Downright Gabbler

A family team at Downright Gabbler bring you an event as much as a meal, with themed set-menus matched by tales from your host exploring history and culture.

A selection of different menus are available on different days (booking needed) and all can be vegan. I’ve tried two: the Tipsy Afternoon Tea and the Ale and Hearty dinner.

My afternoon tea was lovely, with gin cocktails, coffees and a procession of four courses of mini savouries, baking and sweets. The scones with local jam and cream were delicious, though I was then defeated by the incredibly creamy final trio of desserts.

Ale and Hearty includes four courses of wholesome Scottish dishes and beer sampling. The beetroot crostini was my highlight, I should have stolen the recipe.

You can see the enthusiasm and care they’ve put into creating the experience, from sourcing local produce to researching the stories they share during the meals. I love the trouble they’ve taken with their dainty table settings – cut glass butter dishes, more antique silver spoons than I knew what to do with and my teacup saucer had its own saucer!

They don’t have regular opening hours where you can pop in and eat so check their website for details of upcoming events. Visitors to the area might also want to take advantage of Downright Gabbler’s accommodation.