Dolphin Cafe — Restaurant in Scotland

Having visited The Dolphin in Peterhead recently, I feel compelled to warn others about what to expect. Despite its local reputation, this establishment delivers neither the quality nor the value that fish and chip lovers deserve.The chips are a particular disappointment. Instead of the thick-cut, golden fries one hopes for, I was served greasy, limp chips that lacked any crunch or flavour. Others have experienced similar issues, suggesting poor oil and sloppy preparation are sadly now routine here.

Equally underwhelming were the so-called “mushy peas.” Instead of proper, slow-cooked marrowfat peas, what came out was watery, insipid, and almost certainly derived from a powder mix rather than fresh produce. It’s dishonest to label this side dish as “mushy peas”—it let the whole meal down.

The fish, supposedly the main attraction, simply did not justify the price. Portions were small, and the fish itself was bland with a heavy, oily batter that quickly lost any sense of crispness. Considering the cost, you are paying a premium for something that falls below the standards of many other local chippies—and plenty of reviewers have echoed this frustration about both size and pricing.

The problems here extended beyond the food. Service was inattentive and the general atmosphere cold. There was no sense of welcome, and cleanliness in both eating and preparation areas left much to be desired—sticky tables and crumbs were left unchecked, and staff appeared indifferent.

Past visitors may remember The Dolphin more fondly, but current standards have slipped dramatically. Many recent reviews point to declining food quality and careless service, making it clear this is not just a one-off bad day. In summary, overpriced, greasy fish, undercooked chips, processed peas, and a negative experience all round add up to a meal best avoided.

Save your money and look elsewhere in Peterhead if you want real, satisfying fish and chips with proper...

Very expensive for all it was.

Main meal came with salad or onion rings incuded as a side, but if you want peas, its extra. They didnt have mushy peas anyway, so that was disappointing. Table condiment was cheap 'red-sauce' not Heinz or similar which i regretted putting on my expensive supper.

Fish was nice, though but no touches like a lemon wedge. Chips were average

We would have ordered a pudding but no one returned to our table so we just payed at the till and left.

I'd prefer the Ashvale any day based on this visit.

All the staff seemed to be in training or new to working in a restaurant

Atmosphere is probably good when its busy. Nice and clean. Decor is bright and...

Went here on recommendation; FOOD: I had double fillet haddock with chips, peas, coleslaw, bread and butter. The fish was outstanding! Lovely and light crispy batter, and cooked to perfection. Chips were non-greasy. 10/10 SERVICE: Good service from the pleasant waitress. 9/10 DECOR: Loved the model fishing boats dotted around. Toilets were clean and fresh. 8/10 X-FACTOR: Great location, down by the harbour, with fishing boats in view from the windows. Amazingly, when we went at 1530 on a Thursday we had the place to ourselves. 9/10 VFM: Great value! £38 for 2 people, including soft drinks, bread and butter. 10/10

Thoroughly recommended....