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Where to Eat in Fort Augustus: The Best Restaurants & Cafés Near Loch Ness

Fort Augustus may be a small village on the southern tip of Loch Ness, but it punches well above its weight when it comes to great food. Whether you're staying at The Highland Club or just passing through on your Highland adventure, there’s a fantastic selection of places to eat—from hearty breakfasts to fine Highland dinners.

In this local guide, we’ll walk you through the best restaurants and cafés in Fort Augustus for breakfast, lunch, dinner, date nights, and family-friendly meals. We’ve chosen locally run spots with strong reviews, authentic flavours, and Highland hospitality.

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Best Breakfast in Fort Augustus

Start your Highland day right with a satisfying breakfast from one of these local favourites.

The Boathouse Lochside Restaurant

📍 Location: Canal Side, Fort Augustus
theboathouserestaurant.co.uk

Set right on the Caledonian Canal, this scenic spot is open for breakfast during the summer season. Expect classic options like:

• Full Scottish breakfast
  
  
• Fresh pastries
  
  
• Eggs Benedict
  
  

With views of the canal and Loch Ness, it’s a peaceful way to begin your day.

Highland Club Lounge (Onsite for Guests)

If you're staying at The Highland Club, take advantage of the Club Lounge, where you can enjoy a quiet morning coffee or prepare a homemade breakfast in your self-catering apartment. Most guests opt to stock up locally and cook using their fully equipped kitchens, ideal for early risers or families.

Top Lunch Spots in Fort Augustus

After a morning exploring the Caledonian Canal or hiking nearby trails, here are the best spots for lunch.

3. The Lock Inn

📍 Location: Near the canal locks

A staple of Fort Augustus, The Lock Inn is a cosy, traditional pub with hearty Highland favourites. Perfect for lunch:

• Cullen Skink (smoked haddock soup)
  
  
• Burgers and chips
  
  
• Local ales and ciders
  
  

Their large outdoor seating area is great in warmer months, and dogs are welcome.

4. The Bothy Restaurant & Bar

📍 Location: Canal Bank
thebothyfortaugustus.co.uk

Serving a mix of traditional Scottish and modern pub fare, The Bothy is known for:

• Haggis, neeps and tatties
  
  
• Wild venison burger
  
  
• Vegetarian and gluten-free options
  
  

Lunch is casual but quality, and their whisky list is worth a look, even early in the day.

Best Dinner Restaurants in Fort Augustus

From fine dining to relaxed bistro-style meals, these are the best dinner options in town.

5. The Lovat Brasserie

📍 Location: The Lovat Hotel, Fort Augustus
thelovat.com

The Lovat is one of the most reputable hotels in the area, and its brasserie offers elevated Highland cuisine with a focus on sustainability. Expect:

• Seasonal tasting menus
  
  
• Local game and seafood
  
  
• Fine wine pairings
  
  

Ideal for romantic dinners, anniversaries, or foodies looking for something special. They’ve been featured in food guides and hold Green Tourism credentials.

6. Morag’s Lodge Bar

📍 Location: Bunoich Brae, Fort Augustus
moragslodge.com

Although technically a hostel bar, Morag’s serves surprisingly good home-cooked meals in a laid-back atmosphere. Think:

• Steak pie
  
  
• Macaroni cheese
  
  
• Good vegetarian range
  
  

They often have live music or quiz nights, making it a lively place to meet fellow travellers.

Best Date Night Restaurants

Whether you’re celebrating a honeymoon or planning a proposal by the loch, these Fort Augustus restaurants offer atmosphere and flavour.

7. The Boathouse (Again)

We’re repeating this one for good reason. The Boathouse transforms at night into one of the most romantic dining spots in Fort Augustus. Sit by the window and watch the sun set over Loch Ness.

8. Station Road Restaurant – Invergarry Hotel (Short drive away)

📍 Location: Invergarry (approx. 15 min drive)
invergarryhotel.co.uk

For those willing to venture a little further, this intimate, award-winning restaurant offers:

• Scottish fine dining with French technique
  
  
• Local trout and Highland beef
  
  
• Sophisticated wine and whisky pairings
  
  

Perfect for a special evening out while staying at The Highland Club.

Family-Friendly Places to Eat

Travelling with kids? These local venues offer flexible menus, high chairs, and casual settings.

9. The Bothy

They offer a dedicated children’s menu with classic kid-friendly meals. The staff are friendly, and the location is central.

10. Richmond House Hotel Restaurant

📍 Location: Main Street, Fort Augustus

Family-run and welcoming, Richmond House has a varied menu and flexible dining times. Their Sunday roasts are popular with locals and guests alike.

Quick Bites, Coffee & Snacks

Sometimes you just need a quick bite or a good coffee before hitting the road.

Cobbs Café at the Caledonian Canal Centre

📍 Location: Central Fort Augustus

Great for takeaway sandwiches, cakes, and locally roasted coffee.

Ripples Tearoom & Gifts

📍 Canal Side, Fort Augustus
Visit Ripples on Facebook

A charming canalside café, Ripples Tearoom is a Fort Augustus favourite for:

• Homemade soups, toasties, and cakes
  
  
• Scottish shortbread and fresh scones with jam & cream
  
  
• Ice cream and hot chocolate — ideal for kids
  
  
• Gift shop with Highland souvenirs, local crafts, and Nessie memorabilia
  
  

With indoor and outdoor seating overlooking the lock system, it’s a relaxed and scenic stop — and just minutes from The Highland Club.

Why Trust Our Picks?

At Highland Club Direct, we pride ourselves on showcasing the best of Fort Augustus and Loch Ness. Our recommendations are based on:

• Guest feedback from our luxury holiday apartments
  
  
• Local relationships built over a decade of service
  
  
• Businesses with strong online reviews and years of operation
  
  
• Places we personally visit and support
  
  

Final Thoughts: Eat Like a Local in Fort Augustus

Whether you’re tucking into a full Scottish breakfast, enjoying fresh fish by the loch, or savouring a candlelit meal for two, Fort Augustus offers a surprisingly wide range of excellent eateries for its size.

By staying at The Highland Club, you're perfectly positioned to explore all these culinary gems—most of them just a short walk from your accommodation.

📍 Planning a trip to Fort Augustus?

Book your stay at The Highland Club Direct today and enjoy premium self-catering apartments with Loch Ness views, complimentary spa access, and easy walking distance to the best food in the Highlands.