Tide & Thyme

Just beyond Tighnabruaich village, this surprisingly smart little restaurant trades in some of the finest ingredients from the Cowal Peninsula and beyond. Behind it is the wife-and-wife team of Marie and Lauren Burke, who ‘put such care and attention into everything they do’ – be it supporting local charities, staging themed nights or offering occasional chippy takeaways on Friday evenings. Beyond the blue-painted frontage, the interior fit-out of sage walls, deep-green banquettes and pendant lighting sets an appealing stage for a broad-ranging repertoire from self-taught Marie’s one-woman kitchen. Slow-braised venison bourguignon and panko-breaded (langoustine) scampi highlight the kitchen’s admirable use of local produce, although ideas are gleaned from far and wide. How about Korean gochujang-glazed calamari with seaweed salad or Sri Lankan vegetable curry? To conclude, an affogato featuring coffee from Argyll's own roastery around the corner is a good way to round things off. There’s no alcohol licence, so drinkers are advised to bring a bottle (£5 corkage pp). Note that bookings are taken over the phone or via Instagram.