Hi,

We are gathering with family in March outside of Doune, between Stirling and Callander in central Scotland. DH and I would like to host a nice dinner mid week for 14 or so people, and would love recommendations for something nice that won't break the bank. Guide books recommend restaurants at Roman Camp, Cromlix House and Monachyle Mhor in the area, but all are appox GBP 45 per person (and that is without drinks - and I can assure you drinks will be had).

Can anyone recommend some nice restaurants in the area where we might find nice dining at a more reasonable price. Those mentioned above might be really high end. We are looking for non-pub, good food, good service, warm atmosphere (with non laminate table cloths).

Any advice is much appreciated!

Cheers
Ellie

Check out this one.

I haven't personally eaten there but friends have and they really enjoyed it. On the main street in Callander . . .

http://www.callandermeadows.co.uk/

Those three are all quite high end. We had lunch in the Meadows in Callander last New Year and it was fine.

Have a look at the bar menu in the Lake Hotel at Port of Menteith.

Slightly riskier is what used to be the Tormaukin Inn in Glendeveon. I say riskier because it used to be great, then it became awful, and it has recently been taken over again, by people who really know what they're doing.

I have seen two good reviews.

I love the setting of the Lake Hotel - haven't eaten there for ages though. The restaurant is upscale but according to the website they do a 2 course plus starter for £28.50. Its Port Bar would be a little cheaper, but more casual. It was converted from what used to be the resident's lounge and shares the same lake views. But unless you'll be there at the end of the month after the time change, it will be dark, so the view probably isn't that important.

And don't think the Port is pubby- it's not at all.

Thanks everyone for some great suggestions. These appear much more reasonable than the restaurants I was looking at earlier!

Cheers

You might consider the Sheriffmuir Inn, it is a little bit out of town, towards Doune, and was highly recommended by our hotel in Stirling as well as by a friend who lives in the area, and who took us there for lunch. The location was lovely, the food excellent and the prices very reasonable. http://www.rampantscotland.com/beste...heriffmuir.htm

There is another restaurant in the Stirling area that I just love and visit almost every time I am in Scotland. The Hollybank in Bannockburn, only a few blocks from the Bannockburn Heritage Center,
58 Glasgow Road
Tel: 01786 812311
The food is great, and the desserts to die for.