OpenStar Wok
1 Burns Square, Greenock PA16 0NT, United Kingdom
Welcome to The Red Herring Seafood Restaurant
The Red Herring Seafood Restaurant stands out in Tarbert for its commitment to freshness and quality. It sources seafood directly from local fishermen, ensuring every dish celebrates the flavors of the sea. The menu features everything from traditional Fish & Chips to innovative creations that dazzle the palate. Guests can relax in a casual atmosphere with options for dine-in, delivery, and takeaway. Perfect for lunch or dinner, this eatery is well-loved by both locals and visitors alike. With a dedicated staff, delectable desserts, and a varied drink selection, The Red Herring promises a memorable dining experience.
Welcome to The Red Herring Seafood Restaurant, where the essence of the sea comes alive! Nestled in the heart of Tarbert, we take pride in serving the freshest catches sourced daily from local fishermen. Our diverse menu features beloved classics like Fish & Chips alongside innovative seafood creations that truly celebrate coastal flavors. Enjoy a casual dining experience with options for lunch, dinner, or dessert, complemented by a selection of fine wines, craft beers, and great coffee. Whether you're dining solo or with a group, we're here to make your meal memorable. Join us today for a taste of the sea!Services, Amenities and More
Service options
Delivery
Takeaway
Dine-in
Highlights
Great coffee
Great dessert
Popular for
Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Offerings
Alcohol
Beer
Coffee
Quick bite
Spirits
Wine
Dining options
Lunch
Dinner
Dessert
Photo Gallery
View Menu Photos
Reviews Overview
Most Liked
The freshest seafood sourced directly from local fishermen is a highlight, delivering quality that sets The Red Herring apart. The Seafood Linguine receives rave reviews for its homemade lobster sauce and perfectly cooked scallops, a must-try for seafood lovers.
The friendly and welcoming service ensures that each customer feels valued, making returning visits a pleasure.
Popular dishes like Fish & Chips and creamy oysters have garnered a loyal following, with many declaring it the best seafood they’ve tasted. The casual setting complements the delicious food, creating a laid-back environment ideal for conversations over meals.
Most Disliked
Occasionally, diners report longer wait times during peak hours. The dinner period, particularly on Wednesdays and weekends, can see a surge in customers, leading to a packed house that may not suit everyone’s preference. While experiencing the buzz of a busy restaurant can be exciting, some prefer a quieter dining experience.
Some comments have surfaced regarding inconsistent preparation of dishes. However, these seem to be rare among positive reviews that consistently highlight quality.
The limited menu might not cater to those seeking variety beyond seafood, as the focus remains squarely on fresh catches and classic seafood dishes.
User Reviews
AE
Anthony E.
Starting with Oysters, these were creamy on the palette which denotes quality and followed with the Seafood Linguine which with an excellent homemade Lobster sauce and fresh Scallops (to name but one ingredient) which I watched being brought ashore specifically for the Red Herring, really made my night. As a chef I cannot recommend this place highly enough. When in Tarbert, book your reservation.
AT
Alison T.
Always visit this lovely seafood restaurant when we visit Tarbert. The staff are always so welcoming and the food and service never disappoint. We had the goats cheese and beetroot salad and calamari as a starter and the mussels as our main. Everything was so tasty and I would definitely recommend a visit if you're in the area
PB
Petru B.
I've traveled to so many countries this year but I can truly say that Red Herring in Tarbert is The Best! The seafood is cooked to absolute perfection and you can taste that the meals are prepared with love. The service is just as impressive:professional yet warm and welcoming making you feel like part of the family. An absolute must visit!!!! It's hard to believe when I see a few silly comments here saying the food isnt cooked properly, or the service isnt good. Having been bere myself with my wife 3 times in a week I can confidently say that's not True. The food is outstanding, The service excellent and clearly some competitors must be jealous of how perfect this place really is!!!
AT
A T.
Very good seafood restaurant. Only took a photo of scallops and black pudding started as I then dived straight into the langos. Recommended. Will need to revisit to try out the seafood platter, which looked fantastic. Seemed quite a busy wee place on a midweek July evening so booking recommended I think.
Sa
Saira
My first day in Tarbert and was recommended to eat here by all the locals and read awesome reviews. I ordered the seafood linguine it was delicious 😋 value for money the freshest seafood well done 👏 Chef 👨🍳 a beautiful dinner thank you
AS
Anthony S.
What a discovery we had today ... one of the best seafood platters money can buy on the West Coast. For 100 pounds you get a real fine seafood platter without having to order in advance. We will certainly come back !
CM
Craig M.
Excellent fresh seafood and great staff in this busy gem. Superb cullen skink, langoustine straight from harbour and triple cooked chips. Loved it. Booking essential!
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Location & Hours
Opening Hours
MondayOpen
TuesdayOpen
WednesdayOpen
ThursdayOpen
FridayOpen
SaturdayOpen
SundayOpen
Location
Frequently Asked Questions
The Red Herring Seafood Restaurant specializes in seafood, featuring a menu that ranges from traditional favorites like Fish & Chips to innovative dishes highlighting the unique flavors of the sea.
Reservations are accepted at The Red Herring. It's a good idea to book ahead, especially during peak times or weekends.
Yes, there is free street parking and a free parking lot available for guests.
Popular dishes include Oysters, Seafood Linguine, and the rich Cullen Skink. Don't miss out on their homemade desserts like Tender Rhubarb Crumble and Sticky Date Pudding.
Yes, The Red Herring provides delivery and takeaway services, making it convenient to enjoy their fresh seafood at home.
Expect a casual vibe at The Red Herring. It's perfect for solo dining or gatherings with groups and tourists alike.
Why visit The Red Herring Seafood Restaurant
Visiting The Red Herring is an experience that seafood aficionados cannot miss. I recommend booking ahead, especially for the lively dinner crowd, to guarantee a seat. The restaurant offers a perfect spot for solo dining or gatherings with friends. Don’t forget to ask for wine pairing suggestions; their selections notably enhance the seafood's flavors.
The atmosphere strikes a wonderful balance between casual and charming, making it perfect for a laid-back meal. Plus, the option for takeaway allows diners to enjoy quality seafood at home, a great choice after a long day. Lastly, the community spirit here creates an inviting environment—it's more than just a meal; it’s part of the Tarbert experience.
