12 underrated restaurants in and around Aberdeen

Aberdeen's foodie scene has more to offer than TripAdvisor might suggest (Photo: Badabee / Wikimedia Commons)

We're all guilty of turning to TripAdvisor as soon as we start looking for somewhere new to eat out, but you won't find too many hidden gems in the top 10.

Here are 12 underrated Aberdeen restaurants that might not be tourist hotspots, but locals love them.

The Silver Darling

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Specialising in freshly caught seafood, The Silver Darling recently changed hands, but still offers an exceptional dining experience.

Enjoy stunning sea views from your table as you tuck into expertly prepared oysters, sea bass or Highland venison, and explore the bumper wine list.

Visit: North Pier House, 43 Pocra Quay, AB11 5DQ - thesilverdarling.co.uk

Rishi's

Although unassuming on the outside, Rishi's is a must-visit eatery for fans of authentic Southern Indian food.

The menu offers a mixture of both traditional and modern Indian cuisine, and diners regularly rave about the Dosa.

Visit: 210-212 George Street, AB25 1BS - rishis-aberdeen.co.uk

Nick's Pizza Bar and Cafe

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Open Wednesday to Sunday, this pizza joint is the brainchild of celebrity chef Nick Nairn, who effortlessly brings gourmet flavours and casual dining together under one roof.

With most pizzas coming in at around the £10 mark, you'll get a lot for your money here.

Unusual menu highlights include the Great Glen pizza with Scottish venison salami, and the Garlic Mushroom with homemade pesto.

Visit: 15 Back Wynd, AB10 1JN - facebook.com/NickNairnPizzaBar

Fusion Bar and Bistro

With a set menu for every budget, Fusion Bar and Bistro serve up refined European-inspired food, with a handy wine pairing for every dish.

Indulge in the five course tasting menu for £45 per person, or opt for two courses at £29.95.

Visit: 10 North Silver Street, AB10 1RL - fusionbarbistro.com

Angus & Ale

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In the running for Aberdeen's best burger, Angus & Ale focus on grilling up juicy beef patties, but they also have plenty of chicken and veggie options on offer.

Pair your chosen burger with fries, onion rings or even chicken wings, and wash it all down with a creamy milkshake or a cold craft beer.

Visit: 55 Schoolhill, AB10 1JT - angusale.com

Eat on the Green

Further afield, in Ellon, Eat on the Green is an upmarket eatery with chef proprietor Craig Wilson at the helm.

Diners can look forward to a beautifully presented and varied menu that features seasonal and local produce, such as Aberdeenshire beef and vegetables grown and picked in the restaurant's own garden.

Mid-week lunch prices start at £24.95 for two courses, allowing a special treat on a reasonable budget.

Visit: Udny Green, Ellon, AB41 7RS - eatonthegreen.co.uk

Moon Fish Cafe

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Contemporary and stylish, Moon Fish Cafe serves a range of small and large plates from their seafood-heavy menu.

The offerings are ever-changing, but expect everything from in-house smoked salmon to butternut squash falafel, all at reasonable prices.

Choose any small and large plate for £15.50, and make sure to leave room for dessert.

Visit: 9 Correction Wynd, AB10 1HP - moonfishcafe.co.uk

Native

As you can probably guess from the name, Native strive to incorporate as much of Aberdeen's local produce into their dishes as possible.

Their steaks come highly recommended, but the menu offers everything from delicate smoked salmon and caviar to hearty ham hock with smoked paprika crackling.

Visit: 31 St Andrew Street, AB25 1J - nativeaberdeen.com

No 1 Bar and Grill

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Nestled in the heart of the West End, this bustling bistro offers a simple and seasonal food menu which changes with the seasons.

Pinning down their exact style of cuisine is difficult, but there are strong Scottish influences, with staples like fish and chips and chicken Balmoral.

Visit: 1 Queen's Terrace, AB10 1XL - number1restaurant.co.uk

Mamma Pizza

Basic but cosy, Mamma Pizza are serving up classically Italian pizza and pasta in the heart of Aberdeen's city centre.

Their flour is imported from Italy, and the dough is risen for at least 48 hours before cooking to ensure the best possible crust.

When it comes to pizza toppings, all of the old favourites are available, with vegetarian and even vegan options available.

Visit: 11-13 Belmont Street, AB10 1JR - mammapizza.co.uk

Chaophraya

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With eight locations across the UK, Chaophraya has become well known for their delicious Thai cuisine and refreshing cocktails.

Soak up the atmosphere of the stylish and bustling restaurant as you tuck into everything from tom yum soup and crispy pork belly to dumplings and chicken pad thai.

Visit: 1 Union Terrace, AB10 1NJ - chaophraya.co.uk/aberdeen

The Marcliffe

Slightly off the beaten track, The Marcliffe Hotel's restaurant is worth visiting for the attentive service alone, but their great food is an added bonus.

Start with scallops or mushroom risotto, and move on to a shared chateaubriand or monkfish and crispy langoustines.

There are no mobile phones allowed at the table here, so bring your conversation A game.

Visit: North Deeside Road, Pitfodels, AB15 9YA - marcliffe.com/cuisine.htm