Looking for the perfect spot to enjoy a great coffee in the Highland capital? Whether you are a local seeking your next favourite haunt or a visitor exploring Inverness on a Highland getaway, this guide covers the 20 best cafés in Inverness for 2026.
From artisan roasters tucked away on quiet streets to community-focused spaces serving locally sourced produce, Inverness has quietly built one of Scotland’s most impressive café scenes. Read on to discover where to find the finest brews, the tastiest bakes, and the cosiest corners in the city.
Why Inverness Has Become a Coffee Destination
The café culture in Inverness has transformed dramatically over the past decade. While national chains have found their footing here, it is the independent coffee shops that truly define the city’s character.
Local roasters now supply cafés across the Highlands, and new openings continue to raise the bar. The result is a thriving scene where quality, community, and creativity come together in every cup.
1. The Milk Bar
The Milk Bar has cultivated a loyal following by staying true to its vision of providing high-quality coffee with a deeply personal touch. By partnering with local Highland icons like the Inverness Coffee Roasting Company and Black Isle Dairy, the café ensures that every item on its menu reflects the rich flavours of the region.
Whether you are stopping in for one of their signature cortados or a thick real-dairy milkshake, the experience is defined by the warmth of baristas who treat every customer with genuine care.
The café’s location within the Market Arcade provides a uniquely atmospheric setting that feels worlds away from the busy city streets outside.
Since the Victorian Market underwent an extensive upgrade in 2022, the area has become a bright and vibrant hub for independent traders, though The Milk Bar retains the intimate “hidden gem” feel that first made it famous. It is an ideal spot for those who want to support local businesses while enjoying a moment of quiet in a historic architectural setting.
Interesting Fact: The Milk Bar was born from a dream of two managers who, after years of working for major national coffee chains, wanted to create a space where provenance and personal connection came before corporate checklists.
| Detail | Information |
| Address | 8 Market Arcade, Victorian Market, IV1 1PJ |
| Hours | Tuesday to Sunday, 8am to 4pm |
| Price Range | £ |
| Best For | Coffee purists, local produce enthusiasts |
| Parking | Victorian Market car park nearby |
Useful Links:
2. XOKO Bakehouse and Coffee Bar
XOKO has quickly redefined the standard for artisan baking in the Highlands, offering a sensory experience that begins the moment you step through the door and smell the fresh sourdough. The open-plan design allows you to watch the bakers at work, hand-rolling croissants with French butter or pulling trays of their famous cinnamon rolls from the oven.
It’s more than just a bakery; it’s a vibrant community hub that prioritises inclusivity, proudly supporting Highland Pride and creating a “safe space” atmosphere where everyone from early-morning commuters to relaxed weekenders feels at home.
The menu is a creative fusion of the owners’ backgrounds, blending traditional British techniques with bold international influences like Mexican stews and Gujarati dal.
Their commitment to quality is evident in their coffee program, which features award-winning Colombian beans specifically selected for their notes of chocolate and cherry.
Whether you are grabbing a quick “best-in-the-city” pain au chocolat or lingering over a leisurely brunch by the river, XOKO offers a level of culinary ambition that has made it an essential stop on any Inverness itinerary.
Interesting Fact: The name “XOKO” (pronounced shaw-ko) comes from the ancient Nahuatl language of Mexico and means “the village where the bitter fruit grows”—which is believed to be the linguistic origin of the word “chocolate”.
| Detail | Information |
| Address | 13 Bridge Street, IV1 1HG |
| Hours | Tuesday to Sunday, 7am to 5pm (closed Mondays) |
| Price Range | ££ |
| Best For | Pastry lovers, early risers, NC500 travellers |
| Parking | Rose Street car park (5-minute walk) |
Useful Links:
3. Perk Coffee and Doughnuts
Perk has mastered the art of the “day-to-night” transition, serving as a bright, neon-accented sanctuary for coffee lovers during the morning before transforming into an intimate espresso martini bar as the sun sets.
The café was born from the owner’s personal quest for the perfect flat white, and that dedication to quality remains at its core today, with every cup brewed using specialty beans from Glasgow-based roasters, Dear Green.
The atmosphere is often described as “Brooklyn meets the Highlands,” combining a high-energy, friendly vibe with a commitment to local sourcing and artisanal craft.
While the coffee is world-class, it is the doughnuts that have made Perk a household name in Inverness.
