The Winking Owl, Craft Ale Pub & Bar
A charming chalet pub in Aviemore serving Scottish and international dishes with mountain views. Known for its cozy atmosphere, friendly staff, and he...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Blue hour photography, calmer galleries
The Winking Owl, Craft Ale Pub & Bar
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming chalet pub in Aviemore serving Scottish and international dishes with mountain views. Known for its cozy atmosphere, friendly staff, and hearty meals.
Book in Advance
Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends and during peak times, as the restaurant can get very busy.
Steak Night Wednesdays
Visit on Wednesday for steak night or to try their popular black garlic pork dish.
Quick Facts
Cuisine
Scottish, International
Price
Mid-range
Phone
+44 1479 812368
Address
123 Grampian Rd, Aviemore, PH22 1RH, United Kingdom
Website
winkingowlaviemore.com/Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Hearty & Generous Portions
Experience incredibly hearty food with large portions, offering excellent value for money. A must-visit for comfort food lovers.
Cozy Atmosphere & Friendly Staff
Enjoy a laid-back and friendly atmosphere with exceptionally attentive staff who add to the charming dining experience.
Award-Winning Cuisine
The chef is a master, creating a varied menu with options for most. Delicious meals, from perfectly cooked steak to the best soup ever.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Menu
Most Popular Items
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book in Advance
Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends and during peak times, as the restaurant can get very busy.
Steak Night Wednesdays
Visit on Wednesday for steak night or to try their popular black garlic pork dish.
Choose Your Vibe
Dine upstairs for a more traditional restaurant feel or downstairs in the pub area for a casual atmosphere.
Dog-Friendly Charm
Bring your furry friends along; the restaurant is dog-friendly, adding to its welcoming and inclusive charm.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book in Advance
Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends and during peak times, as the restaurant can get very busy.
Steak Night Wednesdays
Visit on Wednesday for steak night or to try their popular black garlic pork dish.
Choose Your Vibe
Dine upstairs for a more traditional restaurant feel or downstairs in the pub area for a casual atmosphere.
Dog-Friendly Charm
Bring your furry friends along; the restaurant is dog-friendly, adding to its welcoming and inclusive charm.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Winking Owl is praised for its hearty, generous portions and exceptional food, with many highlighting specific dishes like the steak pie and soup. The atmosphere is consistently described as cozy and friendly, enhanced by attentive staff. However, some reviews mention inconsistencies in food quality and temperature, with occasional issues like tough meat or cold vegetables, though the restaurant often rectifies these with discounts or apologies.
"This place is exceptional for food. If you are in the area it is a must visit. The chef is a master. The menu is varied and has options for most. Prices are good with huge portions. The service is good and friendly. Recommend booking in advance if you can as can be busy. We had an hour wait on a Sunday at 6.30 before we could be seated. The view from the glass window is nice. The bothy bar downstairs is OK for a drink."
Tracey McDonald
"Wonderful experience! My husband and I had a light dinner and dessert here recently. I had the soup of the day, which was carrot & coriander soup and honestly it was the best soup I've ever had! I wanted to ask for the recipe :) My husband had the Cullen skink....which he loved. We ended with sticky toffee pudding and it did not disappoint! Staff were very friendly and attentive. We will definitely be back!"
Keri Atnip
"Great laid back atmosphere. Brilliant hearty food with large portions. Good choice of beer. Nice outdoor seating.
Staff although busy were friendly and professional.
Recommend you book as it seemed busy."
Kris V
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, The Winking Owl welcomes dogs, making it a great spot to bring your pet along.
It is highly recommended to book in advance, especially for weekends and busy periods, as the restaurant often gets full.
Popular dishes include the quinoa burger, black garlic pork, steak and Guinness pie, and the sticky toffee pudding.
Yes, The Winking Owl offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan options on its menu.
Yes, the 'bothy bar' downstairs hosts live music on Fridays and Saturdays.
The Winking Owl offers a cozy, laid-back atmosphere with friendly staff, featuring a pub area and a more formal restaurant upstairs.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit