Fresh Faces 2024
The food and drink scene in the valley rarely stands still. Menus adapt to the changing seasons, product lines grow and develop – and new faces appear to reenergise the foodie offer for both locals and visitors. Here we celebrate some of the new cafes and restaurants we’ve welcomed to the Tweed Valley in 2024.
Wee Crook Cafe, Tweedsmuir
We were thrilled to see one of Scotland’s oldest institutions open its doors again in 2024. The historic Wee Crook Inn at Tweedsmuir closed in 2006 after more than 400 years of continuous operation, but the vibrant community fought hard to breathe new life into a wing of the original building. The Wee Crook Café is going from strength to strength, serving up delicious cakes, rolls, teas and coffees to visiting walkers, cyclists and locals. Watch this space, there’s more to come for this wonderful site …
The Milkman, Peebles
A go-to for fine coffee, people watching and cool Instagram moments, the latest café to take up residence on Peebles High Street is the perfect winter retreat: it’s sophisticated, authentic … and cosy. Named after owner Mark’s great grandfather – the last horse-drawn milkman in Huntly, Aberdeenshire – this speciality coffee shop prides itself on selecting only the best grinds from local and/or sustainable roasteries. The pastries and cakes are a treat and dogs are welcomed with open arms too.
The Cross Keys, Peebles
Given it dates back to 1693, The Cross Keys isn’t quite a new face around town. But this characterful pub in Peebles’ Northgate has seen a change in management in 2024. Now locally owned, The Keys serves good food cooked to order from 8am to 8.30pm throughout the season (Wed-Sun) with full Scottish brekkies, burgers and pasta keeping active visitors and locals fuelled for their adventures. Come and eat, drink, play pool, watch sport and be merry!
Peebles Golf Club
Another eatery that has seen a changing of the guard this year is the restaurant at Peebles Golf Club. David Ross brings a wealth of experience to the clubhouse kitchen, with classics including haggis bon bons, homemade steak pie and fish and chips keeping golfers (and non-golfers) warm and well-fed this winter. The views across the course and over the town are enviable – and accessible ramps and facilities ensures that everyone gets the opportunity to enjoy them.
Asado Gaucho, Peebles
The rich flavours of the Pampas are front and centre at this fiery Argentinian steakhouse. Nestled away at the north end of Peebles High Street, Asado Gaucho embraces the spirit of south American cuisine, with quality sirloins, fillets, rib eyes and rumps at the heart of its meaty feast. And there are tasty options too for those not stuck on the idea of steak – the Gambas a la Parilla (king prawns) and grilled vegetables are already firm favourites. Top-notch Argentinian malbecs come as standard.
Out Out Gastropub, Innerleithen
A lively addition to Innerleithen’s dining scene, Out Out offers a slice of urban dining for those fresh off the hills – or straight out of bed. Serving hearty breakfasts and brunches (Thurs-Sun) and gastro delights every evening, there’s something on the menu for every mood in this vibrant, high-street hang out. Their dine in (or take out) pizzas have been a huge hit – and their cocktail menu is especially impressive too. Drop by for a pre-dinner tipple and see where the night takes you.
Further info
These are just a handful of the excellent eateries, pubs and inns scattered across the Tweed Valley. Check out our Food & Drink pages to discover many, many more!