Aberdeen is home to an incredible food scene, from hidden gems to well-loved favorites. We asked our team at Coffee House Hotel to share their go-to spots for the best meals in town—here’s what they said!
Jamie (Moonfish Cafe)
I never go out but...

Jamie got this off to a pretty bad start. As far as we can work out, the only thing he eats are the delicious borders biscuits we give out to guests with their tea and coffee. After some pretty thorough investigative techniques (calling him at 3am every day until he responded), he did finally ask his better half, who's a bit of an amateur reviewer of the local hotspots. She vetoed any suggestions he might have and has instructed you all to head straight to Moonfish Cafe. I couldn't agree more: Moonfish Café is one of Aberdeen’s best-kept secrets, offering an unforgettable dining experience in the heart of the city. Known for its food being made with local and seasonal produce, with a beverage list to match and close attention paid to an extensive gin list. Moonfish offers casual dining in a relaxed unpretentious atmosphere, and cozy yet modern atmosphere, this award-winning restaurant is a top pick for food lovers seeking something special.
Chloe (Aberdam)
The finest salt and pepper chicken and chips

I've been seeing more and more people coming to the light about Dutch food being exactly what's needed at any time of day, and Aberdam is certainly no exception. Chloe is one of the enlightened. If you’re searching for the best smash burgers in Aberdeen, Aberdam is the place to be. Inspired by Dutch street food, this trendy spot has quickly become a local favorite for its crispy, juicy burgers, loaded fries, and house-made sauces. With its bold flavors and casual vibe, Aberdam is perfect for anyone craving top-tier comfort food.
Jenn (Seoul Aberdeen)
Scottish Korean Restaraunt of the Year

Seoul is Aberdeen’s go-to spot for authentic Korean cuisine, offering everything from sizzling Korean BBQ to comforting bowls of bibimbap and ramen. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Korean food or a first-timer, this family-run restaurant delivers bold flavors and a welcoming atmosphere that keeps diners coming back. I personally consider their bibimbap
Mike (Silver Darling)
Seafood delights

If you’re looking for a dining experience that blends fresh, locally sourced seafood with breathtaking waterfront views, The Silver Darling is a must-visit. Nestled in the heart of Aberdeen’s harbour, this restaurant offers an elegant yet cozy setting, making it perfect for everything from special occasions to leisurely lunches.
Michael
Culinary Adventurer (Except Not Really)
Michael doesn’t like to eat out. Not in the “Oh, I prefer home-cooked meals” way, but in the “Why would I pay £15 for a meal when I can eat toast?” kind of way. Restaurants? Overrated. Cafés? A trap for people who like spending £4 on burnt milk. But give him a rowie, and suddenly, he’s a man of refined taste.
For the uninitiated, a rowie (or buttery, if you insist) is essentially what happens when a croissant gives up on its dreams and decides to be aggressively Scottish. It’s salty, greasy, and dense enough to be classified as a weapon in some countries. And yet, for Michael, it’s the pinnacle of gastronomy.
“Why would I need anything else?” he asks, biting into the laminated layers of lard and existential dread. It’s a fair point—rowies don’t require reservations, tipping, or small talk with waitstaff. They don’t pretend to be artisanal. They don’t come on a slate with a deconstructed drizzle of disappointment. They just exist, unapologetically, like Michael himself.
So while the rest of us browse menus, Michael stands firm, rowie in hand, secure in the knowledge that he will never be scammed by “truffle-infused” anything. Perhaps he’s onto something. Or perhaps he just needs to eat a vegetable. The jury is still out.
Aberdeen is full of incredible spots to eat, and we’ve only scratched the surface. Whether you're after fresh seafood, cozy cafés, or a no-fuss local gem, there’s always something new to discover. We’ll be back soon with more favorites—so stay hungry and stay tuned!
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