Award-winning north-west coast eatery Crofter’s Kitchen has been granted planning permission to expand its outdoor operation with a new shipping-container restaurant by Scourie Beach.
Founded by Grant and Heather Mercer, Crofter’s Kitchen has built a reputation as a must-visit food stop on the North Coast 500 tourist route, combining high-quality ‘farm-to-fork and dock-to-dish’ cooking with what is described as a relaxed, community-led atmosphere.
(Pic: Crofter’s Kitchen Facebook)
After almost a year working with Highland Council through the planning process, the new approval allows the business to install a fully fitted restaurant container, complete with a professional kitchen, toilet facilities and heated indoor seating for up to 25 people.
The development will enable Crofter’s Kitchen to open all year round for the first time, transforming what has so far been a seasonal summer business into a permanent hospitality destination – and a more secure, year-round employer for Scourie, which site in a remote coastal spot some 40 miles north of Ullapool.
Head chef and co-owner Grant Mercer said: “We’re incredibly grateful to Highland Council for working constructively with us throughout the process and for recognising the value this project brings to the local area.
“This gives us the opportunity to create a warm, welcoming space for our community beyond the summer months, while continuing to showcase the incredible produce we’re lucky enough to have right on our doorstep.”
The new container restaurant will sit alongside the existing outdoor setup, meaning guests can continue to enjoy Crofter’s Kitchen’s ever-changing summer menu, while also looking forward to a new offering during the quieter months.
Plans for the new kitchen include hearty North-West Highland-style Sunday roasts, an autumn seasonal menu, chef and whisky distillery collaborations, and winter events such as yoga and brunch gatherings — all in a heated space overlooking the beach.
Menus will continue to focus on local sourcing, including pork from neighbouring crofts and vegetables grown on site, continuing Crofter’s Kitchen’s commitment to sustainability and its local supply chain.
The team plans to begin work on the container conversion in the coming months, with the permanent restaurant’s opening planned for summer 2026.
