ favourite restaurants. Not only does it enjoy a fabulous location on the banks of the River Ness in a converted church building, but it also has a top-floor terrace offering al fresco dining and uninterrupted views of the river. On a warm evening, dining outside on the balcony is a delightful experience.

Why go?

For simple, healthy food, a warm and friendly atmosphere, and the stunning double-height ceiling and magnificent open log fire.

Book a table at The Mustard Seed

Inverness Castle

Prime Steak and Seafood Restaurant

What’s the vibe?

Situated along Ness Walk, Prime Steak & Seafood Restaurant specialises in quality, locally produced steaks and seafood, offering a memorable dining experience. The venue also boasts beautiful views of Inverness Castle. With ample outdoor space available, what better way to spend the evening than enjoying a T-bone steak while watching the sun go down?

Why go?

Perfectly cooked smoked venison, pan-fried haddock and fillet steaks will impress from the first bite. To drink, choose from delicious Scotch, plum wine or strawberry gin.

Book a table at Prime Steak and Seafood

MacGregor's Bar, Inverness

MacGregor's Bar

What’s the vibe?

At MacGregor’s Bar, they love working with local producers and can usually tell you where your fish was landed that morning or what farm your steak comes from. This city-centre bar is passionate and proud of Scotland’s history and culture, hosting regular nights with singers, pianists and musicians of all genres.

Why go?

For the Cullen skink, roast rack of Scotch lamb and pan-seared turbot – but also for their brilliantly varied range of beers, available in kegs, casks and bottles.

Book a table at MacGregor's Bar

Aberdeen

Union Terrace Gardens

Siberia

What’s the vibe?

Located in the thriving heart of Aberdeen, on historic Belmont Street and overlooking Union Terrace Gardens, Siberia is an award-winning industrial-style venue and a firm favourite for al fresco dining in the warmer months. So much so that it even has a giant Chambord deck chair which, paired with a colourful drink, makes for an awesome Instagram photo.

Why go?

For their katsu fries, BBQ wings, sourdough pizzas and innovative in-house cocktail menu, among plenty of other delicious options.

Book a table at Siberia

Ferryhill House Hotel

What’s the vibe?

Housed in a historic building set within a private garden, close to Aberdeen city centre, Ferryhill House Hotel is the perfect setting to enjoy a relaxing drink, fine food and a comfortable place to rest your head. It’s also a popular spot thanks to its sun terrace, ideal for soaking up the rays while the children play in the on-site play park.

Why go?

For traditional Scottish food in a welcoming atmosphere, from fresh local haddock and chips to fresh salads and lighter lunchtime bites.

Book a table at Ferryhill House Hotel

The River Dee, Aberdeenshire

Banchory Lodge Hotel

What’s the vibe?

Enjoying a stunning setting on the banks of the River Dee, Banchory Lodge Hotel is perfectly positioned for a spot of relaxation. Beside the covered seating area, there are quirky garden sheds seating up to six guests. Dine al fresco and watch the chef cook up a storm in the outdoor kitchen area, complete with a grill, barbecue and pizza and flatbread oven.

Why go?

Enjoy all of the above while listening to the sound of the river, which gently lulls you into a feeling of tranquillity.

Book a table at Banchory Lodge Hotel

Dundee

The Giddy Goose

What’s the vibe?

The Giddy Goose is one of Dundee’s most chilled and eclectic restaurants, with a Bohemian-style open-air dining space that you’ll want to spend your entire weekend in. This aesthetically pleasing spot is filled with greenery, colour and light – perfect if you’re after sophisticated wine drinking in a chilled-out and friendly atmosphere.

Why go?

They’re known for their stone-baked pizzas and delicious sharing platters, so why not give them a try? They’re also located in the heart of Dundee’s nightlife, so you won’t have far to walk to your next adventure once you’re all dined and wined out.

Book a table at The Giddy Goose

Tay Bridge, Dundee

The West House

What’s the vibe?

