Restaurant of the week: The Mustard Seed, Inverness

The Mustard Seed,
16 Fraser Street, Inverness, IV1 1DW — The Mustard Seed, 16 Fraser Street, Inverness, IV1 1DW

The Mustard Seed won the Travellers’ Choice Award for Best Everyday Dining in the UK and Channel Islands in 2019

Location

On the banks of the river at 16 Fraser Street, The Mustard Seed is in the heart of Inverness’ stunning city centre.

First impressions

The Mustard Seed used to be a church in a previous life, so diners can enjoy the beautiful architecture while they eat and drink. A roaring fire in the centre of the restaurant makes the space extra cosy.

Service

The servers were very lovely and attentive, and cool under pressure on what was evidently a busy night for the restaurant. Every table was full for the full duration of our visit.

The Mustard Seed specialises in hearty, straightforward dishes made from the finest Highland ingredients. The chefs are clearly innovators however, and are not afraid to give a classic dish an unconventional twist to keep things interesting. There is also a very good vegan menu available, and a strong selection of gluten-free alternatives.

Taste

The food was fantastic. We opted for venison served with braised Savoy cabbage and peas, crispy ham and blackcurrant jus and pan fried fillet of Scottish salmon, served alongside coronation potato salad, tenderstem broccoli, cured red onions and herb emulsion. The venison was deliciously earthy and smooth, and the salmon was perfectly cooked, embued with the right amount of smoky flavours.

Ambience

Sitting on the upper floor of The Mustard Seed, we were able to take in the full beauty of this church converted restaurant. Outside, snow swirled above the river Ness which added extra magic to our night.