Stein Inn

I'm on a mission to find fish and chips around the UK that beat Magpie's in Witby, and this place has done it again. The batter was light and crisp, and the fish was cooked just right. The chips were up to classic Bob standard, while the rich peas and tarta sauce went well with everything. The mussels were excellent too, and the haggis and black pudding bombom was moist and gooey. I was too full for pudding, but I'm sure that would have been excellent as well.

The fish and chips were spot on, probably the best we had in Scotland, and at that price you'd hope so. The seafood itself was well cooked in the chowder, but the soup was bland, watery and needed seasoning. It came with plain bread, which I'd have liked charred for the price. The scallops were fresh but small, with the abductor muscle still attached, leaving part of them tough. You can spit that bit out, but I don't think that's acceptable at this price. The cider and bacon mussels were the biggest letdown. The sauce was watery, overly sweet and underseasoned, more like soup than a reduction, and didn't cling to the shells. I sent the first pot back because the mussels were rubbery and overcooked. They offered to remake it, but the second pot had the same problems, so we ate only a couple and left the rest. We spent over 150 pounds for two people and came away disappointed. The food and service don't justify the price, even before the sneaky surcharge on the bill. Service was slow and inattentive, and we had to go to the bar ourselves to order drinks because the waiter stayed on his stool. That charge felt especially audacious given the poor service and already inflated prices. We felt robbed and wouldn't recommend the restaurant.

With no hotel available, we were suddenly stranded on the Isle of Skye after Storm Amy stopped us making our evening ferry to Raasay. The Stein Inn came to our rescue. It was already 10 PM, but they prepared a room at the last minute without hesitation and welcomed us so warmly. They even offered us food that late, which turned the day around. The room was perfect, and the hotel right by the sea is beautifully located. The whole place has been decorated with care and attention to detail, the food was excellent, and every staff member helped us feel comfortable. A small, authentic Scottish hotel with a heart and an unforgettable atmosphere.

It's a bit of a trek to get there, but the view makes it well worth it. The food was amazing and everyone on staff was friendly and informative. The rooms are cosy, with shampoo, conditioner and body wash provided in case you forgot yours. Breakfast is served in the morning between 8-9.