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The National (Scotland)
The National (Scotland)
National
Andrew Smart

Why these Scottish restaurants have been named among the 100 best in the UK

RESTAURANTS across Scotland have been named among the 100 best in the UK for 2025.

The ranking was compiled by the popular culinary guide SquareMeal and included a range of establishments, celebrating the most "outstanding" locations.

See the Scottish restaurants named among the 100 best in the UK

These are the Scottish restaurants named among the 100 best in the UK by SquareMeal.

11. Lyla - Edinburgh

Lyla is said to offer a "culinary journey" to its diners, starting with snacks upstairs before descending for a 10-course tasting menu.

The establishment is also known for its foraged and locally grown ingredients, making Lyla one of the city’s "finest" seafood experiences.

16. The Glenturret Lalique Restaurant - Perthshire

Containing just six tables, dinner at this distillery restaurant is "pretty exclusive".

However, the guide states that the trip here is "absolutely worth it".

20. The Kinneuchar Inn - Kilconquhar, Fife & Angus

This 17th-century pub and restaurant serves an "affordable yet elevated a la carte menu."

Produce is mainly sourced from the nearby Balcaskie Estate along with a handful of other local growers, helping to keep the menus seasonal and local.

29. The Little Chartroom - Edinburgh

Roberta Hall-McCarron’s cosy Bonnington bistro is apparently the "perfect neighbourhood restaurant" and provides a homely, comforting and always welcoming atmosphere.

33. Montrose - Edinburgh

Montrose comes from the team behind Edinburgh’s much-loved Timberyard, and embodies the same "minimalistic feel."

Downstairs is perfect for relaxed dining while upstairs is great for enjoying the set-menu experience.

34. Fhior - Edinburgh

The guide states: "Chef Scott Smith’s modern Scottish cooking combines elegance and intrigue, with ingredient-led menus that challenge and delight in equal measure.

"Fine dining here feels refreshingly relaxed, making Fhior a true standout spot in Edinburgh’s vast dining scene."

45. Inver - Argyll & Bute

Located in a converted ferryman’s cottage on the "Insta-friendly" shores of Loch Fyne, Inver "blends" together ultra-fresh local produce to create some truly exciting meals.

56. Big Counter - Glasgow

Described as a dinner house, Big Counter is said to dish out "unfussy comfort food and old-school favourites."

The menu changes daily but the dishes frequently feature butter, cream and cheese.


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60. Fish Shop Ballater - Aberdeen & Deeside

Fish Shop's commitment to community, simplicity and sustainability has allowed the popular establishment to become something "really special," according to the guide.

70. Cail Bruich - Glasgow

The experts say Cail Bruich is a "special occasion spot worth saving up for".

Here, guests will be treated to Lorna McNee’s unique flair for elevating the best of Scottish produce.

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