Columba's Bay Diner in Argyll & Bute

Forget the silly reviews from people who have hardly reviewed any places. I only post reviews for Pam se I recommend and this is one of them. First thanks to the team and especially the lady who described her self as also a travel agent in the week. She made us so welcome and enhanced our visit. My French friend described the venison hot dogs as the best he had ever tried and he had previously lived in the US. I think the waitress may have mistakenly thought he was joking when he said it but he wasn’t. He continued mentioning it well into the afternoon. My BLT was perfect. And I decided to take a fruit scone home to saviour after our bike ride. I normally judge a place by its scones and these fruit scones were absolutely packed with fruit. Best I have had in quite some time. Clean loos and pleasant outside area. All in all thanks we real,y enjoyed it.

Sadly this place didn't live up to the reviews I read. We came for lunch and ordered the venison burger special and minestrone soup. The soup was nothing special but tasted ok. The venison burger was so dry it was inedible. We ordered a piece of Victoria sponge to have instead. When that arrived it was so hard you could hit the fork off it and the fork bounced back up. We were then told it was vegan and that's why, having not been told it was vegan in the first place, and I've never had a vegan cake that was as dry and hard as that. We ended up being refunded for the burger and cake which was fair. It was a disappointment really. And at £5.50 for a chocolate milkshake which was about 50% froth it was as expensive bad experience.

Ordered two bacon rolls and struggled to eat cheapest roll that which was awful could lift without it falling apart. Bacon mostly fat which appeared to be partly cooked. Removed all the fat and left with hardly anything. It’s not to my taste, place very unclean and needs a good scrub. The owners appear to prefer dogs to humans. Not too happy with constantly giving dogs treats then serving food without washing their hands. Needless to say I’ll not be back.

A nice mint ice cream and two coffee. Americano and one cappuccino. Around 10 pounds. Not cheap but ok. Service is lovely good crew. Nice ambiance.

Appalling, loathsome and hateful. On entry the atmosphere of admissibility was scarce, when asked if we would receive a small amount of food to quench our mountaineering thirst (with 45 minutes to spare til close) we were rudely denied. To quote an older gentleman said “we’re about to close” stated with hatred. I am completely appalled by the manners of the staff and it quite frankly disgusted both me and my family. Whilst spite was brewing we chose to prosper through, on re-entry into the property, to return our used bottles, there was an ominous energy of fury. Overall, i would avoid this area at all costs, whilst Oban is a peaceful, beautiful and welcoming town, we found the complete opposite.Shame.

Called in to break a journey and let the granddaughters run riot. We were quickly served with tea and coffees and ice cream did the kids. All the staff we spoke to were polite and friendly. The kids happily played on the small swing/chute combo while we chatted and browsed the free books on offer. Also dog friendly. £16 for tea, 2 coffees and 2 ice creams so about average. I'd go back.

Great family cafe now known as the Racer Café and under new management..

This has become a weekly haunt for me. Its also called the Racers Diner and has an American country theme. Lovely coffee!

We visited in 2021 when the cafe had its opening day. At the time it showed a lot of potential. Went back this year and it was a disappointment. We chose rolls with Lorne sausage and potato scone. It took ages to be served - one person in front and longer for the food to be brought to us. The food, wasn't bad but it wasn't great either. The cake was nice, but a bit expensive. Tea and coffee was meh... The hot-rod/biker theme needs updating, its less than it was when the place opened and feels a bit shabby now. Overall, the experience left us underwhelmed and we wont be stopping in future.

Stopped here on our way home as we are usually on a motorbike and there are few cafes on this route. What a wee gem Cafe Racer is - great decaf lattes and we both enjoyed the fresh crumble slices we chose. Toilets are spotless and baby changing was well equipped. Seats were pink and quirky like an American diner. Great hard standing car park for motorbikes. Recommended to all bikers. Never visited before but will definitely be back 😀

