If there’s one thing guaranteed to give you that ‘summer holiday’ feeling it’s enjoying a nice dinner (and maybe a wee drink or two) outside in the sun.
It’s not something we get to do all that often in Scotland, so it’s best to take advantage of every sunny day that comes our way.
And luckily, whether you’re staying in and need to stock up for a BBQ or you’re hoping to head to a restaurant with outdoor seating, you’ll find lots of al fresco dining options to choose from.
Here are some of the best suppliers and places to eat this summer…
Fleming Butchers
Established in 1925, the Fleming name has always been associated with high quality and locally sourced meat products.
In 2014, Mark and Guthrie Batchelor bought the business to extend their established family farm by supplying traceable, local, quality meat products. They have farmed in the Angus and Tayside area for generations and take pride in producing high welfare, farm assured meat.
They are dedicated to maintaining high standards for their customers. All pork products are from their own farm, guaranteeing complete traceability. They also rear cattle and source the remainder of cattle and all lambs from Forfar Mart and local farms. This enables all of their meat to be matured on the bone to guarantee tenderness and taste.
Top tip for the BBQ: Fleming’s H-Bone steaks are delicious! Just cook a couple of minutes either side for medium/rare steaks.
Find out more about Fleming Butchers on their website.
Redwood Restaurant
Flanked by two gigantic redwood trees, the Redwood Restaurant at Invercarse Hotel has an enviable view across manicured gardens and the River Tay.
Regardless of the weather, be it sunny or dull, the outlook is always impressive. If it’s not quite the right temperature for al fresco dining on the deck or picnic tables outside, the view is not lost from inside. Getting to the Redwood Restaurant is easy; there’s ample free parking with 6 electric charging points, a bus-stop right outside the driveway and a rack to secure bikes.
Recently refurbished, the atmosphere is relaxed and informal. Lunch is served between 12pm and 2pm Monday to Sunday. Dinner is served from 6pm till 9pm Monday to Saturday, and till 8.30pm on a Sunday. High-Tea is available on Sundays from 5pm til 6.30pm.
Menus change on a regular basis but what always remains is the consistent quality and selection of local produce, the delicious food and excellent service.
The restaurant is open to non-residents, and booking is recommended.
Call 01382 669231 or find out more on their website.
Taypark House
The multi award winning Taypark House stands proudly in the affluent west end of Dundee. An elegant and beautiful Category B listed former Scots Baronial mansion, it enjoys panoramic views across Dundee’s Botanical Gardens.
The menu comprises of carefully selected ingredients from local suppliers, such as George Campbell & Sons and Hendersons of Glenrothes. The dishes will take taste buds on a trip around the globe, from Tapas style dishes and Philly Cheese Steak to summer favourites such as their Summer Salad.
The innovative vegan fish and chips is modern interpretation of the classic fish and chips. Meanwhile, the selection of freshly baked scones and cakes are perfect for anyone with a sweet tooth.
The Gin Bar, which boasts over 50 different gins, is perfect for those who fancy a refreshing beverage whilst basking in the Scottish summer. Every Friday throughout the summer, Taypark House will be handing the reigns of the gin bar to their favourite gin companies who will be offering samples of their product ranges.
Find more information on the menu and future events online.
Pitcrocknie Restaurant
At Pitcrocknie Restaurant you can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere overlooking the Alyth Burn through the golf course.
Friendly baristas will serve you freshly ground coffee and a selection of speciality teas.
Enjoy evening meals on ‘Fishy Friday’ along with Indian recipes at the ‘Weekend Curry Club’, as well as Friday or Saturday evening menus and Sunday High Teas from 12-6pm.
Find out more about Pitcrocknie Restaurant on their Facebook page.
Post House Coffee Co.
A multi-award winning, licensed coffee shop and cafe set in the village of Invergowrie, the Post House Coffee Co. boasts a beautiful south-facing courtyard.
Trading since November 2016, they have twice been awarded the ‘Cafe of The Year’ accolade in the regionals of Scotland’s Business Awards. They are very proud of these awards, which are a direct result of their dedication and passion for providing first class food and drink that is always freshly prepared in house by a team of fully trained chefs.
They are also passionate about providing the same quality offering for customers with dietary requirements. The breakfast, brunch and lunch menus are designed to be easily adaptable to be vegetarian, dairy free, gluten free and vegan friendly. Soups are suitable for everyone, no matter what.
Eggs Benny or Florentine, Smashed Avocado on Sourdough Toast(v,gf,df,ve), Chick-Pea & Salsa Burgers (v,df,ve) and Chef’s Frittata of the Day (v,gf) are just a few examples of the delicious dishes on offer.
Over on the sweet-cabinet, cheesecakes are always gluten free, as are the oaties, chocolate cake, muffins and the ever popular triple choc brownies. The carrot cake is always dairy free as are muffins and the blueberry cake. The vegan lemon drizzle and raspberry and basil olive oil cake are also always popular.
The Post House also offers Afternoon Tea, available with prosecco too, if that’s your tipple!
