Ballantrae, Scottish Restaurant Guide

2022 Review: An imposing country-house hotel overlooking the Firth of Clyde, with an Italian garden courtesy of acclaimed designer Gertrude Jekyll. On the food front it's “always reliable”, and now boasts “two dining areas: the Scottish baronial castle itself, and the new glasshouse” – a late 1800s affair similar to one on the Queen's Balmoral estate, and offering informal dining as against the main restaurant's three- and six-course tasting menus.

A new dining experience set in the estate's Victorian glasshouse and bothy. Led by Executive Chef Peter Howarth, it is to focus on a "seed-to-service" approach, offering indoor and outdoor dining with locally sourced ingredients and a menu reflecting the seasonal produce. With its relaxed yet elegant approach featuring gardens, wildlife, and a stargazing experience, this immersive dining destination aims to showcase Scotland's finest produce in a sustainable and memorable manner, while complementing the Castle's existing fine dining offerings. Sample dishes: St. Bride’s Chicken with Wild Mushrooms and Tarragon Sauce, Rib Eye of Prime Scottish Beef ‘Au Poivre’ with Pomme Frites and Glenapp Garden Salad