Visited in May this year - had been previously when it was the Columba's Bay Diner and we were really looking forward to the warm welcome and the vegetarian cooked breakfasts we'd previously enjoyed. Unfortunately - it couldn't have been further away from our previous experience of the place.... Firstly a rather unfriendly person came out and told us in a very abrupt way to repark our motorhome - which had never been an issue previously. This on the premise that in an hour - the carpark was going to be full. Hubby duly obliged and moved to where we were told. Reception inside wasn't that much better and for the first time in about 10 years I was looked at as if I was some sort of weirdo when I asked about their vegetarian options. Honestly - in 2022 I was shocked the best they could offer was macaroni cheese????? I've been vegetarian/pescatarian for 34 years and the last time I was in a restaurant with such a limited offering for someone who wasn't a meat eater was in the early 1980's.... appalling... Given the increase in availability of vegetarian and vegan offerings and the trend towards a plant based diet in the last few years you'd think a roadside diner on a route like that would be prepared to cater for those dietary requirements with a good grace - not brush people off. They could seriously take a leaf out of the book of TJ's Diner in Tyndrum - american diner with great vegan and vegetarian options and a friendlier welcome..... All in - would not recommend as I rather suspect the macaroni probably wouldn't have been made with vegetarian suitable cheese if the rest of the menu was anything to go by. A good venue spoiled.....real shame. Just as an aside - we passed about an hour later on our way back from a good lunch elsewhere and the carpark was pretty much empty.....hmmmmmmmmm??

Cycled here amidst the rain and wind. Welcoming host, great coffee and cakes. Unpretentious, authentic diner with a relaxed vibe.

Not sure if the patron was having a bad day but my my he was a miserable soul. Greeted with "menu over there" and a pointed finger.. The young waitress obviously wasn't guided by her mentor, she was friendly and efficient.

Frosty reception staff, colder invite to sit outside with food purchased on a blustery day; as ‘it was closing time’ Why serve then ? The money’s attractive, yes ? What about the custom ? The most insipid beverages tasted in our lifetime … dull as ditchwater with stodgy stale cake slices Onich isn’t far if you are travelling towards Fort William, or Crainlarich if you are headed the Oban way

We hadn't visited since it became The Racer Cafe so decided to stop for lunch. The selection is very poor - soup, a hot dog and premade rolls sitting unwrapped in a fridge. The staff were friendly as we ordered at the counter but that was the only upside to an otherwise dire visit. It was freezing in the cafe as the door was wide open and the pleasant view was marred by the fact that the windowsill was covered in dust, debris and dead wasps. We couldn't decide what was drier - the atmosphere or our rolls. The milkshake looked cute but was an overpriced cup of squirty cream and cheap sprinkles. The place has potential as it is a nice location but we definitely won't be back!

Firstly the place looked like it needed a good clean. The floor was disgusting and the place was full of flies. The coffees and scones were unacceptable.

This little cafe is well worth a visit. It’s got great decor and you get a nice welcome! The food is simple but it’s ideal for a quick break on the road. Would recommend.

Very limited menu. Cold coffee, and stale roll.. Bacon, was like leather... Very disappointed... Do yourself a favour. Drive past, give Sybil, a wave, then proceed to Castle View, catering wagon. About 8 miles, towards, Fort William.... With breathtaking views, of Castle Stalker.... Food to die for, and cheaper.

A must try - lovely little place, beautifully decorated and the outside area is so nice, plenty picnic benches to be had. Our little one loved the kids picnic benches and park area, it was lovely to come somewhere quieter than ice cream places in Oban town. Ice cream and milkshake were delicious. Lovely staff and quick service we will definitely return! Thank you!

We called in after seeing very good reviews on Facebook. We were met by friendly staff who cleared a table for us. The menu is very limited, the hot dog came in a roll with a small pot of jalapeños and another of grated cheese, 2 sachets of mustard and ketchup chucked on beside it. No onions, no garnish and took quite a while to appear. When it did we had to remind the waitress about our drink order. Sandwiches were pre made and in a display fridge, no offer of making anything fresh. Not a patch on the previous cafe.

Called in for cranberry and oranges scones and coffee, absolutely great little place and good home cooked foord

Dropped in early passing through, lovely clean quiet spot with great decor( cafe racer/diner vibe) fantastic crispy bacon rolls and some very good coffee. Lovely friendly staff and clean facilities. A definite stop for the weary/hungry/thirsty traveller.

Under new management. Lovely staff, fantastic food and great view. We came for breakfast and were not disappointed. The menu is short but well thought out and a good selection of American diner classics. The milkshakes were amazing. We'll be back if we're in the area again!

What an amazing place, lovely staff and very reasonably priced food, this little gem deserves lots of praise, look forward to my next visit to this place, would highly recommend.

Good service,good food,plenty of parking.

The breakfast was slightly over done

Excellent service and food, Changed name to Not Just Desserts

Fabulous staff, great food, just what's needed. Thank You..

Enjoyed a lovely ham and cheese Panini

Friendly, nice view, nice coffee and nice gifts.

Petit restaurant très agréable, paisible et avec du goût. On y mange bien, l'accueil est chaleureux et le cadre est superbe, je recommande !

