The Silver Darling is a seafood restaurant situated at Pocra Quay, Aberdeen AB11 5DQ, United Kingdom. It is not part of a large chain and offers a unique dining experience.
What each source says
- Google 4.6 1,404
- Tripadvisor 4.5 1,182
Bar length is review volume, so you can see how much weight sits behind each score. Captured 2026-08-26.
What visitors single out
Liked
- Excellent Service Many diners have reported friendly, attentive, and professional staff who provide excellent service.
- Fresh, High-Quality Seafood The Silver Darling specializes in fresh, locally sourced seafood prepared with inventive and delicious dishes.
- Memorable Dining Experience The combination of delicious food, beautiful views, and attentive service creates a memorable and enjoyable dining experience.
- Special Occasion Destination The restaurant is perfect for celebrations, with staff willing to accommodate special requests like birthday desserts.
- Stunning Harbour Views Located at the tip of Aberdeen harbor, the restaurant offers panoramic views of the sea, passing ships, and even occasional dolphin sightings.
Criticised
- Hard to find location The restaurant can be difficult to find and is in a seemingly industrial area.
- Inconsistent Service While many praise the service, some have reported instances of inattentive or slow service, and occasional lack of friendliness.
- Portion Sizes Can Be Small Some diners have noted that portion sizes, especially for starters and main courses, can be small relative to the price.
- Potential for Overcooked Food A few diners have experienced overcooked dishes, which is disappointing given the restaurant's focus on seafood.
- Pricey Menu Dining at The Silver Darling can be expensive, making it better suited for special occasions than regular outings.
The longer read
The Silver Darling is a seafood restaurant located at the tip of Aberdeen harbor, offering panoramic ocean and harbor views. Many reviewers highlight the location and views as a major draw, with some reporting the opportunity to watch ships and even spot dolphins. The restaurant is considered suitable for special occasions due to its ambiance and pricing. Reservations are generally recommended, especially on weekends or holidays, as it is a popular establishment.
Many reviewers praise the seafood, particularly the fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Popular dishes include the crab soup, scallops, halibut, and seafood linguine. Several reviewers recommend the sticky toffee pudding for dessert. Some reviewers have noted that portion sizes can be small relative to the price.
The service receives mixed feedback. Many reviewers found the staff to be friendly, helpful, and attentive. However, some mention slow service or a lack of attentiveness at times. A few reviewers reported issues with specific dishes, such as overcooked fish or underwhelming starters.
Several reviewers mention that the restaurant is located on the first floor (second floor for US reviewers) accessible by stairs, which may pose a challenge for those with mobility issues; there may not be an elevator available. The restaurant is situated in an industrial area, but most agree that the food and views compensate for the location.
Some reviewers noted inconsistencies in food quality or portion sizes, indicating that the experience can vary. Overall, The Silver Darling is often described as a high-end restaurant with corresponding prices. Some found it expensive, while others felt it was worth the cost for the quality of the food, service, and views. A few reviewers mentioned that the windows could be cleaner to enhance the views. While some reviewers suggest the food is outstanding, others feel it's merely good, indicating a range of experiences.
A synthesis of published third-party reviews. Not written by Breaks.
Getting there
- Phone
- +44 1224 576229
- Website
- thesilverdarling.co.uk
| Mon | 12:00 - 14:00, 17:00 - 21:00 |
|---|---|
| Tue | 12:00 - 14:00, 17:00 - 21:00 |
| Wed | 12:00 - 14:00, 17:00 - 21:00 |
| Thu | 12:00 - 14:00, 17:00 - 21:00 |
| Fri | 12:00 - 21:00 |
| Sat | 12:00 - 21:00 |
| Sun | 12:00 - 20:00 |
Against the neighbourhood
Rated 4.6 against a median of 4.5 across the 51 places to eat we hold for Aberdeen, where the most-reviewed is Miller & Carter Aberdeen.
Still deciding?
- What is the signature or most popular dish at The Silver Darling in Aberdeen?
- What is the dining atmosphere and setting like at The Silver Darling restaurant?
- Does The Silver Darling offer vegetarian or vegan menu options for diners?
- What is the typical price range for a meal at The Silver Darling in Aberdeen?
- Is it necessary to make a reservation in advance at The Silver Darling, especially on weekends?
What this page cannot tell you
- Descriptions and review summaries are supplied by the source index and are reproduced as published; they are not independently verified by Breaks.
- Ratings and review counts are point-in-time snapshots and drift constantly. Check the venue's own site or the rating provider for the current figure.
- Opening hours change seasonally and at short notice. Confirm with the venue before travelling.
- Category labels come from the source index and are occasionally wrong — a venue may be filed under a type that does not match how it trades.
- Straight-line distances understate real walking distance, especially where a river or railway sits between two points.