These are not your average treats; each one is hand-rolled and fermented for over 24 hours to ensure a light, fluffy texture before being filled with creative concoctions like rhubarb compote, cardamom custard, or the fan-favourite “Vegan Bizz-coff”.
The menu rotates seasonally, ensuring there is always a new flavour to discover, whether you are stopping by for a mid-morning sugar hit or a sophisticated late-night cocktail paired with mini doughnuts.
Interesting Fact: In early 2026, Perk officially expanded its footprint in the city by taking over the space formerly occupied by Utopia Café on Tomatin Road, bringing their signature doughnuts to the Hilton area for the first time.
| Detail | Information |
| Address | 36 Church Street, IV1 1EH |
| Hours | 8am to 3pm daily; bar service Thursday to Sunday evenings |
| Price Range | ££ |
| Best For | Doughnut enthusiasts, evening cocktails, coffee connoisseurs |
| Parking | On-street parking available |
Useful Links:
4. Inverness Coffee Roasting Company
For those who view coffee as a craft rather than just a morning ritual, the Inverness Coffee Roasting Company is the city’s ultimate sanctuary.
Located on Chapel Street, this specialised espresso bar and bean shop is one of the few places in the Highlands where you can experience the entire journey of the bean, from its raw green state to a perfectly pulled shot.
The passionate “Team Bean” operates with a philosophy of transparency and expertise, hand-roasting small batches every week to ensure optimal freshness. The shop itself is compact and full of character, often filled with the rich, toasted aroma of their latest single-origin discovery or their signature “Good Morning” gourmet blend.
Visitors are encouraged to do more than just drink; the team loves to chat about brewing methods, from Aeropress techniques to the nuances of pour-overs.
Because they supply many of the top establishments across the Highlands—including the prestigious Torridon Hotel—drinking here feels like getting an exclusive peek behind the curtain of the region’s coffee scene.
Whether you are grabbing a flat white to go or attending one of their specialised barista training sessions, the emphasis is always on quality, ethical sourcing, and the “stories” behind the farmers who grow the beans.
Interesting Fact: The business was famously founded in 2015 after owner Kevin Donnachie bumped into a friend in the vegetable aisle of a local Tesco who mentioned they were looking for someone to buy their coffee business—Kevin said “yes” on the spot.
| Detail | Information |
| Address | 15 Chapel Street, IV1 1NA |
| Hours | Tuesday to Saturday, 9am to 2pm |
| Price Range | ££ |
| Best For | Coffee enthusiasts, bean purchases, learning about roasting |
| Parking | Chapel Street car park |
Useful Links:
5. Grain and Grind
Grain and Grind has successfully brought a slice of Glasgow’s vibrant coffee culture to the Highlands, establishing its northernmost outpost on Tomnahurich Street. The café is celebrated for its bright, airy, and modern aesthetic, filled with thriving plants and soulful music that make it a popular retreat for both focused remote workers and weekend brunch-goers.
Unlike many smaller shops, this space feels roomy and unhurried, offering a rotating selection of over twenty unique roasts that are all expertly prepared by a knowledgeable and genuinely friendly team.
Beyond the exceptional coffee, Grain and Grind is a destination for those with a sweet tooth. Their counter is famously piled high with “extra-large” brownies, stuffed chocolate cookies, and indulgent bakes that have become local legends.
The kitchen also caters thoughtfully to diverse needs, offering a wide range of vegan and gluten-free treats alongside savoury staples like their butter-heavy ham and cheese croissants. Whether you are popping in for a filter coffee and a Biscoff blondie or picking up a bag of freshly roasted beans for home, the experience consistently feels high-end yet accessible.
Interesting Fact: While Grain and Grind started in Glasgow’s Southside in 2018, the business grew so rapidly that they eventually moved their entire main roasting operation to Inverness, making the Highland capital the central hub for all their coffee production.
| Detail | Information |
| Address | 1 Tomnahurich Street, IV3 5DA |
| Hours | Monday to Saturday 8am to 5.30pm, Sunday 9am to 5pm |
| Price Range | ££ |
| Best For | Brunch, specialty coffee, relaxed working |
| Parking | Nearby residential streets |
Useful Links:
6. Sùgh Ùr (Replacing Velocity Café)
Sùgh Ùr (pronounced soo-oor) has quickly established itself as a vibrant cornerstone of the Crown neighbourhood, bringing a fresh, health-focused energy to the city’s café scene.