Lovely place, the owner is an adorable and joyful person, located near a beautiful loch. Great food and choice of drinks and home baked cakes. Highly recommended

Petit café familial très sympathique, peu onéreux et excellent !

Had a young girl working there who hadn't a clue what she was doing or what a smile was. Ordered tea for two and one fruit scone and she served tea for one and two scones. Either needs replacing or some training.

Excellent, we'll go there again. Good service, nice welcoming atmosphere. Fresh vegetables tasty fish. Lovely gf sticky toffe pudding.

This place is unassuming, but provided the best meal I've had in Scotland as of yet! The 5 bean chili was excellent, and the incredibly accommodating staff even took it to the next level by asking if I'd like to add nacho chips, and cheese. Little did they know, this is my all-time favorite dish. But that's not the only reason this place deserves 5 Stars, the quality of the meal and the kindness of the people working here are what makes this place stellar.

Been here year after year and never fails to deliver this year felt I had to say something. Food and drinks were their usual high standards and the new owner ( didn’t catch her name ) was friendly and was up to my sense of humour which was great we had a laugh and felt really welcomed..... just make sure my ice is ready for next time 🤣👍🏼

Food Very basic but tasty. Young man serving helpful and very friendly. Toilets very clean.

Stopped for tea and cakes all very good and good prices may have to stop off for breakfast one day looked good on the menu

Cheap tea bags, so pot of tea was tasteless.. Toast came with bowl of cheap margarine, and pot of cheap jam. One slice of toast was the bread crust. A couple waited over half an hour for their cooked breakfast The premises was bright and clean and warm. Toilets clean. Service slow. Quality mediocre. Coffee was good. Prices good.

Under new ownership and being renamed Not Just Deserts. Food is excellent staff friendly and make you very welcome

We called on our cycle ride from The camping and caravan club site at Barcaldine which was a 20 min ride away. We had a warm welcome from the owner and staff.We ordered a coffee and a absolutely yummy fresh baked scone. Will definitely be back to try more of their menu with family and friends.

Good service with tasty menus and fast service good prices and value for money

Stopped off for a quick bite on the way back down to England..... Could very happily have spent the afternoon eating instead. All the reviews are accurate and true. DO NOT DRIVE PAST ! You won't be disappointed. Great food, great host and great views.

Nice place for meals, coffie, tea

Popped in here for lunch to see if the reviews were true after a working nearby. They certainly were and John’s generosity went above and beyond. The noodle soup was delicious and it was refreshing to give something a little different. Add to this a beautiful location and it makes for a perfect stop. Looking forward to Popped in here for lunch to see if the reviews were true after a working nearby. They certainly were and John’s generosity went above and beyond. The noodle soup was delicious and it was refreshing to give something a little different. Add to this a beautiful location and it makes for a perfect stop. Looking forward to visiting again to try out some of the other specials. Cards not taken yet - make sure you have cash!Tip-top - can’t recommend the place highly enough.

Good food, friendly host and lovely view

My wife and I enjoyed a very tasty meal at the Columba's bay dinner while on holiday in the Appin area recently.We both chose from the specials menu. I had smoked salmon and cream cheese salad and my wife had Aberdeen Angus beef casserole. The smoked salmon salad was garnished with capers which really added to the flavour. My wife said the beef casserole was tender and full of flavour.The diner sits back off the road with ample parking in front of it. We received a friendly welcome and the decor and surroundings are very pleasant.While we were there a batch of fresh made scones were taken from the oven. They looked and smelled so delicious we bought two to have later! They did not disappoint! All in all a great wee place!

A lovely little place. Great food and most genial host.

Had homemade steak pie one of the best delicious.

We nearly did not stop here but glad we did ...the owner/chef was outside making up some new hanging baskets as we drove in ...we decided to have some coffee and cake ...john also sat down with us and what a really nice guy ...the scones were definately home made the views from the cafe were.lovely ...its quite easy to miss this place as u drive past but if u did it wd be your loss ...as the host the place and the food excellent.and reasonable ...whilst we were in some.people ordered fish and chips and it looked and smelled delish ...next time we passby we will def spend more time ...

We recently heard that Columbas Bay was opening for evening dinners and knew we had to go along and try it out. I'm so glad we did! Honestly by far the best curry I have ever tasted, the food was so tasty. It was so refreshing to taste food that's 100% homemade (none of that frozen stuff). The presentation was beautiful too! Will definitely be back! and probably very soon!

Good quality food in nice surroundings with beautiful views. Friendly staff. Excellent service.

A culinary masterpiece. John is a chef with passion. Liz gives such caring service. The Seabass and Scottish Salmon was mouthwatering. Micheline star Quality. Do not drive by without stopping.

