Foodies Perthshire

The LHH Guide To Food In Perthshire

Known as Scotland’s larder, Perthshire is a gourmet’s dream. With world-class ingredients, an abundance of local producers and some of the most creative chefs in the country, it has something for everyone from food trucks to Michelin starred restaurants. Here are some of our favourite foodie experiences that you should check out on your next trip.

Scottish Wines in Perthshire

For many, a visit to rural France is what you would associate with a winery tour but in amongst the rich fields and the hedge fringed country roads of the Carse of Gowrie, Cairn o’ Mhor has been producing award-winning country wines since 1987. Using the berries, for which the area is famous, as well as wild flowers, fruits and leaves, they have an impressive range of traditional wines and ciders to order online or pick up in person. The shop is well worth a visit as it’s set in a stunning location and gives you the opportunity for a tour and tasting. Quirky and off beat, this unique venture will be unlike any traditional winery you have ever seen, as evidenced by their annual bottle smashing tournament.

Glenfarg House is just the other side of Perth from here. Situated in lush green rolling farmland, it is the ultimate in comfort and old-world charm. Ideal for large groups or family gatherings, it is only 30 minutes from Andrew Fairlie at Gleneagles which is the country’s only 2-star Michelin restaurant but also convenient for the cosmopolitan dining attractions of Perth. Make sure and check out the new Sushi restaurant Koku Shi and the monthly farmer’s market.

Eating Out in Dunkeld

Dunkeld is a regional centre for local producers, with dozens of artisans in the immediate area. The deli here is one of the best in the country and is the centre of an impressive community growing initiative known as The Field, whereby a huge chunk of produce is grown “for the community and by the community”. The Orchard here has over 175 fruit trees, planted and tended by locals providing a huge range of fruit and every September “Big Apple Day” is a wonderful community apple-fest! Local highlights in the deli include game from Rannoch Smokery, ewe’s milk cheese from Errington Cheese and honey from Beeswing Apiary.

Taigh a Ghobha is just a short drive from here. It has a secluded wildflower meadow out back, just perfect for an evening sitting out relaxing and nibbling on local delicacies. There is a barbecue for these long summer evenings where you are never rushed, and the whole property has a wonderful old-fashioned, cosy, feel to it. This feels like the very opposite of fast food, being relaxed, sociable and comfortable. A dram by the fire from a local distillery makes the perfect end to the night when the sun goes down.

Lambdrover In Comrie

The ‘Lambdrover’ is the amusing nickname given to one of the most exclusive dining experiences Perthshire has to offer. A fully converted classic Landrover drives a select number of people into the Perthshire hills for an evening of freshly cooked local produce. Based in Comrie, the owners claim the majority of ingredients will come from within a ten-mile radius, vegetarians are catered for but, as the name suggests, lamb features front and centre. This will be a one-off night to remember, with unsurpassed views and ambience. Where better for a true taste of the country, personal service and a focus on the best ingredients.

Comraich House sits by the shores of Loch Rannoch and if a private Landrover tour sounds excessive, then a similar experience can be had simply by walking out of the front door here with a picnic. You are surrounded by hills, lochs and ancient Caledonian forest, and it’s easy to feel like you are escaping from civilisation for a while. The peace and tranquillity are maintained when you return to this contemporary, architect designed house, with its warmth and luxury. Two well-behaved dogs are also welcome. For loading up on picnic treats, the House of Bruar’s impressive Food Hall is on the way up here, so stock up on food and drink and indulge yourself. Whether it is locally brewed beer, handmade rhubarb macaroons, artisan chocolates or a takeaway lobster and chips, Perthshire will always leave you wanting more.