Valentine's Day in Aberdeenshire: 8 restaurants for couples to visit

Valentine’s Day may be a few weeks away, but it’s the perfect time to get organised and reserve a table at a top north-east restaurant to spoil your partner.

There are lots of romantic spots for couples scattered across Aberdeenshire. So, I have rounded up the places I would recommend above all.

They each offer superb food and settings/surroundings to match.

1. Newmachar Hotel

Situated a short drive from Aberdeen, Newmachar Hotel was awarded an AA Rosette in recognition of its culinary excellence in April 2022.

Its restaurant, The Scullery, continues to serve up an exceptional range of dishes that you’ll both love this Valentine’s Day in Aberdeenshire.

Address: Oldmeldrum Road, Newmachar AB21 0QD

Two plates of food on table at The Scullery. — The Newmachar spot has something to suit all tastes. Image: Kenny Elrick/DC Thomson

2. Kildrummy Inn

If you think your other half would love a traditional inn-style setting with countryside views, then consider Kildrummy Inn.

Family-run, its menu showcases the best of the rich and diverse Scottish larder. Plus, it has a well stocked bar.

Address: Kildrummy Inn, Alford AB33 8QS

Various dishes available at Kildrummy Inn. — Kildrummy Inn had to feature in my top restaurants for couples list. Image: Kath Flannery/DC Thomson

3. The Bank Café & Restaurant

The Bank Café & Restaurant is run by family-owned Scotch whisky specialist Duncan Taylor Scotch Whisky – and both locals and tourists alike have been loving the space since it opened for business.

Whether you head in for breakfast, lunch or dinner this Valentine’s Day, the team always strives to offer the finest dining experience possible.

Address: 2 The Square, Huntly AB54 8AE

French toast from The Bank Café & Restaurant — Expect plenty of breakfast, lunch and dinner options at The Bank Café & Restaurant. Image: Kami Thomson/DC Thomson

4. The Garlogie Inn

The Garlogie Inn has been whetting appetites with its hearty and wholesome home-cooked food for almost 40 years.

Whether you’re after light dishes or hefty plates of food, the Westhill institution has it all.

Address: Garlogie, Westhill AB32 6RX

Ribeye steak from The Garlogie Inn. — Grilled Scottish rib eye steak, one of the dishes available at The Garlogie Inn. Image: Kami Thomson/DC Thomson

5. Falls of Feugh Restaurant

Next up, we have the award-winning Falls of Feugh Restaurant.

It is situated near Banchory on the banks of the River Feugh, so it’s another business on this list that offers cracking views.

Address: Bridge of Feugh, Banchory AB31 6NL

Dish on table at Falls of Feugh Restaurant — Falls of Feugh Restaurant offers modern Scottish cuisine in a truly stunning location. Image: Darrell Benns/DC Thomson

6. The Tolbooth Seafood Restaurant

At The Tolbooth, you can enjoy a great dining experience with views of the harbour.

And in terms of what dishes to expect, think rock turbot, hake, duck, pork belly, and crème brûlée.

You’ll both struggle to whittle down your choices…

Address: Harbour, Old Pier, Stonehaven AB39 2JU

Various dishes and glass of wine on a table at The Tolbooth — If you’re searching for a restaurant to visit on Valentine’s Day in Aberdeenshire, I’d urge you to try The Tolbooth. Image: Kath Flannery/DC Thomson

7. Mamma Mia

Pizza fans, this one’s for you…

Situated on Banchory’s High Street, Mamma Mia is (hands down) one of the best Italian restaurants I’ve visited in the north-east.

Not only are the staff friendly and welcoming, but the setting and food will transport you to the Mediterranean.

Address: 71 High Street, Banchory AB31 5TJ

Slice of pizza from Mamma Mia. — Mamma Mia is one for the pizza lovers. Image: Kami Thomson/DC Thomson`

8. Aspire Restaurant

Wanting to make sure you and your partner are treated to superb scran this Valentine’s Day in Aberdeenshire? Well, you’ll get just that at Aspire Restaurant in Portsoy.

If you’re humming and haying on whether or not to stop by, then check out my review of the restaurant from June 2023.

It’s safe to say I adored the food, surroundings and team (and still do).

Address: Seafield Terrace, Portsoy, Banff AB45 2QB