Aberdeen may not have the range of fine dining opportunities of the Scottish capital, but there are more than enough excellent eateries to keep visitors happy for days on end.
Unsurprisingly, it's not difficult to get an excellent steak in the home of Aberdeen Angus Beef - a few of our favourites are Vovem Meat & Liquor (a contemporary restaurant and bar using Argentinian grilling techniques), the upmarket IX Restaurant (2 AA rosettes) at the Chester Hotel and Maggie's Grill (Southern-style steakhouse whose motto is “field to fork and made with soul”).
Being right on the North Sea, Aberdeen is also all about the seafood. The Silver Darling is a real treat - stylish and situated right on the water with incredible views of Aberdeen harbour. Moonfish Cafe serves modern British dishes in the heart of the old town and boasts an impressive range of gins.Bistro Verde is small, family-run seafood specialist based on The Green in the merchant quarter.
There are plenty of other dining options to choose from - we also love Cafe Boheme (French fine dining) and Cafe 52 (reasonably-priced, modern and seasonal dishes). For those with dietary requirements, the delightful Foodstory specialises in vegan dishes and has options for those with a range of allergies and intolerances.
A book-lover's breakfast can be found at Books & Beans - lovely food surrounded by colourful bookshelves full to bursting, what's not to love?
There are plenty of options for those needing a quick pit-stop during a busy day exploring the city, as well. Contour does wonderful sandwiches, coffee and cake, and Mackie's 19.2 is THE place for locally-produced ice-cream (19.2 miles away, to be precise)!
Founded just down the road in Fraserburgh, Brewdog opened its first bar in Aberdeen in 2009. It now has two locations - Castlegate and Union Square - where you can sample their latest inventions. Other excellent places for beer are Six degrees North (Belgian-style microbrewery), and CASC (specialising in craft beer, Scotch and cigars).
For a quirky pub experience, check out gothic vampire-themed Slains Castle, set in an old church in the centre of the city.
If you're in search of cocktails, look no further than the subterranean tavern, the Tippling House. For live music, head to Ninety Nine Bar & Kitchen.
Foodies should also check out Aberdeen's street food market.