Scotland the best
Vegetarian restaurants
Scotch beef, lamb and pork might be world-famous, but there are still options galore for non-meat eaters Phoenix Cafe
Detour from the main A96 Inverness–Elgin road to Findhorn and the famous community, a village with streets of brilliant architectural buildings. There is a great deli and this vibrant cafe by the Universal Hall. Very pleasant garden terrace. Seven days ’til 5pm (hot food ’til 3pm). La Bohème, by the gate on the road in, also serves vegetarian pizzas, crêpes, juices etc, with outside tables. 01309 690110
The Wildcat
A great asset to Fort William, a vegan cafe with great coffee, teas and home-made hot and cold food. Locally sourced and largely organic with a small wholefoods shop. A buzzing, busy place full of locals and tourists. Sustainable approach to everything, including the loo rolls. Seven days, daytime only.
Food Story
An always ambient cafe to hang out in and eat ethically and heartily, with studios for yoga, life-drawing classes, etc. Creative approach to lounging, living and lunch. 8am-9/10pm. foodstorycafe.co.uk
Musicker, Rothesay
Beside the castle, 200m up from the ferry. Great pastries, panini and soup. Best coffee in town. And the ginger cake! Totally vegetarian! Nice books, old jukebox, newspapers, blues, jazz CDs for sale. Friendly, relaxed. Loyal clientele. Monday-Saturday 10am-5pm. musicker.co.uk 01700 502287
Bonobo Café
A true workers’ co-operative purveying only vegan food to a committed and growing Aberdeen following. Breakfast (not Mon) and lunch. Unique dishes and replicates, for example, the full Scottish breakfast and the maccy cheese. Small downstairs counter, café room upstairs, and Aberdeen’s best roof-terrace garden – a tranquil spot. bonobotribe.co.uk 01224 636777
Peter Irvine is the author of the essential travel guide Scotland the Best published by Collins, priced £15.99