A restaurant in the heart of the Highlands has officially been crowned the best in the country.
The Dipping Lugger, perched on the shores of Loch Broom in Ullapool, took home the top honour at the Scottish Excellence Awards.
The acclaimed dining spot was named Restaurant of the Year in a glittering black-tie ceremony at The Hilton Glasgow on Thursday 28th March.
The awards, held in partnership with The Caterer, celebrate the brightest and best in Scotland’s food, hospitality and tourism industries.
From pub excellence to sustainable practices and rising young chefs, twelve distinct categories were hotly contested by businesses from across the nation.
A handpicked panel of industry leaders including Scotland’s National Chef Gary Maclean and Roberta Hall-McCarron of Edinburgh’s Little Chartroom were tasked with selecting this year’s winners.
For The Dipping Lugger, it was a moment of well-earned recognition after three years of quiet excellence.
The restaurant, which opened in 2021, has quickly carved out a name for itself with its intimate setting, carefully curated tasting menus, and deeply rooted local ethos.
Co-owner Robert Hicks was among the team who made the trip to Glasgow to collect the trophy on the night.
He described the win as “overwhelming” and a reflection of the hard work and ambition that fuelled the restaurant from day one.
Hicks said the accolade marks a major milestone for the venue, adding that the team may be small, but they are more determined than ever to raise the bar.
He also paid tribute to the guests who have supported them since opening, promising to continue striving for excellence in every dining experience.
The win puts Ullapool firmly on the culinary map, drawing new attention to the high standards of food and service being delivered in the Highlands.
With its modern Scottish menus built around seasonal ingredients and local provenance, The Dipping Lugger is now officially recognised among the elite of Scottish hospitality.
For a village with fewer than 2,000 residents, it’s a proud moment that proves world-class dining isn’t reserved for city postcodes.
This win is not just a trophy, it’s a testament to dedication, passion and Highland hospitality done right.
