Food and Drink

Delicious food, iconic drinks and a buzzing nightlife - it’s all waiting for you on the Outer Hebrides. 

The Western Isles have some of the best seafood, smokehouses and distilleries in Scotland, if we do say so ourselves! 

Our community has a strong history of traditional crofting, fishing and coming together for amazing food and drink.  Hospitality and tourism is an essential part of the island economy and the passion for local produce can be seen throughout the Hebrides.  

If you’re looking to enjoy a night out, you’ve come to the right place.  Whether you’re belting it out at open mic night in MacNeills pub or singing along with a live band at arts centre, An Lanntair, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.  

For a quick bite, cafes like The Blue Lobster or Artisan are local favourites.  Both are based in Stornoway and Artisan also offers delicious cocktails in the evening.  As the night goes on, you might want to make your way to the Crown Hotel, to enjoy food in the lounge bar or pub area.

Why not make a meal of it?  An official food trail, entitled Eat Drink Hebrides, will guide you towards the best food and drink the islands have to offer, giving you the true flavours of the Outer Hebrides.  Covering everything from seafood to chocolate, the Trail will walk you through some truly amazing island eateries and distilleries.

The Isle of Harris Distillery is home to the gloriously-refreshing Harris Gin, a smooth spirit that captures the flavours of the island.  Located in Tarbert, the distillery is open for tours, but it is advisable to check ahead before planning your trip.  

North Uist is home to the Hebridean Smokehouse, where you can source delicious smoked salmon, mackerel, scallops and more. 

North Uist Distillery recently introduced its gorgeous Downpour Gin to the world.  Embodying the sweet scents of the machair, the island-inspired gin uses natural ingredients to create a refreshing spirit.  The distillery operates out of Nunton Steadings on the Isle of Benbecula.  

Delicious food can be enjoyed at Charlie’s Bistro, in Balivanich on the Isle of Benbecula.  The Bistro uses fresh, local ingredients to give you a true taste of the Outer Isles.  To get in touch or make a reservation, phone: 01870 603242.  

No to Stornoway would be complete without enjoying some iconic black pudding.  You can find out more about the delicacy here.

What will be your favourite tastes from the Outer Hebrides?