The Anderson, Fortrose, has a prominant position on the High Street in the town and can’t be missed on the drive through. On our recent holiday, which included a stopover in The Black Isle to visit Baby Bomber’s family, we dined in The Whisky Room of The Anderson. The decor has been described in other reviews as ‘tired’ and ‘grubby’ , and it is not to everyone’s taste but I like the dark and slightly eclectic style, heavy on film references. A big plus for us is that it is a dog friendly restaurant and Rousay was welcomed with her own little sheepskin rug and message ‘Reserved for a very special dog’. Rousay, being contrary, decided to sit under a bench beside another table!
The food, described as American smokehouse and diner fare, is really good. I had the delicious Philly cheesesteak sandwich with fries while the Wing Commander chose the Wild boar and sauerkraut with chilli con carne Superdawg. We both really enjoyed and recommend them. On a previous visit last year they also had a deep south menu (if I remember correctly I had the gumbo) and this time there was a Belgian menu, presumably to complement the many Belgian beers stocked.
If there is one criticism it is the speed of service. On both visits service was slow. I may be being generous but I think this is to reflect the laid back atmosphere of the place. However, when dining with toddlers a speedier delivery of the food would have been appreciated. In fact, our Little Explosion’s food was the last to arrive at the table and some time after the adults had been served. Any diner would be advised to go prepared for long, relaxed conversations before food arrives (and have a snackeral so as not to be ravenous when waiting for service!) and if dining with children, make sure there are appropriate activities to keep them occupied. Otherwise, enjoy!
Have apeep at their website for further info
https://www.theanderson.co.uk/?fbclid=IwAR0k46CKuqtwqkTlRBjISMHfdVyLD76oSxBx2aX31Jbc-M4n0hxvcqEVykE
The following day we drove across Scotland to Skye where we stopped off at The Coffee Bothy for a quick lunch. This is another dog friendly eatery and the owners have their own wee pupper welcoming guests although he wears a sign advising against feeding him which is understandable I guess but I couldn’t help but feel sorry for the wee soul! He did manage to snaffle a few crumbs off the floor but don’t tell the owners! Shhh!
It was very busy but we were greeted as we came in the door and found the last two spaces with room for Rousay too. The Wing Commander chose the soup and sandwich option while I went straight to the Sandwich! Delicious fresh bread and plenty filling! On relfection I wish I had browsed the cake cabinet which was full of amazing fresh homebakes. I will have to return to try those out!
Not usually part of a review but I feel I have to mention the toilet in as polite a way as possible. It has a golden seat which puts it high on my list of top toilets but what I was really impressed with was the selection of sanitary products left for customers to use. Well done Coffee Bothy for that! Top of my toilet spots for that.
Check out their Facebook page to make your mouth water at all the goodies available.
https://www.facebook.com/thecoffeebothyskye/about
Significantly Different 