Where to Find the Best Breakfast and Lunch in Inverness (A Local's Guide)

Inverness may be Scotland’s smallest first-city, but its food scene punches well above its weight particularly when it comes to breakfast and lunch. From hearty fry-ups to elegant brunches and homestyle lunches, here’s your guide to the best breakfast in Inverness and the best lunch in Inverness, backed by local praise and reputable reviews.

Best Breakfast Inverness

1. Rendezvous Café

Tucked in the heart of the old city on Church Street, Rendezvous Café is a breakfast legend in Inverness. Serving all-day breakfast and lunch, it offers classics like full Scottish breakfasts, fluffy pancakes, French toast, and more—all crafted with fresh, local ingredients. Whether it’s cozy oats or a towering stack of pancakes, this café delivers one of the best breakfasts in Inverness.

2. Hillhead Café, Tornagrain

A refined brunch alternative just outside the city, Hillhead Café serves award-worthy dishes such as “Rabbie Burns breakfast” with haggis, poached egg, avocado, and basil oil, as well as lighter options like granola and yoghurt bowls . If you're searching for utterly memorable brunch—this is one of the top places for best breakfast in Inverness.

3. Sùgh Ùr Café

Located on Southside Road, Sùgh Ùr (pronounced "soo-oor") offers a bright take on breakfast with its fresh juices, waffles (topped with Biscoff, fruit, or even bacon and black pudding), and healthy or indulgent choices alike. It’s a delightful contender for best breakfast in Inverness that balances flavor and creativity.

4. XOKO Bakehouse & Coffee Bar

On Bridge Street, XOKO lures early birds with irresistibly soft cinnamon buns, gourmet sausage rolls, and unique treats like their Dauphinoise Danish . A favorite among locals and NC500 travelers alike, this is an ideal stop if you're seeking something sweet to complement your best breakfast in Inverness adventure.

Best Lunch Inverness

5. Urquhart’s Restaurant

A family-run gem nestled near the River Ness, Urquhart’s is loved for its beautiful home-cooked cuisine and cozy atmosphere. It’s a refined yet homely option ideal for those seeking the best lunch in Inverness featured in a relaxed, welcoming setting.

6. The Kitchen Restaurant

Stylish and modern, this family-run eatery on the river offers excellent Scottish fare and a highly praised lunch menu. With its scenic layout and friendly vibes, it ranks high among spots serving the best lunch in Inverness.

7. Victorian Market Food Court

For casual lunches that offer variety and value, head to the Victorian Market’s food court. It’s packed with local vendors and street-food options that locals rave about for being both affordable and delicious.

8. Comfort Foods

Comfort Foods may look like a simple “greasy spoon,” but locals swear by it. One Reddit user praises: “Comfort Foods for mostly simple but consistent quality/good ingredients, don’t be fooled by the greasy spoon vibe, food is lovely”—a solid nod indeed when hunting for best lunch in Inverness on a budget.

From local conversations:

Girvans has become an institution in Inverness for over 30 years, famed for brunch and baked treats—although now listed for sale, its charm remains unforgettable.

Dougie’s Chippy, recently crowned Scotland’s best fish & chip shop, serves traditional breakfasts, pizzas, and light bites—a surprising but delicious contender for both breakfast and lunch.

Final Take

Whether you're here for a food-centric stay or just passing through, Inverness delivers. For the best breakfast in Inverness, start your day at Rendezvous Café, Hillhead Café, Sùgh Ùr, or XOKO—each offers something uniquely memorable.

When lunch calls, gravitate toward Urquhart’s, The Kitchen Restaurant, or hunt down great value at the Victorian Market and Comfort Foods.

From neighborhood charm to foodie flair, Inverness offers a hearty dose of the Highlands’ culinary spirit—one meal at a time.