As the new incarnation of the popular “JuicyNess,” this café specialises in “wholesome food for the soul,” offering a menu packed with nutrient-dense smoothies, protein shakes, and their signature cold-pressed juices.
The interior is bright and welcoming, designed to be a “feel-good” space where locals gather for inventive brunch dishes like fluffy loaded waffles or the “Plant Plate”—a vegan masterpiece featuring sourdough topped with smashed avocado, scrambled tofu, and chipotle baked beans.
While it caters heavily to the health-conscious and plant-based community, the café is all about balance, also serving hearty options like “Marag Dhubh” (black pudding) breakfast plates for those seeking a more traditional Highland start.
The atmosphere is laid-back and unpretentious, with a team that prides itself on using seasonal, local ingredients to create dishes that are as visually stunning as they are delicious.
Whether you are stopping in for a post-workout protein truffle or a leisurely Saturday soul bowl, Sùgh Ùr offers a refreshing alternative that proves healthy eating never has to be boring.
Interesting Fact: The name “Sùgh Ùr” is Scottish Gaelic for “fresh juice” or “new juice,” and the branding features a playful visual pun on the word “sugar,” reflecting the café’s mission to provide natural sweetness without the refined additives.
| Detail | Information |
| Address | 6 Southside Road, IV2 3AU |
| Hours | Thursday to Monday 8:30am to 3:30pm (Closed Tue/Wed) |
| Price Range | ££ |
| Best For | Healthy brunch, fresh juices, vegan options |
| Parking | Limited on-street parking |
Useful Links:
7. The Cup and Cone
The Cup and Cone is a cherished neighbourhood gem in the Crown district, offering a warm and unpretentious sanctuary that feels like the heart of the local community. While it is a smaller, more intimate space, it packs a punch with its commitment to high-quality Highland ingredients, notably serving coffee made with non-homogenised milk from the nearby Black Isle Dairy.
This choice gives their flat whites and mochas a distinctively rich, creamy texture that has earned them a dedicated following among coffee purists who appreciate the difference that local, minimally processed dairy can make.
The café is also a destination of choice for the plant-based community, largely thanks to its close partnership with the Pure Vegan Bakery.
Visitors can often find an impressive array of up to eight different vegan cakes and traybakes on any given day, ranging from Nutella blondies to their famous millionaire shortbread.
Combined with a dog-friendly policy that includes fresh water and plenty of attention for four-legged guests, it has become a “must-visit” for families and pet owners looking for a relaxed spot slightly away from the city-centre crowds.
Interesting Fact: The Cup and Cone’s signature “Espresso Shake”—a refreshing blend of high-quality espresso and real dairy ice cream—has become a local cult favorite, particularly for those looking for a chilled caffeine hit during the Highland summer.
| Detail | Information |
| Address | 14 Telford Street, IV3 5LE |
| Hours | Monday to Saturday 9am to 5pm, Sunday 10am to 4pm |
| Price Range | £ |
| Best For | Families, ice cream lovers, vegan options |
| Parking | On-street parking available |
Useful Links:
8. Leakey’s Bookshop Café
Leakey’s Bookshop is a place of pilgrimage for bibliophiles, but its small café is what allows visitors to truly soak in the magic of the building. Situated on a mezzanine level overlooking a sea of over 100,000 second-hand books, the café provides a vantage point like no other in Scotland.
The menu is intentionally simple and nostalgic, focusing on “home-style” comforts like thick wedges of Victoria sponge, hearty vegetable soups, and warm scones served with jam and cream.
The experience of sipping a hot coffee while the scent of old paper drifts up from the shelves below creates a sensory experience that feels as though you’ve stepped back in time.
The atmosphere is dominated by the massive wood-burning stove that roars in the centre of the shop during the winter months, casting a flickering orange glow across the old church pews and spiral staircases.
Because the building—a former Gaelic Free Church—retains its original high ceilings and stained glass, the acoustics are soft and peaceful, making it the perfect sanctuary for solo travellers or those looking to escape a rainy Highland afternoon.
It is one of the few places where “slow living” isn’t just a trend, but a necessity, as the lack of Wi-Fi encourages you to put down your phone and pick up a book instead.
Interesting Fact: The bookshop was founded by Charles Leakey in 1979 and remains a family-run business; the building itself dates back to 1793 and was once the largest Gaelic church in the Highlands.
| Detail | Information |
| Address | Church Street, IV1 1EY |
| Hours | Monday to Saturday 10am to 5.30pm |
| Price Range | £ |
| Best For | Book lovers, rainy day retreats, unique atmosphere |
| Parking | Rose Street car park |
Useful Links:
9. The Mustard Seed Restaurant
While widely acclaimed as one of the city’s premier dining destinations, The Mustard Seed offers a surprisingly relaxed and accessible café experience during its daytime hours.
The building is a stunningly converted former Congregational church, featuring a double-height ceiling and a massive open-plan kitchen that hums with activity. For those visiting between lunch and dinner service, it serves as a sophisticated spot to enjoy a high-quality coffee or a glass of wine paired with light bites.
The interior design manages to be both grand and intimate, with dark wood accents and soft lighting that highlight the building’s ecclesiastical history.
The true “star” of The Mustard Seed, however, is its top-floor terrace. Perched overlooking the River Ness, this outdoor balcony offers what many consider to be the best view in Inverness.
It is the perfect place to watch the river flow toward the Moray Firth while enjoying a slice of their famous homemade cheesecake or a fresh scone. Because it sits slightly back from the main tourist thoroughfares, the terrace provides a peaceful retreat where you can soak in the Highland air and the rhythmic sounds of the water below.
Interesting Fact: During the conversion from a church to a restaurant in 1995, many of the original features were preserved or repurposed; for instance, the restaurant’s distinctive name is a reference to a biblical parable, paying homage to the building’s religious heritage.
| Detail | Information |
| Address | 16 Fraser Street, IV1 1DW |
| Hours | Daily from 12pm (check for café hours) |
| Price Range | £££ |
| Best For | River views, special occasions, fine dining |
| Parking | Nearby public car parks |
Useful Links:
10. Café Artysans
Café Artysans is more than just a place for a great cup of coffee; it is a social enterprise with a heart, dedicated to supporting young people in the Highlands.
Run by the Calman Trust, the café provides valuable work experience and training for young adults who have faced challenges in their lives, helping them build the skills and confidence needed for a career in hospitality. This mission creates a warm, community-focused atmosphere where the staff are genuinely invested in your experience.
The café’s central location on Church Street makes it a convenient and meaningful stop for anyone looking to enjoy high-quality food while supporting a local cause.
The menu at Café Artysans focuses on fresh, seasonal ingredients, with a particular emphasis on hearty Scottish breakfasts and lunches. Their “Highland Breakfast” is a local favorite, featuring locally sourced sausages and black pudding, while their selection of homemade cakes and traybakes offers the perfect afternoon treat.
The interior is spacious and modern, with large windows that provide a great view of the bustling street outside.
Whether you’re stopping in for a quick espresso or a long, leisurely lunch, you’ll find that the quality of the food is matched only by the positive impact the café has on the local community.
Interesting Fact: Every penny of profit made at Café Artysans is reinvested back into the Calman Trust to continue their work supporting and housing young people across the Highlands.
| Detail | Information |
| Address | 27 Church Street, IV1 1DY |
| Hours | Monday to Saturday 9am to 9pm, Sunday 10am to 5pm |
| Price Range | ££ |
| Best For | All-day dining, central location, dietary requirements |
| Parking | Rose Street car park |
Useful Links:
11. The Bakery in Inverness
The Bakery is the quintessential “honest” café, standing as a testament to the enduring appeal of simple, well-made food served without pretension. Located on Tomnahurich Street, it has long been the preferred morning destination for Invernessians who appreciate a classic Highland welcome and a plate that doesn’t leave them hungry.
The atmosphere is refreshingly un-trendy; instead of minimalist industrialism, you’ll find a clean, functional, and bustling space where the sound of clinking cutlery and local chatter provides the soundtrack to your morning.
The menu is famously consistent, specializing in what many consider the best value full Scottish breakfast in the city center. Beyond the morning rush, the café is a reliable spot for lunch, offering a range of “just like home” soups and sandwiches that change daily based on what’s fresh.
It is the kind of place where the staff know many of the customers by name and the coffee is served hot, strong, and fast.
While it may not be the place for a third-wave pour-over, it is absolutely the place for anyone seeking the authentic pulse of everyday Inverness life.
Interesting Fact: Despite the rapid modernisation of the surrounding streets, The Bakery in Inverness has remained remarkably unchanged for years, earning it a reputation among locals as a “time capsule” of traditional Scottish café culture.
| Detail | Information |
| Address | 32 Tomnahurich Street, IV3 5DQ |
| Hours | Monday to Saturday 8am to 4pm |
| Price Range | £ |
| Best For | Traditional breakfasts, locals, value |
| Parking | On-street parking |
Useful Links:
12. Black Isle Bar and Rooms
While many know this spot as a premier craft beer destination, its daytime café operation offers a stylish, urban retreat for coffee lovers.
The interior is a masterclass in industrial-rustic design, featuring long wooden trestle tables, exposed brickwork, and a living wall that brings a burst of green to the city centre.
During the day, the atmosphere is bright and relaxed, making it an excellent alternative workspace or a casual meeting spot where you can enjoy a high-quality coffee brewed with the same precision the team applies to their world-class ales.
The café experience here is often paired with their famous wood-fired pizzas, which are available from midday and use ingredients sourced directly from their own organic farm on the Black Isle.
This “farm-to-table” ethos extends to their milk and flour, ensuring that even a simple afternoon snack feels connected to the Highland landscape. For those who enjoy a bit of fresh air, their secret rooftop garden—hidden away from the wind—is one of the most unique places in Inverness to enjoy a latte and a bit of sun.
Interesting Fact: The building’s rooftop garden is more than just a seating area; it’s an “edible” space where the staff grow organic herbs and garnishes used in both the kitchen and the bar’s botanical cocktails.
| Detail | Information |
| Address | 68 Church Street, IV1 1EN |
| Hours | Daily from 11am |
| Price Range | ££ |
| Best For | Craft beer enthusiasts, stylish interiors, evening plans |
| Parking | Rose Street car park |
Useful Links:
13. Ness Walk Kiosk
The Ness Walk Kiosk offers arguably the most tranquil setting of any coffee spot in the city centre. Located directly across the water from the imposing red sandstone of Inverness Castle, the café provides a front-row seat to the gentle flow of the River Ness.
It is a particularly popular choice for walkers and cyclists navigating the Ness Islands loop, serving as a peaceful halfway point where you can rest and watch the local salmon fishermen wading in the river.
The atmosphere is light and breezy, mirroring the riverside path it sits upon.
The menu focuses on classic café fare executed with high-quality Scottish ingredients. Expect to find thick, traditional soups, generous sandwiches, and a rotating selection of home-baked cakes that taste like they’ve come straight from a Highland grandmother’s kitchen.
During the summer months, the outdoor seating is the place to be, offering a perfect vantage point for people-watching as tourists and locals alike stroll the picturesque banks of the Ness. It remains one of the few places in the city where the scenery is just as restorative as the caffeine.
Interesting Fact: The café is situated on a path that was historically used by the town’s residents to reach the “Ladies’ Walk,” a scenic promenade established in the 18th century for refined Victorian strolls.
| Detail | Information |
| Address | Ness Walk, IV3 5NE |
| Hours | Daily 9am to 5pm (seasonal variations) |
| Price Range | ££ |
| Best For | River views, outdoor seating, castle visitors |
| Parking | Limited nearby |
Useful Links:
14. The Kitchen Brasserie
The Kitchen Brasserie offers a more elevated daytime experience, set within a striking glass-fronted building that spans three floors. While it is a renowned destination for dinner, its afternoon service is a sophisticated secret for those who want to enjoy a premium coffee in a stylish, contemporary environment.
The floor-to-ceiling windows provide an unobstructed, panoramic view of the River Ness and the city’s historic skyline, making it an excellent spot for a business meeting or a quiet hour of reflection away from the more crowded high-street shops.
The café menu here leans towards the refined, featuring delicate pastries, artisan sandwiches, and high-quality loose-leaf teas alongside expertly made espresso drinks.
Because the kitchen is led by chefs dedicated to modern Scottish cuisine, even the simplest cake is presented with flair and uses top-tier local ingredients.
The service is professional and unhurried, allowing you to linger over your drink while watching the play of light on the water outside, creating a sense of luxury that is accessible even for a mid-afternoon break.
Interesting Fact: The building was specifically designed to look like a glass lantern when illuminated at night, making it one of the most recognizable pieces of modern architecture along the Inverness riverside.
| Detail | Information |
| Address | 15 Huntly Street, IV3 5PR |
| Hours | Tuesday to Saturday from 12pm |
| Price Range | £££ |
| Best For | Business meetings, refined dining, riverside setting |
| Parking | Huntly Street car park |
Useful Links:
15. Girvans Restaurant
Girvans is a cornerstone of the Inverness dining scene, maintaining a reputation for traditional hospitality that has spanned decades. While it operates as a full restaurant, its daytime café service is legendary among locals who appreciate a “proper” sit-down experience.
