Top 6 Places to Eat in Dundee

Stunning aerial view capturing Dundee cityscape and iconic Tay Bridge in Scotland.
Valentine Kulikov, Pexels

Dundee's culinary scene offers a diverse range of dining experiences, blending traditional Scottish fare with vibrant international flavours, catering to various tastes from casual diners to those seeking a sophisticated meal.

1. The Tayberry

Cuisine: Modern Scottish with Global Influences

Located in Tay Square, The Tayberry offers a refined fine dining experience with a warm, sleek interior featuring plum-coloured walls and elegant lighting. Chef-owner Adam Newth, an award-winning chef, crafts intricately presented dishes that celebrate Scottish produce alongside global flavours. Diners can expect a memorable culinary journey with options such as Scottish confit lamb belly and Chateaubriand.

Price: Main courses typically £20-£30+, tasting menus available

Getting There: The restaurant is situated in Dundee city centre on Tay Square, making it easily accessible by walking from most central locations.

2. Castlehill Restaurant

Cuisine: Sophisticated Scottish Cuisine

Castlehill provides an elegant dining room where sophisticated Scottish cuisine is served, focusing on high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. The menu changes seasonally, offering modern dishes such as Scrabster hake with roasted garlic purée. The atmosphere is comfortable and relaxed, yet maintains the standards expected of fine dining.

Price: Tasting menus around £50-£70 per person; a 6-course vegetarian menu is £50.

Getting There: Found on Exchange Street in the city centre, Castlehill Restaurant is within easy walking distance from major points of interest.

3. Gidi Grill

Cuisine: African & Caribbean Grill

Positioned in City Square, Gidi Grill immerses diners in a vibrant atmosphere with a unique fusion of West African and Caribbean flavours. The restaurant's signature dishes include jerk chicken, jollof rice, and various homestyle steaks, all marinated in distinctive house spices and grilled over charcoal. The service is often highlighted as excellent, and the setting offers a lively and unique dining experience.

Price: Main courses £17.95-£27.95; lunch main courses from £9.50.

Getting There: Located at 6-7 City Square, it is a central spot easily reachable via bus routes like 20, 42, 57, 59, 5A, or a short walk from the train station.

4. Don Michele

Cuisine: Authentic Italian

Don Michele, a cherished family-run Italian restaurant, has recently moved to Exchange Street, offering a warm and welcoming atmosphere. It serves classic Italian fare, including popular pasta and pizza dishes. Patrons particularly enjoy the Strozzapreti Don Michele (pasta with gorgonzola, chicken, and leek) and the Salsiccia pizza with spicy sausage. The bruschetta starters are notably generous and flavourful.

Price: Pizzas £8.95-£11.95; main courses £14.95-£19.95; lunch specials from £8.95.

Getting There: Situated on Exchange Street in the city centre, Don Michele is conveniently located for those exploring Dundee on foot.

5. The Bach

Cuisine: Cafe, Brunch, New Zealand Inspired

The Bach provides a relaxed, dog-friendly cafe environment with a metropolitan buzz, located conveniently near the McManus Art Gallery and Museum. This spot is perfect for brunch or a casual lunch, offering New Zealand-inspired dishes like mince on toast and a hearty 'Son Of The Bach' breakfast. They are also highly regarded for their excellent coffee and homemade cakes.

Price: Brunch/lunch items £7-£13; coffee around £2.50.

Getting There: The Bach is centrally located near the McManus Art Gallery and Museum, making it easily walkable from many city centre attractions.

6. Jahangir Tandoori

Cuisine: Indian

Jahangir Tandoori on Session Street offers a wide selection of traditional Indian cuisine, from rich curries and flavourful biryanis to various tandoori specialities. The restaurant is known for its generous portions and reasonable prices, making it a popular choice for students and those seeking a satisfying Indian meal. They also feature student deals and pre-theatre menus.

Price: Curries £12.95-£16.95; tandoori main dishes £10.95-£24.95; student meal deal £12.95.

Getting There: Located on Session Street, Jahangir Tandoori is a short walk from Dundee city centre.