Michelin-Recommended Eateries 2021 in the South of Scotland

An entry in the Michelin Guide has long been the sought-after accolade for any aspiring chef. Restaurants recommended by Michelin are sure to have any passionate foodie flocking. It is a credit not only to the chef and his team but to the front of house staff who serve and make you feel welcome. In short, Michelin looks for the whole package and consistency across visits when handing out its much coveted stars.

With food and drink producers galore, it’s no wonder that seven eateries holding a Michelin star are spread across the south of Scotland. Whether you want a quick bite or a relaxing foodie weekend away from the daily grind, there are plenty of options. Here we give you a run-down on what to expect, what differentiates them and where to find these gourmet gems.

Please note: In light of the coronavirus pandemic, health and safety are of paramount importance. Stay safe and adhere to current government guidance. If you are going for walks or exercise, always follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. Closures and access restrictions may apply and will be lifted in line with government guidance. Always check with places directly and prebook where possible.

Seasons

Where: Gattonside

Bursting with seasonal flavours, as the name promises, Chef Roger proudly sources his ingredients locally and actively shows their provenance. Seasons offers dinners Friday – Sunday as well as Sunday lunch in an informal, relaxed restaurant setting. That’s for those looking for the full dining out experience. If you fancy Michelin star food at home, Seasons at Gattonside has an At Home option which is ideal for those in self-catering accommodations. Perhaps a beef Wellington takes your fancy or a salmon en croute? You can order by Thursday evening for collection Friday or Saturday and all will come with complete reheating/cooking instructions. Don’t forget to include some of the homemade soda bread and perhaps some Portugese custard tarts or natas to finish off.

Knockinaam Lodge

Where: Portpatrick

Once a Victorian shooting lodge, Knockinaam Lodge is now a 10-bedroom hotel with delicious food and glorious views over the Irish Sea. There is history aplenty with the lodge featuring in John Buchan’s 39 Steps and acting as the secret rendezvous location for Prime Minister Winston Churchill and American Brigadier General Dwight D Eisenhower as they planned the D-Day landings. The food is modern, evolving with the seasons – Michelin notes “the Drummore lobster ravioli has become something of a speciality”. After a blustery coastal walk or some beach combing you can also enjoy a delightful afternoon tea.

Osso

Where: Peebles

The style at Osso is British/European with a little Asian thrown in for good measure. This bright, modern dining room specialises in tapas-style small plates ideal for sharing at lunch and dinner, Wednesday to Saturday. A light lunch might be two plates, with a full meal up to four. Starter style options include whipped salt cod mousse on toasted sour dough or mushroom and peanut bao bun. Try coley fillet in Goan curry sauce or beef shin croquettes and chilli cabbage slaw for more substantial fare. The friendly attentive staff impressed the Michelin inspectors just as much as the delicious food.

Cavens Country House

Where: Kirkbean

Cavens Country House is a boutique hotel with Michelin-approved food included in the price of your stay. Located south of Dumfries, this beautiful Georgian manor house is near the unspoilt Solway Coast. With just five bedrooms, this is like staying with friends according to repeat guests. Ask for one of the rooms with its own sitting room for some extra luxury! The house can even be rented as a whole entity if you have a special event you want to celebrate. This independently owned hotel also welcomes dogs and is set in 10 acres of gardens. Michelin recommends drinks by the fire before taking your place in the elegant candle-lit dining room to enjoy classic food lovingly prepared.

The Hoebridge

Where: Gattonside

The Hoebridge is a family run restaurant that has won several accolades since opening, including its mention in the Michelin guide. Having grown up in the area, self-taught chef Kyle Tidd returned from New York City to take on this former pub in 2015. Decorated with simple elegant charm, the restaurant’s menu changes monthly and features the best of Scottish produce with as much made on site as is possible. Michelin praises “the carefully prepared local ingredients in flavour-packed, internationally influenced dishes”. Open Thursday through Saturday for evening meals and Sunday afternoons.

Blackaddie House Hotel

Where: Sanquhar

At this manor house hotel on the banks of the River Nith, you are in the accomplished hands of chef Ian McAndrew. Winner of his first Michelin start at just 27, he has kept up the habit and nowadays he and his wife offer excellent food and hospitality at Blackaddie House Hotel. Bedrooms are named after birds. Ask for the Grouse and you will be rewarded with a sumptious super king four poster bed to sleep off your over-indulgences in the dining room. In addition to six bedrooms there are three riverside self-catering cottages. Dogs are warmly welcomed and with lovely walks nearby, this is a great pet-friendly option for gourmets. While the house may be 16th century, from food to amenities, Blackaddie is firmly in the 2020s.

Provender

Where: Melrose

Scottish, British and French cuisine mingle comfortably at Provender in Melrose. The autumn set menu includes pumpkin soup, autumn vegetable curry, apple and plum crumble while a la carte there’s loin of venison, wild mushroom tartlets, Butternut squash, brie & pumpkin seed filo pie and more than enough choice to keep everyone happy. Mentioned in the Michelin’s Bib Gourmand Guide, Provender should be on any foodie’s list while in the area. There’s brunch on offer Wednesday through Saturdays as well as lunch and dinner. For a special occasion why not book a private dining area? If you are planning on being nearby at Christmas, there will be a special five course tasting menu on offer – book early!