Renowned for its dazzling colours and contemporary Italian styling – including a pushbike, ice cream barrel, blankets and patio heaters – The West House at Dundee’s West Port is a favourite with locals. Its central location makes it a popular place to eat before visiting the Rep Theatre or Dundee Contemporary Arts Cinema, and you’re only a stone’s throw away from V&A Dundee.

Why go?

While they offer fantastic brunch classics, including pizza and pasta dishes to satisfy all tastes, it’s their Aperol Bar and cocktails that everyone is loving and they’re best known for.

Book a table at The West House

Perth and Nearby

Perth and the River Tay

Parklands

What’s the vibe?

Dining at The Parklands is a food lover’s delight. Based in Perth’s city centre, just a few minutes’ walk from the bus and rail stations, this extended Victorian townhouse overlooks South Inch Park and makes a great base for exploring Perth and the surrounding area. In the summer months, you can enjoy the bistro menu on the terrace in front of the hotel while admiring views of the attractive garden and surrounding parkland.

Why go?

Try their baked goat’s cheese, rump of Perthshire lamb, or a dessert made with locally picked strawberries.

Book a table at Parklands

General Wades Bridge at Aberfeldy, Perthshire

The Taybank

What’s the vibe?

With three outdoor seating areas, one of which sits right on the river, it’s no wonder Taybank Hotel in Dunkeld is one of Perthshire’s biggest and most popular spots for al fresco dining. Over the summer, you can enjoy the many events they hold in the garden, including regular craft markets, music events and small festivals. They also have their own vegetable, herb and flower garden – how cool is that?

Why go?

For their hand-stretched pizzas, shellfish, steak sandwiches and so much more.

Book a table at The Taybank

Cherrybank Inn

What’s the vibe?

Found on Perth’s Glasgow Road, the recently renovated Cherrybank Inn has quickly become a favourite with locals and visitors. Alongside the lovely indoor space, you can sit back and relax on their modern, spacious balcony, which boasts an electric roof and multiple heat lamps, meaning you can enjoy it all year round. Alternatively, head to the beer garden for a more chilled-out setting – both offer an excellent selection of food and drinks.

Why go?

Their beer garden comes with large outdoor screens, giving guests the option to enjoy live sport in the sunshine.

Book a table at the Cherrybank Inn

Stirling

View from the National Wallace Monument overlooking the city of Stirling

The Birds and Bees

What’s the vibe?

Housed in a converted farm steading a stone’s throw from the historic Wallace Monument and Stirling Castle, The Birds & Bees has won the hearts (and stomachs!) of locals and visitors alike. This award-winning restaurant has two large, well-maintained beer gardens, featuring a permanent BBQ area in the courtyard and a pétanque pitch. It has also retained many original features, metalwork and farm implements, offering a relaxed dining experience.

Why go?

For their delicious range of dishes based on locally sourced, seasonal ingredients, including daily seafood market specials and traditional brasserie favourites.

Book a tabe at the Birds and Bees

Stirling Castle

Fletcher's

What’s the vibe?

Whether you’re after a standout brunch, top-notch lunch or delicious dinner, Fletcher’s is the perfect place to visit. Situated inside an early 1800s classic villa of elaborate character – a former bank – it has been magnificently transformed into a modern restaurant with rooms. It’s also located just a five-minute walk from Stirling town centre, train station and bus station.

Why go?

For their standout brunches, top-notch lunches and delicious dinners, along with an excellent range of fine wines, beers and exciting cocktails.

Book a table at Fletcher's

Slanj-a-va

What’s the vibe?

If you’re looking for a fantastic meal, a cool beverage to wash it down and some great music, then Slanj-a-va is the place to be. Located in the heart of the city, just around the corner from the Thistle Shopping Centre, it’s a fantastic choice for a night out, offering delicious BBQs, live music and a superb beer garden.

Why go?

For comforting home-cooked food and the largest beer garden – complete with a rooftop terrace!

Book a table at Slanj-a-va

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Top outdoor dining spots in Scotland

Edinburgh