Where to Eat in Dumfries and Galloway

Dumfries and Galloway may be best known for its cultural heritage, dark skies and unspoiled scenery, but it also has a great food scene waiting to be explored. From award-winning cuisine to farm-to-table produce and cozy cafes, Dumfries and Galloway has it all. Whether you’re in the mood for some traditional Scottish fare or more innovative international dishes, there’s something to suit everyone’s tastes and occasions. 

Fill your stomach after a long day exploring the area or treat yourself and loved ones to a once-in-a-lifetime meal with breathtaking view across Dumfries and Galloway. There’s also a plethora of options catering to various dietary needs, including vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free choices, meaning you can enjoy without compromise. Even better, many establishments source their food directly from local farms and suppliers, guaranteeing freshness and succulence with every bite.  

Cafes and Tearooms 

Looking to indulge in some delicious treats during your visit? Or perhaps a bowl of warming soup in a relaxed setting? Dumfries and Galloway is home to a delightful array of cafes and tearooms, perfect for a relaxing break during your travels. From elegant tearooms serving traditional afternoon tea to cozy cafes offering specialty coffees and homemade treats, there’s something for everyone. Many cafes offer both sit-in and takeaway options, allowing you to enjoy your food and drinks in comfort or take them with you on your adventures. Whether you’re looking for a quick pick-me-up or a leisurely afternoon indulgence, the region’s cafes and tearooms are sure to impress. 

Abbey Cottage Tearoom, New Abbey: This family-run tearoom, located near Sweetheart Abbey just six miles from Dumfries, has been serving homemade soups, snacks, scones, and cakes for nearly 40 years. Offering a wide selection of specialty teas and coffees, their afternoon tea is the perfect treat after exploring the historic village of New Abbey and climbing Criffel hill. The team is happy to cater for special requirements, including vegan and coeliac diets.  Read more about Abbey Cottage Tearoom

The Riverbank Cafe, Newton Stewart: The Riverbank Cafe is a favourite among locals and visitors. With much of their food made from locally sourced ingredients, the delicious menu offers freshly baked goods, excellent coffee, paninis, toasties, salads, burgers, breakfasts, soups, desserts, and a children’s menu. Read more about The Riverbank Cafe

Oakhill Cafe & Deli, Carsluith: Situated beside the historic Carsluith Castle and overlooking the Solway Firth, Oakhill Cafe & Deli provides a scenic backdrop to enjoy while you tuck into their mouth-watering menu. Featuring a fantastic selection of artisan fine foods, cheeses, deli items, charcuterie meats, and smoked fish, patrons can enjoy a warm welcome for both them and their pets! Read more about Oakhill Cafe & Deli 

Farm Shops and Local Produce 

Dumfries and Galloway is a haven for those who appreciate fresh, organic produce. Whether you’re looking for luxury ingredients for your own meals, to try some of the local delicacies or buy a delicious gift for a loved one, you’ll not be short on options in Dumfries and Galloway. From high quality meats to locally rown fruits, vegetables, meats, and dairy products, shopping at one of the region’s numerous farm shops is not only a party for the senses, but a great way to support Dumfries and Galloway’s excellent local businesses. 

Kilnford Farm Shop, Dumfries: Opened in 2011, Kilnford Farm Shop offers the best home-reared meats and locally grown produce. Their farmhouse kitchen cafe provides a true farm to table dining experience, while their deli counter is packed with local and Scottish cheeses, homemade pies, and home-cured meats. Read more about Kilnford Farm Shop 

Brambles Delicatessen, Kirkcudbright:  Brambles Delicatessen in the ‘Artists Town’ of Kirkcudbright has been selling a wide selection of high-quality foods from around the world since 2006. Pop in to browse their new expanded selection, including organic vegan wines, champagne, and Scottish whisky. Read more about Brambles Delicatessen

Galloway Farmhouse Cheese, Sorbie: Galloway Farmhouse Cheese is an award-winning cheese producer whose cheese are served and sold in in top hotels and restaurants across Scotland. Visitors to the farm shop ‘From Ewe to You’ can sample their full range of Cairnsmore cheeses, as well as checking out their range of craft items for sale.  Read more about Galloway Farmhouse Cheese 

Breweries and Distilleries 

For those who enjoy a craft beer or a fine spirit, Dumfries and Galloway offers a unique experience with its local breweries and distilleries. Many of these establishments offer tours and tastings, allowing you to learn about the production process and sample their products. Sip on a perfectly crafted cocktail while enjoying 360-degree views of Galloway’s rolling hills, or sample one-of-a-kind beers while learning more about the local area.  