The atmosphere is warm and bustling, characterised by comfortable booth seating and a level of attentive, uniformed table service that is becoming increasingly rare. It is the kind of place where you can escape the Highland wind and settle in for a long chat over a pot of tea and a generous slice of their famous gateaux.
The menu is a celebration of classic comfort, focusing on consistency and quality. Their baking counter is a focal point, often loaded with traditional Scottish favourites like empire biscuits, fruit scones, and indulgent traybakes.
For those looking for something more substantial, their lunch menu offers “proper” meals—think silverside of beef or fresh haddock—making it the ideal choice for a multi-generational family outing. Girvans doesn’t chase trends; instead, it perfects the timeless appeal of a welcoming atmosphere and honest, home-style cooking.
Interesting Fact: Girvans has remained a family-run business since it first opened, and it is widely known in the city for having one of the most loyal workforces in the Highlands, with some staff members having served generations of the same local families.
| Detail | Information |
| Address | 2-4 Stephens Brae, IV1 1NA |
| Hours | Monday to Saturday 9am to 9pm |
| Price Range | ££ |
| Best For | Traditional dining, families, reliable classics |
| Parking | Eastgate car park |
Useful Links:
16. Sam’s Indian Café
Sam’s Indian Café brings a vibrant and aromatic twist to the Inverness café scene, proving that the city’s love for a “warm brew” extends far beyond the standard latte.
Located on Church Street, this casual eatery is a celebration of Indian café culture, where the atmosphere is relaxed and the hospitality is famously generous.
While they serve excellent coffee, the star of the show here is the authentic Masala Chai, brewed with a secret blend of spices and ginger that provides a comforting, fragrant heat—the perfect antidote to a chilly Highland morning.
The menu is a delightful exploration of Indian street food and snacks, making it an ideal spot for a light lunch or an afternoon pick-me-all. From crispy samosas and spicy pakoras to light, flavourful wraps, the food is prepared with a level of authenticity that transports your taste buds straight to the streets of Mumbai or Delhi.
The interior is simple and unpretentious, allowing the bold flavours and friendly service to take centre stage.
It’s a popular haunt for those seeking a quick, affordable, and deeply satisfying alternative to the more traditional British café fare.
Interesting Fact: Sam’s Indian Café is widely credited with introducing “authentic” chai to Inverness, moving away from the powdered “chai lattes” found in chains and instead using traditional slow-brewing methods that take significantly longer but result in a much deeper flavour profile.
| Detail | Information |
| Address | 87 Church Street, IV1 1ES |
| Hours | Daily 11am to 9pm |
| Price Range | £ |
| Best For | Indian cuisine, authentic chai, something different |
| Parking | Rose Street car park |
Useful Links:
17. The Aulde Café at The Storehouse
Located just a short drive from Inverness at Foulis Ferry, The Aulde Café at The Storehouse offers a quintessential Highland experience that blends spectacular views with world-class local produce.
The café is situated on the banks of the Cromarty Firth, providing a serene backdrop of water and hills that changes beautifully with the northern light.
The interior is spacious and rustic, featuring an open-plan kitchen and a bustling atmosphere that reflects its popularity as a destination for both locals and travellers exploring the North Coast 500. You can read out full NC500 guide here.
The food here is a true celebration of the “Larder of Scotland.” Because The Storehouse operates its own farm shop and specialty food hall, the café has direct access to the freshest seasonal ingredients, from succulent Black Isle beef to seafood landed just miles away.
Their baking is particularly renowned; the counter is daily laden with enormous fruit scones, decadent cakes, and traditional Scottish tray-bakes that have earned the café a legendary reputation. It is the perfect place to linger over a long lunch or a restorative afternoon coffee while watching the seals play in the firth outside.
Interesting Fact: The Storehouse is built on the site of a 18th-century rent-house, where local tenant farmers would once deliver their grain as “rent in kind” to the Landlord, the Clan Munro of Foulis.
| Detail | Information |
| Address | Foulis Ferry, IV6 7UJ |
| Hours | Monday to Saturday 9.30am to 5pm, Sunday 10am to 5pm |
| Price Range | £ |
| Best For | Fresh baking, craft shopping, Black Isle trips |
| Parking | Free on-site parking |
Useful Links:
18. Costa del Sol Café
Despite its sunny name, Costa del Sol is a quintessential Inverness institution that has stood the test of time on Castle Street. It is a no-nonsense, traditional café that prides itself on being a reliable “home away from home” for both locals and tourists visiting the nearby castle.
