Café Artysans

A café with a purpose

Calman Trust works with young people in the Highlands who face personal challenges, helping them towards independent living and work, and has supported more than 6,000 since 1998. The café is part of that work, so a bowl of soup here does more than fill a gap. Calman Trust also runs Club Artysans on Thursday evenings, offering young people art activities and a shared meal.

What to eat

The Cullen skink, a creamy smoked haddock soup from the north-east coast, is the dish people mention. Beyond that, expect freshly made soups, toasties, sandwiches, salads and homemade cakes. Artysans To Go handles takeaway, and the café also does catering orders. Vegetarian options feature among the soups and sandwiches, and the takeaway suits a picnic by the river.

Finding it

Strothers Lane runs off Academy Street, a couple of minutes from Inverness station, so it is an easy first stop off the train. The Victorian Market is just round the corner for a browse after lunch. The café reopened in 2024 after a refurbishment following flood damage. Kier Construction and local firms supported the refurbishment as part of their community work.

Highlights

• Run by Calman Trust, a youth charity
• Known for Cullen skink
• Takeaway via Artysans To Go
• Minutes from Inverness station

Good to know

• Purchases support Calman Trust's work with young people.
• Takeaway and catering orders are available.

Frequently asked questions