Warming Plates and Local Delights: Our Winter Menus at No.1 Bistro

As winter settles across the Highlands, Wick takes on a gentler pace. Days are shorter, the air crisper, and the town begins to glow with the warm lights of homes and cafés. At No.1 Bistro, the change in season inspires a shift in the kitchen – towards deeper flavours, slower cooking, and comforting plates that bring people together.

Winter dining at the Bistro isn’t just about eating; it’s about taking time to savour the things that make the season special. Local produce, warm spices, freshly baked breads, and comforting classics all come together to create meals that feel both familiar and uplifting.

Person holding a plate of gourmet salad with seared tuna. The image captures the art of fine dining and beautifully presented dish.

A Celebration of Local Winter Flavours

Caithness is rich in producers who work closely with the land and sea, and winter highlights the fruits of their labour. Our winter menus celebrate these ingredients, allowing their natural flavours to shine through.

Expect dishes built on:

  • Locally sourced meats perfect for a variety of dishes.
  • Freshly landed fish from Highland harbours
  • Root vegetables harvested late in the season
  • Herbs, stocks, and sauces simmered patiently

These aren’t just meals, they’re a warm embrace from the Highlands’ winter larder.

Winter Lunches: Light, Local, and Comforting

Winter lunches at No.1 Bistro provide a restful pause in the middle of your day. Whether you’re exploring Wick’s harbour, wrapping up a coastal walk, or simply seeking a moment of warmth, our lunch menu offers a comforting selection of dishes designed to satisfy without weighing you down.

You might find hearty soups crafted from seasonal vegetables, flaky pastries, fresh fish dishes, or winter warmers that leave you perfectly content and ready for an afternoon of exploring.

The Bistro’s relaxed atmosphere makes it an ideal place to unwind as winter light filters through the windows and the town moves at its unhurried pace.

The No. 1 Bistro at Mackays Hotel with tables, chairs and a menu

Winter Dinners: Slow-Cooked Comfort and Highland Classics

As evening falls and Wick glows under its winter lights, the Bistro transforms into a welcoming haven. The aromas of slow-cooked dishes rise from the kitchen, the warmth of the room contrasts with the chill outside, and conversations flow easily around the tables.

Our winter dinner offerings may include tender Caithness beef braised gently for hours, fresh seafood complemented by rich buttery sauces, and winter vegetables that bring depth and comfort to every plate. Each dish is crafted with care, showcasing the best of local flavours.

Couple your meal with a glass of wine or a Highland single-malt whisky, and you have an evening that captures the spirit of Scottish winter at its finest.

A chef serving up a plate of delicious food

Winter Afternoon Tea: A Seasonal Treat

For those who prefer a lighter winter indulgence, our afternoon tea is a delightful way to spend a few peaceful hours. Enjoy towers of delicate sandwiches, freshly baked scones served warm, and cakes that celebrate the flavours of the season.

It’s a cosy, unhurried experience – perfect for catching up with friends, warming up between adventures, or simply treating yourself on a winter afternoon.

Selection of cakes for Afternoon Tea at Mackays Hotel

Dine at No.1 Bistro This Winter

Whether you’re staying with us or visiting Wick for the day, No.1 Bistro invites you to enjoy the warmth and comfort of Highland winter dining. With flavours inspired by the land, the sea, and the season, this is food designed to restore, nourish, and delight.

Join us this winter and discover the taste of Caithness at its most comforting.

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