The interior is cozy and unpretentious, offering a warm refuge from the unpredictable Highland weather. It is the kind of place where you can find a classic toasted sandwich, a steaming mug of tea, and a friendly chat with the staff who have seen the city change around them for years.
The café’s position makes it one of the best spots for a quick, affordable refuel before or after climbing the hill to the Inverness Castle viewpoint. While many newer establishments focus on “Instagrammable” decor, Costa del Sol focuses on hearty portions and value for money, which has earned it a very loyal local following.
From their traditional breakfast plates to their selection of home-style cakes, everything is served with a genuine sense of hospitality that makes you feel like more than just a customer.
Interesting Fact: Costa del Sol is one of the longest-running independent cafés in the Castle Street area, having remained a consistent presence while dozens of other businesses have come and gone over the last two decades.
| Detail | Information |
| Address | Castle Street, IV2 3DU |
| Hours | Daily 9am to 5pm |
| Price Range | £ |
| Best For | Quick stops, castle visitors, central location |
| Parking | Castle Street car park |
Useful Links:
19. Aspendos
While Aspendos is primarily known as a premier Turkish and Mediterranean restaurant, its daytime presence on Queensgate offers a uniquely warm and aromatic café experience.
The interior is a feast for the senses, adorned with intricate Turkish lanterns, ornate tiles, and rich textiles that create an atmosphere of Middle Eastern opulence right in the heart of Inverness.
For those looking to move beyond the standard Americano, it is the best place in the city to experience authentic Turkish coffee—thick, potent, and traditionally prepared in a cezve.
The café service is a perfect mid-afternoon escape, especially when paired with their handmade baklava. The pastry is famously light, crisp, and dripping with honey and pistachios, providing a level of authenticity that is hard to match elsewhere in the Highlands.
During the day, the pace is leisurely, and the staff embody the legendary hospitality of the Mediterranean, often welcoming guests with a smile that makes a rainy Scottish afternoon feel a little brighter.
Interesting Fact: Aspendos is named after the ancient Greco-Roman city in Antalya, Turkey, which is home to one of the best-preserved Roman theatres in the world—a nod to the deep historical roots the owners bring to their craft.
| Detail | Information |
| Address | 26 Queensgate, IV1 1DJ |
| Hours | Daily 12pm to 10pm |
| Price Range | ££ |
| Best For | Turkish coffee, meze, international flavours |
| Parking | Eastgate car park |
Useful Links:
20. River House Restaurant
The WaterSide, located within the Glen Mhor Hotel complex, offers a front-row seat to the beauty of the River Ness. This café and bistro space is defined by its stunning conservatory and outdoor terrace, which allow guests to soak in the riverside views regardless of the Highland weather.
It strikes a perfect balance between the elegance of a hotel lounge and the relaxed vibe of a neighbourhood coffee shop, making it equally suitable for a formal afternoon tea or a casual post-walk latte.
The menu highlights local provenance, featuring artisanal coffee blends and a selection of pastries that change with the seasons. Because it is part of a complex that includes its own on-site brewery and distillery (Uile-bheist), there is a unique emphasis on craftsmanship that filters through to the café service.
Whether you are sitting under the heated canopy outside or watching the river flow by from the glass-walled interior, The WaterSide provides a sophisticated, calm conclusion to any tour of Inverness’s café culture.
Interesting Fact: The WaterSide is part of a pioneering sustainability project; the entire site is powered by a state-of-the-art water source heat pump system that harvests energy directly from the River Ness itself.
