The North Coast 500 is the ultimate 516-mile road trip around the north of Scotland, taking travellers past sandy beaches, coastal villages steeped in history, and much more.
But the breathtaking sights are not the only aspects of the route that have the wow factor. No. There’s plenty of tasty food and drink to be consumed along the way, too.
Whether you’re cruising past the Highland capital, Inverness, or in need of a well-earned foodie pitstop in Caithness or Tain, we have compiled a list of must-visit eateries that are suited to the whole family.
It is recommended that people take five days minimum to drive the full route round-trip – providing ample opportunity to sample the top food and drink establishments in each area.
Tagliotello
Daviot Dairy, Inverness, IV2 5ER
A homemade pasta catering company, Tagliotello is sure to satisfy the tastebuds of everyone in the family – including the fussiest of eaters.
Their rustic dishes, which include vegan mushroom ragu, carbonara and limoncello pudding, are made using a combination of fresh local produce and authentic Italian ingredients.
The truck’s location changes regularly, so keep an eye on the Tagliotello social media pages to find out exactly where it is when you’re passing Inverness.
The Inver Inn
Shop Street, Inver, Tain, IV20 1SE
If you’re making your way through the village of Inver, just six miles east of Tain, you’ll spy The Inver Inn – a favourite among the food and drink community trying their hand at the North Coast 500.
Not only does the pub provide stunning views over Inver Bay and the Dornoch Firth, but it also serves up great food and boasts an enviable whisky, gin and ale selection for the adults.
If the business’ social media is anything to go by, we’d recommend sinking your teeth into a roast dinner if you’re stopping by on a Sunday.
Dalmore Farm
Dalmore Farm, Alness, IV17 0UX
On the hunt for a venue that will tire the kids out and allow you to indulge in some high-quality dishes and bakes? Then Dalmore Farm is one to consider.
It only opened its doors last July, but has already made quite the impression among locals and tourists alike.
On the food and drink front, there is indoor and outdoor seating to enjoy a wonderful menu of home-cooked food, delicious cakes and our coffee by Inverness Coffee Roasting Co.
Open from 9.30am to 5pm Monday to Saturday, there are plenty of opportunities to stop by.
Carnegie Hall Cafe
Well Street, Portmahomack, IV20 1YD
Set in the beautiful seaside village of Portmahomack, you’re guaranteed a warm welcome on visiting Carnegie Hall Cafe.
Perfect for the youngsters, the eatery is well-known for its hearty homemade soups. You may even bag a bowl of delicious Cullen skink during your visit – if you’re lucky.
There are also paninis, sandwiches and home bakes, including a variety of scones, rocky roads, brownies and cakes, available, as well as Black Isle Dairy Ice Cream.
Scrabster Seafood Bar and Takeaway
The Harbour, Scrabster, KW14 7UJ
If your family are huge fans of all things seafood, then you won’t regret heading over to Scrabster Seafood Bar and Takeaway.
Tuck into anything from locally landed sustainable haddock with chipped Caithness potatoes or grilled lobster with herb garlic butter to battered squid rings or monkfish and prawn scampi.
Regardless of what you order, you can rest assured that your dish has been crafted with passion, love and respect.
Annie’s Bakery
Bridle Way, Upper Gills, Canisbay, Caithness, KW1 4YD
A sweet tooth that’s needing curbed calls for one thing – a visit to Annie’s Bakery.
With over 6,000 followers on Facebook alone, it doesn’t take a genius to work out that owner Annie Body’s treats are enjoyed by a vast line-up of foodies, with some travelling hundreds of miles to put them to the test.
Whether you’re after a cupcake, meringue, doughnut, scone or tart, you’ll find something that tickles your fancy at the bakery, shop and cafe.
Cocoa Skye
London House, Station Square, Brora, KW9 6QJ
The team at Cocoa Skye are devoted to making handcrafted artisan chocolates that are not only creative, but taste delicious too.
Open from 10am to 3pm Monday to Saturday and 11am to 3pm on Sundays, it couldn’t be easier to get your hands on one of the tasty treats available at the cafe during your North Coast 500 experience.
Customers can also opt for a variety of hot chocolates, teas, coffees and milkshakes.
The Midge Bite Cafe
Achnasheen, IV22 2EE
All you need to perk yourself up sometimes is a good old home bake – and The Midge Bite Cafe is the right place to head to for just that.
The talented team hand make countless mouth-watering desserts.
And if you’re in the group of people that adores dining with a view, then pop the venue straight onto your must-visit list.
