Located in the charming coastal village of Muchalls, The Stack Restaurant and Bar Menu at 14 Dunnyfell Rd offers a refined yet inviting dining experience that artfully balances contemporary Scottish cuisine with a deep respect for local ingredients. As a reviewer with a keen interest in seasonal menus and coastal gastronomy, I found The Stack to be an exceptional example of how a well-curated menu can elevate rural dining.
The menu showcases a thoughtful blend of seafood, meats, and vegetarian options, with clear attention to sourcing and flavour balance. The seafood, understandably a star given the restaurant’s proximity to the North Sea, is impeccably fresh. The hand-dived scallops and the locally caught haddock in a light tempura-style batter stood out, both for their delicate preparation and presentation. The beef options, particularly the slow-braised beef cheek, reflect a commitment to bold flavours and textural richness.
What sets The Stack apart from many other rural restaurants is its ability to craft dishes that are both elegant and comforting. The plating is stylish without being pretentious, and the portion sizes strike the right balance between generosity and finesse. For vegetarians, the roasted cauliflower steak served with a romesco sauce was a surprising highlight-showing the kitchen’s creativity beyond traditional fare.
Service is attentive and warm, contributing to a relaxed atmosphere that’s ideal for both special occasions and casual meals. The wine list, though compact, is well-matched to the food offerings and leans toward organic and biodynamic producers, adding an extra layer of thoughtfulness.
Compared to competitors in the Stonehaven area, The Stack offers a more polished, chef-driven experience without sacrificing approachability. Its ability to merge fine-dining precision with local familiarity makes it a standout on the Aberdeenshire culinary map.