As locals we have driven past this place so many times but had never had time to stop, i'm so glad we finally did! A stunning setting with fantastic views, we had planned to have a quick coffee but ended up staying for lunch which was lovely, beautifully presented and tasty! A proper latte (which is hard to find locally) and even forced ourselves to taste homemade scone between us afterwards! We will 100% be back again - our only regret is that we hadnt popped in sooner!

Just lucky, I decided I would pull over at the next cafe as I was driving after I got off the ferry in Oban. This diner is shiny clean and they were so friendly. The steak pie special was super flavorful and so tender it really did melt in my mouth. Only plans for dinner kept me from sampling one of the gorgeous sweets in the case. Also got great travel advice before I went out the door!

From the outside not very special, but wow...this man went out of his way for us. A shame we were in a hurry to get to the boat, but very friendly to the children! And the lunch tasted very good as well.

We stumbled upon this place when we were caught in an accident and had a few hours to kill. JoHn was so accommodating and kept the restaurant open for us a few extra hours. We had the best soup and scones of our whole trip! Very reasonably priced and very friendly. Thank you for everything!

Firstly, the homemade soup (lentil) was beautiful. A simple soup that so many get wrong, but not here. Their steak pie is also wonderful! Last but not least the staff are friendly and welcoming :) We shall be back :)

Tasty cooked all day breakfasts, coffees and good friendly service 👍😀

Great all day breakfasts, coffee and service. Good selection of cakes too. Views and outdoor area will be lovely in the summer 😀☕👍

We visited the diner twice in the week we were on holiday in Benderloch. The owner was really friendly and the food was delicious. He has recently taken the business over and he’s doing a great job. Well worth visiting.

The journey from Ballater to Campbeltown is long, too long when the weather isn't great, and we were in need of a rest when we came upon the Diner. Not imposing from the outside, but with friendly service, a good choice of light snacks, spotlessly clean throughout and with great attention to the smallest detail, we were made to feel most welcome and glad that we had stopped. Whether we will travel the same road again, I have no idea, but if we do I know where we are going to eat.

called in for first time and was impressed with the changes made , food very

We had been driving for hours and with lots of places closed for the end of the year, we were pleased to see this place was still open. We were warmly welcomed by John who went out of his way to accommodate our needs, even preparing a meal for me that was not on the menu and it was not only delicious but beautifully presented. We definitely feel it will be worth the journey to come and eat here again on our next trip to Scotland.

Service is excellent, hot chocolate is very good, we only had toasties, came with salad, really enjoyed it.

Fantastic lunch had chicken and cheese and chips. Well worth the money and a place not to be missed. Excellent customer service first class. Keep it the hard work

It's a lovely, welcoming, clean and bright diner, with plenty of parking and great views.

Stopped here for a bite to eat and it was fab , food was amazing and reasonable priced the staff are friendly and helpful

Walking along the cycle route from benderloch village to the sealife centre by the a828 I stumbled upon this café. Café is light and airy inside, has a deck for outdoor seating with a view of loch in distance. Owners are very cheerful and lovely. Food is good, very tasty and the portions are generous. It is also reasonably priced, I had a meal, a dessert and 2 soft drinks for £12 (it good value considering some of the prices paid in other places for average tasting food). So if your cycling along the route, or driving along the a828 road heading toward or from barcaldine stop in, it a good place to take a rest stop and eat.

Stopped here out of curiosity as we were staying just up the road at Appin. We usually either head to Poppies or Roxies in Oban for breakfast but this was on our doorstep. I can remember the building being disused last time we were here so its great to see it being utilised again. Lovely people running it, so very warm and welcoming, the cheese and ham toasties we had were delicious, hot enough to start the cheese melting but cool enough to eat without scalding the mouth. Spot on. The coffee was also excellent. We shall certainly stop here again, they deserve to thrive as a no nonsense diner with a great view of the Loch.

My friends and I were the first to visit to the dinner on that day. We were just driving by, but in dire need of morning sustenance. The host and the cook in one person, offered us superb service and lovely breakfast, scrambled eggs and baguets. Lovely and very affordable place, friendly staff and very clean facilities. Highly recommended!

Was just driving past looking for a quick bite to eat, but had an experience I will never forget. The two owners, the two nicest people in Scotland, opened their doors passed closing time, cooked us (2 backpackers) 2 unbelievable gourmet pizzas. Sensing our minimal budget, the couple generously insisted on giving us the pizzas for free. If you're ever driving past, definitely stop by for a bite to eat.