When we first opened the doors of North Gateway Cafe in 2021, our offering was simple: good coffee, homemade cake, and a warm place to stop on your journey north. Fast forward a few years and things look a little different – our brunch menu has a loyal following, our mac ’n’ cheese has a bit of a reputation, and we’re a firm favourite for locals, travellers, and walkers alike.
Why “North Gateway”?
The name comes from our location – we’re the gateway to the Highlands, right on the A9 just south of Inverness. Look closely at our logo and you’ll see it’s shaped to reflect both the outline of our building and the mountains that surround us. It’s a little nod to where we’ve come from, and where we’re heading.
Local Flavours, Local Partnerships
We’re proud to keep things local. Our produce is sourced close to home, and we’ve even teamed up with the Inverness Coffee Roasting Company to create our very own Northern Corries blend – a coffee roasted exclusively for us. Pair that with one of our cakes (which only seem to get bigger and more indulgent each year), and you’ve got yourself a true taste of the Highlands.
More Than Just a Cafe
Of course, we love serving up stonebaked pizzas on a Friday night or brewing the perfect flat white, but North Gateway is more than a cafe. We want it to be a place where people meet, relax, and connect. At busy times, our temporary marquee goes up to give us extra space, and it’s also available for private hire.
Looking to the future, we’re planning to expand our takeaway service and create space for local crafters and small businesses. Imagine a mini hub just outside Inverness – a place where you can grab a coffee, pick up something handmade, and maybe even chat to the maker who created it. That’s what we’re working towards.
A Walk in the Woods
If you’re heading for a walk in Daviot Woods we are in the perfect spot to start or finish your adventure. We are based in the same car park – just over a bit – as where you would park for the Daviot Woods. Sit at the window – you might even catch sight of our resident red squirrels while you sip your coffee.
What’s Next?
We’ve come a long way since our early days, but we’re only just getting started. With plans to grow north, expand our offerings, and continue building a little business community here, the future feels exciting.
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