We are lucky enough to Mike, a private chef, on board Splendour, who will keep foodies happy and well fed with the best produce that Argyll has to offer during our cruises.
We often get asked about our favourite places to eat in Oban, though so whether you are celebrating an occasion like an anniversary, or looking for some warming food after wild swimming, there are plenty of great restaurants and cafes to visit before or after you join us for your trip aboard Splendour. You really are spoilt for choice.
Here are some of our favourite places to sample local seafood, sweet treats and fresh produce. In no particular order . . .
1. If you want a coffee to accompany a morning stroll along the harbour, or you are keen to sample the famous Scottish morning roll, Roxy’s Coffee & Tea House is often busy with queues forming at 9 a.m.
2. Cuan Mor is great for a lively meal with your family and friends, especially if you have booked a private charter. Cuan More means Big Ocean in Gaelic, so there really is no better place to embark on your cruising holiday!
3. The Brasserie at the hotel La Perle serves seafood and French favourites, as well as a selection of Scottish cheeses. It used to be a Lebanese grill and mezze in case you were wondering where Baab went. Nextdoor the LuLu Lounge also offers cocktails so that you can start your holiday with a special toast to the weather gods.
4. New this year is Mandarin Thai. Tucked up a side street this restaurant is great for vegetarians and meat eaters alike. Booking is advisable to avoid disappointment as it is smaller.
5. Fish and chip lovers have choices aplenty but we can often be found at the George Street Fish and Chip shop.
6. If food on the go is the name of the game, the Oban Seafood Hut and Food from Argyll at the Pier cafe and shop are great options, handily located near the Calmac ferry terminal and train station.
7. History lovers can combine a cafe meal with a heritage exhibition at the cafe at the Rockfield.
8. The Oban Chocolate Company is fast becoming an institution. Sit in for tea and cake and you can while away the hours by watching the boats come and go from the marina. Or buy some hand made truffles to take home with you. American visitors will feel at home with the peanut butter and jelly truffles!
9. A firm favourite with the Creek family, both young and old, is the Pokey Hat, which serves freshly made ice cream. You will have to fight us for the last pistachio at the end of the day though . . .
10. Finally, if you are in need of a night cap, the Oban Inn has a fabulous selection of whiskies and locally brewed beer. You can sit outside in the town square if the weather is warm, and watch Splendour docked in the marina as we replenish the food orders. Slàinte!
We only have space on two of our cruises out of Oban this year – the Skye and the Small Isles cruise from the 13th of July and the Corryvreckan to the Shiants cruise from the 20th of July. So if you are inspired by the culinary scene to book a last minute getaway, you will have to book quickly!
“One of my very favourite adventures.” Ron Domin
Private charter | May 2023
“Thank you for a wonderful trip and for taking us to fabulous places. Food was excellent.” Paul and Christine Edwards
Arran and Ailsa Craig Wildlife Explorer | April 2023
“Everything we’d hoped for and more. We so enjoyed the walks, food, company, scenery and laughter.” Denise and Allan
Inlets and Islands of Wild Argyll | May 2022
“Thank you for a brilliant holiday. I loved every bit about it. Food was fantastic. I’ll be back.” Brigitte Jones
Kyles and the Isles | April 2023
“A gem of a holiday. We think we’ll definitely be back in the future to enjoy another trip with Ted and his top team.”
Skye and the Small Isles | July 2023