Don Leon’s Highlands is renowned for delivering an exceptional dining experience that blends traditional flavors with modern culinary creativity. Nestled in the scenic highlands, the restaurant offers a diverse menu designed to satisfy both local residents and visitors craving authentic tastes with a contemporary twist.
The menu is carefully curated to showcase fresh, locally sourced ingredients, highlighting the richness and variety of the region’s produce. Whether you are seeking a hearty meal to warm your soul or a light bite to accompany scenic views, Don Leon’s Highlands has something special to offer.
Starters & Appetizers
Starting your meal at Don Leon’s Highlands means indulging in a variety of flavors that awaken the palate. Each appetizer is crafted to provide a perfect balance between freshness and richness, setting an inviting tone for the courses to come.
| Dish | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Highland Smoked Salmon | Delicately smoked salmon, served with capers, red onions, and a lemon dill sauce. | $14.95 |
| Wild Mushroom Soup | A creamy blend of wild mushrooms harvested locally, garnished with truffle oil and fresh herbs. | $8.50 |
| Rustic Highland Bruschetta | Toasted artisan bread topped with vine-ripened tomatoes, roasted garlic, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. | $9.25 |
| Shepherd’s Pie Bites | Miniature versions of the classic shepherd’s pie, with tender lamb and creamy mashed potatoes. | $11.00 |
| Highland Cheese Platter | A selection of local cheeses, served with crackers, honey, and seasonal fruit. | $16.50 |
“The appetizers at Don Leon’s Highlands are a perfect introduction to the meal – robust, flavorful, and beautifully presented.” – Food & Travel Magazine
Main Courses
The main courses at Don Leon’s Highlands emphasize hearty, satisfying dishes that celebrate traditional recipes with fresh, innovative touches. Using time-tested techniques and the highest quality ingredients, each dish is a masterpiece that delights the senses.
| Dish | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Highland Game Stew | A robust stew featuring tender venison, root vegetables, and a rich red wine reduction. | $24.95 |
| Grilled Loch Trout | Fresh trout from local lochs, grilled and served with lemon butter sauce and seasonal greens. | $22.00 |
| Herb-Crusted Highland Lamb | Succulent lamb rack coated with fresh herbs, served with minted peas and roasted potatoes. | $28.50 |
| Vegetarian Haggis | A creative vegetarian take on the classic haggis, made with lentils, oats, and spices, accompanied by neeps and tatties. | $19.95 |
| Seafood Chowder | A creamy chowder brimming with fresh shellfish, scallops, and smoked haddock, served with crusty bread. | $21.00 |
Each main course is thoughtfully paired with seasonal sides and sauces designed to complement and enhance the natural flavors of the primary ingredients.
Salads & Light Bites
For those seeking lighter fare, Don Leon’s Highlands offers a variety of fresh salads and light bites. These dishes combine crisp textures with vibrant flavors, perfect for a midday meal or a refreshing complement to other dishes.
| Dish | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Highland Beetroot Salad | Roasted beetroot with goat cheese, candied walnuts, and a honey mustard dressing. | $12.50 |
| Warm Kale & Quinoa Salad | A nutrient-packed salad with sautéed kale, quinoa, cranberries, and toasted almonds. | $13.75 |
| Smoked Chicken Caesar | Traditional Caesar salad with smoked chicken breast, Parmesan, and homemade croutons. | $15.00 |
| Roasted Vegetable Tart | Flaky pastry filled with seasonal vegetables, goat cheese, and herbs. | $14.00 |
“The salads at Don Leon’s are fresh and inventive – a perfect balance of health and indulgence.” – Highland Dining Review
Sides
Sides at Don Leon’s Highlands are designed to complement any main dish. From traditional accompaniments to creative vegetable medleys, these options add layers of texture and flavor to every meal.
| Side | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Roasted Root Vegetables | A medley of carrots, parsnips, and turnips roasted with herbs and garlic. | $6.50 |
| Colcannon Mash | Creamy mashed potatoes blended with cabbage and scallions. | $5.95 |
| Honey-Glazed Carrots | Carrots cooked to perfection with a light honey glaze. | $5.75 |
| Seasonal Greens | Fresh steamed green vegetables with a splash of lemon and olive oil. | $5.95 |
| Buttery Garlic Bread | Warm bread brushed with garlic butter and herbs. | $4.50 |
Desserts
Don Leon’s Highlands offers a dessert menu that is both indulgent and reflective of the region’s culinary heritage. From traditional Scottish sweets to modern creations, each dessert is a perfect way to end your meal.