Dark Art Distillery, Kirkcudbright: Located in the heart of Kirkcudbright, Dark Art Distillery is a multi-award-winning premium gin distillery. Inspired by the nature that surrounds them, their products mirror the wonders of the nearby Galloway Forest Park and the region’s awesome dark skies.  They offer daily gin tastings and tours, where you can see their bespoke still, ‘Peggy,’ and learn about the distillery’s history and art. Read more about Dark Art Distillery 

Five Kingdoms Brewery, Isle of Whithorn: This microbrewery is found in the harbourside village of The Isle of Whithorn, was founded in 2015. They offer a range of cask ales and bottled beers, often dedicated to local characters or life experiences. Visit their brewery tap at the Steam Packet Hotel to sample their beers, or order online for delivery throughout the UK. They also offer brewery tours with tastings. Read more about Five Kingdoms Brewery

Crafty Distillery, Newton Stewart: This modern grain-to-glass distillery offers panoramic views of the Galloway Hills. You can learn about their unique distilling approach and enjoy a taste of their award-winning spirits, including Hills & Harbour Gin, Smokey & Citrus Distilled Cocktail, and Galloway Vodka. Their distillery shop features these spirits, along with hampers, gifts, mixers, and local produce. Read more about Crafty Distillery

Restaurants 

Dumfries and Galloway’s restaurant scene is diverse and vibrant, offering everything from casual breakfast spots to romantic settings ideal for a special date night. Whatever the occasion, you’re never far from delicious food that is sure to delight.  

The Selkirk Arms Hotel, Kirkcudbright: This hotel offers a variety of dining experiences, from casual dining in the bar or bistro to a more formal setting in the Artistas restaurant. They serve local real ales, fine wines, and malt whiskies, and offer al fresco dining in their beautiful garden. Read more about The Selkirk Arms Hotel

The Pheasant, Sorbie: This award-winning restaurant is run by husband and wife team Andrea and Morag Cuomo.  Offering a unique dining experience in the heart of Galloway, visitors will find Andrea’s Italian heritage reflected in the menu, which features authentic Italian dishes and innovative recipes. Morag adds a Scottish flair to the homemade desserts. They cater to various dietary needs and, like many local businesses, use locally sourced produce whenever possible. Read more about The Pheasant

The Globe Inn, Dumfries: Steeped in history, The Globe Inn retains its roots as an inn where Robert Burns once frequented. Not one to ride on its famous historical patron’s coattails, the Globe Inn also offers fantastic food using a fusion of modern and classic culinary techniques. And if its a good drink you’re after, why not enjoy a dram from their extensive whisky selection (over 300 single cask-single malts) or an refreshing cocktail?  Read more about The Globe Inn

Pubs and Bars 

Dumfries and Galloway is home to a variety of pubs and bars, many with outdoor seating areas – perfect for enjoying the region’s scenic beauty with a refreshing drink in hand. Some pubs are dog-friendly, making them ideal for those traveling with their furry friends. Whether you’re looking for a place to watch live sports or simply relax with a drink, you’ll find a welcoming atmosphere in the region’s pubs and bars. 

Hole I’ The Wa’ Inn, Dumfries: Located in the heart of Dumfries, this historic pub has been serving pints for over 300 years and was a favourite of Robert Burns. It’s a great place to soak up the local atmosphere and learn about the region’s history. Read more about Hole I’ The Wa’ Inn

Masonic Arms, Gatehouse of Fleet: This traditional yet contemporary bar offers one of the largest selections of draught lagers and beers in the area, along with cask ales. They also have an impressive collection of over 280 gins, earning them the title of “Scottish Gin Bar of the Year” in 2022. It’s a must visit for any gin connoisseur. Read more about the Masonic Arms

Laurie Arms, Castle Douglas: Relax by open log fires in winter or in their large, partly covered beer garden in summer. Serving good quality local dishes, this pub is also award-winning their real ales. Takeaways are also available. Read more the Laurie Arms

Ready to explore Dumfries & Galloway? Start planning your adventure today! Browse our website for more detailed information on accommodation, attractions, and activities.