Set on the banks of the River Dee, The Boat Inn is a historic 18th-century coaching inn with a warm, relaxed atmosphere. Its menus focus on freshly prepared, seasonal food using locally sourced ingredients, making it a convenient choice for lunch, dinner or drinks just a short drive from Kincardine Castle.

Located in the small village of Dinnet, KITE is a stylish local destination well placed for guests exploring the Muir of Dinnet and the wider Cairngorms. Its contemporary approach and rural setting make it an appealing stopping point during a day spent discovering the landscapes and villages of Royal Deeside.

Close to Tarland, Douneside House offers one of the area’s most refined dining experiences. Guests can choose between relaxed seasonal dining in The Conservatory and a tasting-menu experience in The Library, with much of the produce coming directly from Douneside’s own organic kitchen garden alongside carefully selected Scottish ingredients.

Non-residents are welcome, although advance reservations are recommended, particularly for The Library and afternoon tea.

At the beautiful Bridge of Feugh near Banchory, Falls is the fine-dining restaurant from award-winning chef Orry Shand. The restaurant brings an ambitious contemporary approach to dining in Royal Deeside, making it particularly suited to guests looking for a special lunch or dinner during their stay.

Its riverside location also makes it easy to combine a meal with a visit to the famous Falls of Feugh.

Occupying a lovely position beside the River Dee, Banchory Lodge combines a relaxed country-house atmosphere with contemporary dining. The hotel’s restaurant and bar provide an attractive setting for lunch, dinner or drinks, with the riverside location particularly inviting on a fine Deeside afternoon.

A long-established favourite on North Deeside Road, Borsalino serves classic and contemporary Italian dishes in a welcoming, relaxed setting. The restaurant has been part of the north-east Scotland dining scene for decades and offers an extensive selection of Italian favourites, alongside wines and family-friendly choices.

In the heart of Ballater, Fish Shop combines a contemporary seafood restaurant with a traditional fishmonger. The focus is on fresh, responsibly sourced seafood from Scotland and the British Isles, served in an informal and beautifully designed setting that celebrates Scotland’s fishing heritage.

It makes an excellent choice for lunch or dinner as part of a day exploring Ballater and Upper Deeside.

At the heart of Braemar, The Fife Arms is a celebrated Highland hotel where food, art and Scottish heritage come together. Dining ranges from seasonal Scottish cooking in The Clunie Dining Room to afternoon tea, cocktails and an extraordinary whisky collection, with ingredients sourced from local farmers, gamekeepers and producers wherever possible.

Even without staying at the hotel, a meal, afternoon tea or drink provides a memorable addition to a day exploring Braemar.

Part of The Fife Arms but with the character of a lively village pub, The Flying Stag is a relaxed choice for hearty Scottish food, local beers, whiskies and spirits. Locals and visitors mingle in an atmospheric setting, with regular live Scottish folk music adding to its sense of place.

The menu features comforting pub favourites and seasonal dishes, making it particularly appealing after a day walking or sightseeing in the Cairngorms.

For something more casual, The Bothy is a welcoming café in the heart of Braemar serving breakfasts, brunches and lunches alongside homemade cakes, bakes and a broad selection of hot drinks. Its relaxed atmosphere makes it an ideal place for tea, coffee or a warming hot chocolate while exploring the village.