THE Scottish Highlands has been named as one of the UK’s top food destinations by a prestigious restaurant guide.

The AA's The Restaurant Guide 2023 reviewed restaurants from all over the UK, with its list featuring over 1400 venues awarded rosettes for culinary excellence by inspectors.

And outside of Edinburgh, the Highlands has been branded one of the best areas to visit for food lovers, with 27 restaurants being named in the guide – narrowly beaten by Edinburgh’s 29 venues.

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Among the Highland restaurants on the list were Edinbane Lodge in Edinbane, Kilcamb Lodge Hotel in Strontian and Loch Bay Restaurant in Stein - while Mingary Castle in Kilchoan and The Dipping Lugger in Ullapool made their debuts in this year’s edition.

Perth and Kinross came in behind the Highlands with 20 restaurants named, including Andrew Fairlie at Gleneagles in Auchterarder, Fonab Castle Hotel & Spa in Pitlochry and 63 Tay Street Restaurant in Perth.

Meanwhile, The Glenturret Lalique Restaurant in Crieff and The Grandtully Hotel made the list for the first time.

Simon Numphud, managing director of AA Media, said: “We are delighted to publish the leading guide to the UK’s top dining destinations, with 150 new establishments added to The Restaurant Guide 2023.

"From northern stars to the heart of England, Scotland to the capital, the restaurants in this year’s guide demonstrate the high quality of culinary experiences across the country, offering delicious food and service of the highest standard.”