| Dessert | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Cranachan | A traditional dessert made with whipped cream, honey, fresh raspberries, toasted oats, and a splash of whisky. | $9.50 |
| Sticky Toffee Pudding | Warm sponge cake soaked in toffee sauce, served with vanilla ice cream. | $8.95 |
| Highland Berry Cheesecake | Creamy cheesecake infused with berries from the highlands, on a buttery biscuit base. | $9.75 |
| Spiced Apple Crumble | Baked apple crumble with cinnamon and nutmeg, served warm with custard. | $8.50 |
| Chocolate Fondant | Rich molten chocolate cake served with raspberry coulis and cream. | $10.25 |
“Desserts at Don Leon’s Highlands are the perfect finale – decadent, comforting, and crafted with passion.” – Sweet Eats Journal
Beverages
The beverage selection at Don Leon’s Highlands is designed to pair exquisitely with the menu offerings. From fine wines and local whiskies to fresh juices and artisan teas, the drink list caters to all preferences.
| Beverage | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Highland Single Malt Whisky | A selection of aged whiskies from local distilleries, served neat or with water. | $12.00 – $25.00 |
| Red & White Wines | A curated list of regional and international wines, available by glass or bottle. | $8.00/glass |
| Artisan Herbal Teas | Locally blended herbal teas, including heather, mint, and chamomile varieties. | $4.50 |
| Fresh Highland Apple Juice | Cold-pressed apple juice made from locally grown apples. | $5.00 |
| Craft Beers | A rotating selection of craft beers brewed in the highlands and beyond. | $6.00 – $8.00 |
Chef’s Specialties
Don Leon’s Highlands takes pride in the chef’s specialties, which are seasonal dishes showcasing the chef’s creativity and the finest local ingredients. These specials change regularly and are highly recommended for those seeking something unique and memorable.
| Dish | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Venison Wellington | Succulent venison wrapped in puff pastry with mushrooms and herbs, served with a red wine jus. | $32.00 |
| Seaweed-Crusted Cod | Fresh cod fillet coated in local seaweed, pan-seared and served with a lemon beurre blanc. | $27.50 |
| Highland Wild Boar Ragout | Slow-cooked wild boar ragout with root vegetables and fresh herbs, served over buttered noodles. | $29.00 |
“The chef’s specials are a testament to Don Leon’s commitment to innovation while honoring tradition.” – Gourmet Highlands
Dietary Information & Special Requests
Don Leon’s Highlands is committed to catering to diverse dietary needs. Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options are available across the menu.
Guests are encouraged to inform staff of any allergies or specific dietary requirements to ensure a safe and enjoyable dining experience.
Sample Dietary Options:
- Vegetarian Haggis – Vegan and gluten-free upon request.
- Wild Mushroom Soup – Can be made dairy-free.
- Seasonal Salads – Many can be customized for allergies or preferences.
Additionally, the kitchen is happy to accommodate special requests and tailor dishes to guests’ tastes whenever possible.
About Don Leon’s Highlands
Don Leon’s Highlands is more than just a restaurant; it’s a culinary destination that celebrates the rich heritage and natural beauty of the highlands. Founded by Chef Leon MacGregor, the establishment combines his passion for authentic Scottish cuisine with a modern approach to cooking.
Every ingredient is chosen with care, emphasizing sustainability and support for local farmers and producers. The ambiance is warm and inviting, offering guests an experience that is both elegant and relaxed.
“Dining at Don Leon’s Highlands is like taking a flavorful journey through the heart of Scotland’s culinary landscape.” – The Highland Gazette
Conclusion
Whether you are a local seeking new tastes or a traveler eager to experience the true flavors of the highlands, Don Leon’s Highlands offers a menu that is rich, varied, and thoughtfully prepared. From the first bite to the last sip, the menu reflects a dedication to quality, tradition, and innovation.
Discover the essence of the highlands through every dish and enjoy an unforgettable dining experience at Don Leon’s Highlands.
