Welcome to Samphire
Samphire, located in the charming town of Inveraray, is a haven for seafood lovers. Specializing in fresh, expertly prepared dishes, the restaurant offers an impressive selection, all with accommodating gluten-free options. Diners rave about the exquisite quality of the fish, particularly the highly praised sole and massive mussels, celebrated for their exceptional flavors and textures. The ambiance is complemented by friendly, attentive service, ensuring a memorable experience. As noted by delighted patrons, a reservation is essential due to the restaurant's popularity. For anyone seeking authentic Scottish seafood, Samphire is an unmissable destination that leaves a lasting impression.
Samphire: Reviews & Ratings
Absolutely delicious food! The fish is so fresh and really well prepared. Everything was available as a GF option too. The staff were helpful with menu choices. The sole was the best I’ve had in some time. You definitely need to book, we watched maybe 8-10 couples being turned away as we ate.
Stopped in just to try the oysters. It has been a year and I'm still talking about them. They were the freshest tasting. I wish there was a way to get them shipped to me in the U.S. It is a lovely little town and great people.
Husband and I decided to visit this wee restaurant as our last evening meal of our stay in Inveraray. The food was utterly delicious. I had Cajun squid to start and the hubby had seafood chowder and we both had the muscles as main course. These were the BEST muscles we have ever had. They were huge and cooked exceptionally well. Dessert was equally as delicious. I would highly recommend this restaurant if you want to taste excellent Scottish seafood. Make sure to book as it is only open a few hours at lunch and at dinner. Overall it was an amazing meal to end my 40th celebration! Thank you. Photos added are of seafood chowder and Cajun Spiced Squid in the background. Muscles in a wine, garlic and herb sauce. My muscles were in a tomato and pancetta sauce (no photo). Pudding was a Whisky Creme Brulee. I had a Dark Chocolate Delice with Blood Orange Sorbet (not seen).
Service was wonderful, we came with a party of five and she accommodated us quickly! All of the food was perfectly cooked but it did take some time to get it to us- BUT it was so worth it! Just be aware if you are on a time crunch. The oyster was truly the best I’ve had in my entire life.
The food and service are first class. It's definitely worth a visit if you're in the area. Delicious food, excellent presentation and the service is very friendly
Saturday lunch and we trated ourselves to a platter. 115 sounds steep but it was perfectly cooking with good amounts of each item. A treat but oh what a treat. Staff were happy helpful and attentive
Lovely restaurant and amazing food. Haddock chowder and fish pie were fantastic! The staff are so friendly and welcoming, they really added to our great experience!
We did not have reservations but managed to get in because we got there early. We just had to be out by certain time because someone else had the table reserved and we were fine with that arrangement. I had the most delicious smoked haddock chowder with a side wonderful salad. My husband had the fish and chips and they were delicious. Service was wonderful and staff were very friendly. We would definitely go back. However, to be sure you get a table, call ahead and make reservations.
Location
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6 Arkland, Inveraray PA32 8UD, United Kingdom Hotline: +44 1499 302321
Welcome to Samphire, a hidden gem nestled in the exquisite town of Inveraray, Scotland. Located at 6 Arkland, Inveraray PA32 8UD, this enchanting seafood restaurant offers an unparalleled dining experience that celebrates the bounty of the sea.
At Samphire, the star of the menu is undoubtedly the fresh fish, impeccably prepared to highlight its natural flavors. Many patrons rave about the delightful dishes; Lizzy C praised the incredible freshness of the fish, noting that every item is available in gluten-free options—a thoughtful touch for those with dietary preferences. The cooking is exceptional, with the sole receiving special acclaim as “the best” in some time.
For oyster lovers, there is no place quite like Samphire. Customer Thad Lovell fondly recalls the “freshest tasting” oysters he's ever experienced, wishing he could have them shipped to the U.S. Such enthusiasm is a testament to the quality and freshness the kitchen consistently delivers.
But it’s not just oysters that shine at this establishment. Reviewers like Mellissa Woolley and Louisa S have highlighted the extensive menu, featuring mouth-watering starters like Cajun squid and rich seafood chowder, culminating in generous portions of mussels cooked to perfection. The mussels are described as “the BEST” ever had, prepared with exquisite attention to detail in decadent sauces that elevate the dining experience.
Besides the food, the ambiance and service at Samphire are equally welcoming. Guests have noted the friendly staff who are more than willing to help with menu choices, ensuring that every meal is a pleasurable event. Ewan Macfarlane succinctly sums up the experience as “first class,” emphasizing both the food and the service that feels personal and attentive.
To truly appreciate what Samphire offers, a reservation is essential. With limited hours for lunch and dinner, it's not uncommon to see diners turned away without a booking—a clear indication of the restaurant’s popularity. A meal at Samphire isn’t just dinner; it’s a memorable culinary journey where each dish tells a story through taste and presentation.
In summary, Samphire stands out as a fantastic destination for seafood enthusiasts. If you find yourself in Inveraray, be prepared for an exquisite experience that you won’t quickly forget. Make sure you savor every bite of their exceptional offerings—your taste buds will thank you!