| Detail | Information |
| Address | 1 Greig Street, IV3 5PT |
| Hours | Wednesday to Sunday from 12pm (check current hours) |
| Price Range | £££ |
| Best For | Special occasions, river views, fine dining |
| Parking | Greig Street car park |
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Complete Comparison: 20 Best Cafés in Inverness
| Café | Location | Price | Best For | Specialty |
| The Milk Bar | Victorian Market | £ | Coffee purists | Local produce |
| XOKO | Bridge Street | ££ | Pastry lovers | Cinnamon buns |
| Perk | Church Street | ££ | Doughnut fans | Espresso martinis |
| Inverness Coffee Roasting Co | Chapel Street | ££ | Coffee enthusiasts | Single origin beans |
| Grain and Grind | Tomnahurich Street | ££ | Brunch | In-house roasting |
| Sùgh Ùr | Crown Area | ££ | Healthy eaters | Fresh Juice & Soul Bowls |
| The Cup and Cone | Telford Street | £ | Families | Ice cream |
| Leakey’s Bookshop | Church Street | £ | Book lovers | Unique atmosphere |
| The Mustard Seed | Fraser Street | £££ | Special occasions | River views |
| Café Artysans | Church Street | ££ | All-day dining | Dietary options |
| The Good Corner | Tomnahurich Street | £ | Locals | Traditional breakfast |
| Black Isle Bar | Church Street | ££ | Beer lovers | Craft beer |
| Ness Walk Café | Ness Walk | ££ | Outdoor seating | Castle views |
| The Kitchen | Huntly Street | £££ | Business meetings | Modern Scottish |
| Girvans | Stephens Brae | ££ | Families | Classic dining |
| Sam’s Indian Café | Church Street | £ | Something different | Authentic chai |
| The Storehouse | Foulis | £ | Fresh baking | Craft shopping |
| Costa del Sol | Castle Street | £ | Quick stops | Central location |
| Aspendos | Queensgate | ££ | Turkish coffee | Meze |
| River House | Greig Street | £££ | Fine dining | Panoramic views |
Planning Your Café Crawl
For visitors spending several days in the area, the variety on offer allows for very different experiences each morning. A suggested itinerary might begin with pastries at XOKO, progress to specialty coffee at the Inverness Coffee Roasting Company, and conclude with browsing and refreshments at Leakey’s.
The concentration of quality cafés along Church Street and the surrounding lanes makes exploration on foot both practical and pleasant.
Allow time for spontaneous discoveries, as the best café experiences often come unexpectedly.
Insider Tips for 2026:
- Dog Friendly: Many Inverness cafés are dog-friendly, notably The Cup and Cone and the outdoor seating areas at Ness Walk Café.
- Best Views: For the best photos, head to River House or The Mustard Seed terrace.
- Hidden Gems: Don’t miss the upstairs seating at The Milk Bar in the Victorian Market for a great view of the arcade.
- Vegan Choice: With Velocity closed, head to Sùgh Ùr in Crown or The Cup and Cone for the best plant-based options.
Summary: Quick Reference List
- The Milk Bar – Local produce showcase in Victorian Market
- XOKO Bakehouse – Outstanding pastries on Bridge Street
- Perk Coffee and Doughnuts – Day café, evening cocktail bar
- Inverness Coffee Roasting Company – Highland roaster and café
- Grain and Grind – Specialty coffee with in-house roasting
- Sùgh Ùr – Healthy brunch and fresh juices in Crown
- The Cup and Cone – Family-friendly with ice cream
- Leakey’s Bookshop Café – Coffee among 100,000 books
- The Mustard Seed – Riverside fine dining with daytime café
- Café Artysans – All-day dining with dietary options
- The Good Corner – Honest local café with great breakfasts
- Black Isle Bar – Craft beer and quality coffee combined
- Ness Walk Café – Riverside location near the castle
- The Kitchen Brasserie – Refined modern Scottish cooking
- Girvans Restaurant – Traditional family favourite
- Sam’s Indian Café – Authentic chai and street food
- The Storehouse – Fresh baking in Black Isle craft centre
- Costa del Sol Café – Convenient castle district location
- Aspendos – Turkish coffee and meze
- River House – Fine dining with panoramic river views
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best café in Inverness for specialty coffee?
The Inverness Coffee Roasting Company and Grain and Grind both roast their own beans, making them the top choices for serious coffee enthusiasts seeking single origin and specialty options.
Are there good vegan cafés in Inverness?
Sùgh Ùr in the Crown area is a fantastic choice for plant-based soul bowls and juices, whilst The Cup and Cone partners with Pure Vegan Bakery for excellent vegan sweet treats.
Which Inverness café has the best views?
River House and The Mustard Seed both offer stunning views across the River Ness, whilst Ness Walk Café provides excellent views towards Inverness Castle.
Where can I find the best pastries in Inverness?
XOKO Bakehouse on Bridge Street is widely considered to serve the finest pastries in the city, with their cinnamon buns achieving particular acclaim among locals and visitors.
Is Inverness good for coffee?
Inverness has developed an impressive independent café scene, with local roasters, artisan bakeries, and community-focused spaces making it one of Scotland’s most interesting coffee destinations outside the major cities.
Last updated: January 2026
