The Royal Oak Hotel

We were staying in Cullen for a couple of days at a family friend's place and popped into this lovely pub and restaurant by the seafront. We had a reservation elsewhere, so only stopped for drinks, but the staff were lovely and accommodating. Our three year old started explaining sign language to them, and they played along and kept him amused while we relaxed. The locals say the food is great, so next time we’ll come to eat and enjoy the easygoing atmosphere. As we left, the staff came over to say goodbye, a really nice touch. Definitely worth a visit.

After a lovely walk on a cold evening, we stopped in for a couple of pints. That turned into a fantastic bowl of Cullen skink and a prawn cocktail. The staff were busy but looked after us like locals, and the food was absolutely fantastic. Freddie, the young fella working there, might be the hardest working and most professional young person I’ve seen in a long time. A fantastic experience all around.

Gary and Brenda gave very good service, with the enthusiasm and care of locals. The restaurant had a nice atmosphere in the bar too, and lots of locals were eating there. The food was well above the usual tourist hotel standard for both choice and quality, and the presentation was carefully done. The Cullen skink, which you have to try in its place of origin, was smoky but not too salty. I also enjoyed the three scallops with celeriac and black pudding, though I wondered if it needed one more scallop. I stayed in an excellent MH park up.

We had dinner at The Royal Oak Hotel last night and will definitely return. It’s beautifully decorated, with a warm, welcoming feel, and the friendly, chatty staff were just what we like. Everything was made fresh to order and tasted delicious. My partner had venison haunch with roasted vegetables and a glossy, deep jus. I chose fish and chips: the haddock was massive, fresh and tasty, flaked beautifully, and the batter stayed crisp right to the end. Can’t recommend it enough.